Japan has no shortage of charming ryokans, or traditional inns but people pay extra attention when Adrian Zecha, the founder of Aman Resorts, puts his name behind one. Located on the remote island of Ikuchijima in the Japanese Inland Sea, Azumi Setoda is the first property in the Indonesian hotelier’s Azumi line.
Azumi Setoda is the reinspired family estate of the Horiuchi family, a prominent lineage of affluent merchants who had thrived in the salt production and shipping sectors in Setoda. Embracing the legacy of the 140-year-old structure, the residence retains its precious architectural essence, while the guest rooms have been thoughtfully fashioned into contemporary and soothing spaces. The dining experience is centered around French cuisine crafted from the finest Setouchi ingredients, presented on tableware that has been passed down through generations of the Horiuchi family.
The property balances tradition and modernity to offer the ryokan hospitality experience to the contemporary traveler.
Accommodation
There are four room types in the two story guest pavilion, which is built around a kakine-framed courtyard. Through a thoughtful blend of traditional ryokan comforts and contemporary amenities, guests can wind down in a homey atmosphere equipped with a cypress bathtub in each room.
The rooms are made with cedar, cypress, washi, and granite, creating comfort in this contemporary expression of sukiya style design. All rooms have double beds, but two can be joined to create a king size bed upon request.
Dining
Azumi Setoda’s dining service features vegetables from Setoda and other areas in the Setouchi region, and dishes using French methods, served with plates inherited from the Horiuchi family head of the family. Azumi Setoda sources as many ingredients used in its dining service as possible from within 50 km, which is as far as a person can walk in a day.
Because of this distance, Chef Akita personally visits the production areas and speaks with every producer to deepen his understanding of the ingredients. He then uses cooking methods and flavors that bring out the best in the ingredients to create a dining experience that is “unique to the region.”
Experiences
Guests at Azumi Setoda are treated to a wealth of cultural experiences. In addition to cycling around the islands, picking lemons, and exploring historical, artistic and cultural sites, they may also venture out to sea for a sunset cruise or fishing.
The Shimanami Kaido is a must-visit for cycling enthusiasts and attracts riders from around the globe. This guided tour covers 50 kilometers from Onomichi to Setoda (Ikuchi Island) and the Tatara Bridge, which connects to Ehime Prefecture.
In addition to the cycling adventures, guests can explore lemon fields where an organic farmer in Setoda has cultivated healthy lemons for over 30 years. They are also invited to participate in the Boleega Project, where they can learn more about the manufacturing process of Fukuyama denim and craft their own custom garment, all while engaging directly with world-class sewing artisans.
