Guntû — Setouchi, Japan

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hotel guest bedroom with wooden floors, walls and ceiling, sliding doors with view out to water
(Image credit: TBC)

The Seto Inland Sea, or simply Setouchi, is without doubt one of Japan’s most picturesque destinations. A newly completed small luxury cruise ship – affectionately called Guntû after a small local crab – offers an unprecedented way to enjoy this magnificent seascape in style.

The boat has been designed by local architect Yasube Horibe more as a floating Japanese traditional ryokan inn than a conventional cruiser, and the ample use of wood throughout, paired with large windows framing the surrounding sea, creates a warm and welcoming interior.

Apart from the main dining room, where both Japanese and Western dishes are served, there is also a small sushi counter where freshly caught seafood delivered directly from local fishermen to the boat guarantees the quality of the nigiri. Guests can choose from six different routes around the Seto Inland Sea varying from one to three nights.

outside japanese style seating area on a hotel boat

(Image credit: TBC)

outside seating area on a hotel boat with wooden floors and decor

(Image credit: TBC)

wooden hot tub with view out over water

(Image credit: TBC)

seating area with wooden decor looking out window to water and mountains

(Image credit: TBC)

walk way along the side of a boat with wooden benches

(Image credit: TBC)

view of Guntû hotel on the water with a sea plane and view of mountains in the background

(Image credit: TBC)
Jens H Jensen

Originally from Denmark, Jens H. Jensen has been calling Japan his home for almost two decades. Since 2014 he has worked with Wallpaper* as the Japan Editor. His main interests are architecture, crafts and design. Besides writing and editing, he consults numerous business in Japan and beyond and designs and build retail, residential and moving (read: vans) interiors.