"Explore the Seto Inland Sea islands and uncover the legacy of the Murakami Kaizoku, or ‘police pirates,’ who were pivotal naval forces ensuring safe sea navigation and trade. Visit the Murakami Kaizoku Museum to view over 1,300 artifacts, including fine arts and crafts from a notable family and items excavated from Noshima Castle. Try on traditional armor for a hands-on historical experience. For stunning views over the Seto Inland Sea, climb up to the 226-meter summit of Mt. Shirataki, passing more than 500 Arhat statues along the way. On Innoshima, historically known as a pirate stronghold, the Innoshima Suigun Castle displays an array of historical exhibits, including authentic pirate armor. The ideal route to explore these sites is by cycling the Shimanami Kaido, where you can also sample Houroku-yaki, a traditional seafood dish favored by the Murakami Kaizoku. This experience was curated in collaboration with Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs and inspired by the Japan Heritage Story #036 “The Murakami Kaizoku of the Geiyo Islands.”"