Seto has a long history of ceramics. In Japan, the term Setomono (lit. Seto's things) means ceramics.
During the Edo period, Tamakichi Kato, brought new methods of ceramic production to Seto and founded his own style. Eventually he was patronized by the clan of Owari. He is considered to be the father of Seto ceramics.
Seto is home to two train lines, the primary being the '''Meitetsu-Seto Line'''. This train is easily recognizable by its bright red paint job. It runs regularly between Owari-Seto and Sakae.
If coming from Nagoya station there are two ways to reach Seto. The first way you start out on the '''JR Chuo Line''' to Ozone. At Ozone you change from JR to the Meitetsu and you take the Meitetsu to Seto. The second way is to again take the JR Chuo Line, but instead of disembarking at Ozone continue riding to Kozoji station. At Kozoji change to the Aichi Loop Line and get off at Shin-Seto.
Please note that most of the sites and ceramics shops are located near Owari-Seto station and not Shin-Seto.
Seto is small enough that you can walk to most of the attractions from either Owari-Seto station or from Shin-Seto station. However there are a variety of buses that will usually run to or near further destinations.
Seto was part of the location of the Expo 2005 held in both Seto and Nagakute. The attractions are mostly gone, but the grounds are still there and have been converted into a park.
'''Aichi Prefectural Ceramic Museum''' 234 Minamiyamaguchi-cho, Seto-shi Tel: 0561-84-7474 This museum is home to a large collection ancient works of the Jomon era and ancient ceramic kilns. It can be reached by taking a Meitetsu bus from Owari-Seto station to Touji Shiryoukan. 9:30am - 4:30 pm last entry is at 4. Closed on Mondays.
'''Seto Ceramics and Glass Art Center''' 81-2 Minami-Nakanokiri-cho, Seto-shi Tel; 0561-97-1001. This is a small art center which has a delightful display of glass and ceramic art made by local artists. It also sports a nice cafe. 10:00am - 6:00pm. Closed Wednesdays
'''Kamagami Shrine''' This shrine dedicated to the founder of Seto ceramics, Tamakichi Kato, is found on a steep hill behind Owari-Seto station. It takes about a 5-10 minute walk to get there, and yields a nice view of the city. There is also a monument dedicated to those from Seto who died during the Second World War.
'''Kurufuku Manekineko Festival''' This is a festival for the "manekineko" or the beckoning cat which can be seen in almost every shop, restaurant and other retail area. Hundreds of these statues are put on display and other exhibits can be seen as well. Usually held on September 29.
'''Setomono Festival''' On the second Saturday and Sunday of every September the ceramicists of the city and other regions turn out to sell their wares at a discount price. There are thousands of pieces that can be bought for almost any purpose. Great place and time to get authentic Japanese souvenirs.
'''Kinchan''' Is a great little izakaya (Japanese style bar) on the opposite side of Shin-Seto station from Valor. Once you go down the stairs of the station take a right go about 50 meters and this corner bar will be on your left. The best time to get there is around 4:30 or 5 as it gets crowded quickly. Try the yakitori and the chicken hearts.
'''Sapporo Ramen''' (_D_y___[____) This is a small and cozy ramen shop next to the Apita store in Owari-Seto. Miso ramen is the only type you can get, but it makes a hearty meal especially in the winter. Expect to pay about 750 yen per bowl.
'''Party Seto''' Directly next to Owari-Seto station this somewhat recent addition to Seto (built in 2004) boasts numerous restaurants. If you're not sure where to go or are just tired from touring you should try this place.
'''Ginza Shopping Street''' Named after the famed district in Tokyo this small and quaint street offers a look into pre-shopping mall Japan. It's got several restaurants and old fashioned shops. If you're interested in getting Japanese style items. This is the place to go. There is a great soft serve green tea ice cream shop here too.
Ceramics can be found an many of the shops that line the main street of Owari-Seto. Ceramics and glass works can be also purchased in the Seto Ceramics and Glass Center.