Shikoku
Nestled between Honshu to the north, Kyushu to the west and the expansive Pacific Ocean surrounding its southern shores, Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s four main islands. However, what the island lacks in size, it more than makes up for in rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, delicious cuisine and encounters with locals eager to share their stories from this lesser-visited corner of Japan.
Visit Ehime Prefecture to marvel at Japan’s oldest onsen which inspired the world-famous anime Spirited Away, and learn about the craftsmanship of candle and papermaking which have been carried out here for centuries. Continue on to Kagawa Prefecture to admire one of Japan’s most beautiful traditional gardens, slurp up some tasty regional udon noodles and climb the stairs to Kotohira Shrine for sweeping views towards the island-dotted Seto Inland Sea. With its impressively long coastline, Kochi Prefecture is home to dramatic ocean views and bustling seafood markets. A hike through the picturesque countryside with its ubiquitous citrus trees will offer an insight to Kochi’s unique irrigation systems, and crossing one of the infamous “sinking bridges” spanning the Shimanto river is a thrilling experience. Over in Tokushima Prefecture, the mystical Iya Valley with its peculiar vine bridges is the perfect place for a secluded ryokan (Japanese inn) stay to enjoy the area’s onsen (hot springs), and the power of nature can be witnessed in Naruto where massive tidal whirlpools are created in the straits between islands.
All this, and we haven’t even started talking about Shikoku’s outstanding festivals where the streets are transformed into a sea of people dancing in colourful costumes, or the famous Shikoku Ohenro, a pilgrimage trail connecting 88 temples and encircling the entire island.
Shikoku’s location also makes it ideal to combine with the Shimanami Kaido cycling route which we have covered here, or an overnight stay on the art islands of Naoshima and Teshima which you can learn more about here.
Ritsurin Garden
Featured in the Michelin Green Guide, Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu is one of Japan’s loveliest traditional gardens. With no less than six different ponds, 1000 pine trees, several pavilions and a tea house, an abundance of flowers and an iconic bridge, this peaceful spot is sure to provide an unforgettable experience in any season.
Awaodori Festival & Kaikan
Amongst Japan’s many summer festivals, Tokushima’s Awaodori is by far the most famous. Every year in August, thousands of people gather to watch or join in on the so-called “Fool’s Dance” where people in colourful costumes take up the streets and stages around town. For those not able to visit Tokushima during the festival, performances are held year-round at the Awaodori Kaikan.
Naruto whirlpools
Off the coast of Naruto, strong tidal currents move large volumes of water through the strait from the Pacific Ocean to the Seto Inland Sea and creates a powerful phenomenon known as whirlpools. The size of the whirlpools varies with the time of the day and year, and they can be observed from observatory decks or small boats.
Kochi Castle
This beautiful castle is a symbol of Kochi and one of only twelve original castles in Japan. The castle is unique because the ruling lords also used it as a residence, and its roof is decorated with statues of sea creatures, watching over the city. The castle is lit up at night on multiple occasions throughout the year, including the cherry blossom season.
Iya Valley
Nestled in Tokushima’s mountainous interior is this secluded valley, famous for its peculiar vine bridges spanning the river gushing through the gorge. Although most of the excellent hiking here requires a car to access the trailheads, Iya is a perfect spot for anyone who wants to wind down surrounded by beautiful nature. The valley features some amazing ryokan and outdoor hot springs, and in autumn it’s set ablaze with stunning foliage colours.
Matsuyama Castle
Located on a hill overlooking Matsuyama city and the Seto Inland Sea, Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan’s only twelve original castles that have survived war, earthquakes and fires. Easily accessible by ropeway and chairlift, this is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot with around 200 trees blooming in early spring. Photo by Visit Ehime.
Kotohira (Konpirasan)
Accessed by no less than 1368 stone steps, Konpirasan is not for the fainthearted, but once you reach this hillside shrine dedicated to sailors and seafarers, you will forget the strenuous ascent as the gorgeous scenery below unfolds before your eyes. The bustling shopping street at the bottom of the hill is a great place to sample some local sanuki udon. Photo by Kagawa Prefecture Tourism Association.
Yosakoi Festival
Held every year in August, Kochi’s Yosakoi Festival is a vibrant and energetic affair with large-scale dance performances held throughout the city over multiple days. Each dance team has its own unique style and striking costumes, but everyone is welcome to join in as the dancers proceed through the streets, accompanied by large ornamented music trucks.
Shimanto River
The crystal-clear Shimanto River starts in Shikoku’s mountainous interior and then winds its way through the countryside for 196 kilometres until it reaches the Pacific Ocean. The infamously narrow “sinking bridges” spanning the river are not to be missed, and activities like kayaking, SUP and cycling are very popular. Photo by Kochi Prefecture Tourism Convention Association.
Shikoku Ohenro
A twin trail to Camino de Santiago in Spain, the Shikoku Ohenro pilgrimage trail encircles the entire island and connects 88 temples of varying size. The full route is roughly 1200 kilometres long and takes about two months to complete, but there are many options to hike shorter sections of the trail, even just as a day trip. Photo by Tokushima City.
Dogo Onsen
Dogo Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns. The most famous bathhouse here is Dogo Onsen Honkan from 1894 which is said to have served as inspiration for the internationally acclaimed Ghibli anime film, Spirited Away. Inside the bathhouse is a maze of corridors and stairwells, and getting lost in here is almost as fun as enjoying the baths. Photo by Visit Ehime.
Shodoshima
With a distinct Mediterranean atmosphere, Shodoshima features pretty beaches and gorgeous coastal sceneries. The island is famous for its olive plantations and soy sauce production, and its mountainous interior is home to one of Japan’s most famed gorges, especially popular in autumn when the foliage changes colour to flaming red and orange.
Kochi Sunday Market
A weekly tradition for more than 300 years, Kochi’s Sunday market is one of the best ways to learn more about the area’s unique produce. More than 300 stalls line the street, selling everything from fruits and pickles to flowers, bonsai and crafts. Most things are handmade or home-grown, and the locals are happy to share the stories behind their products. Be sure to come hungry as there’s plenty of street food too!
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