shikoku island tourist

Shikoku (�l��, literally "four countries") is Japan's fourth largest island, southwest of Japan's main island Honshu. True to its name, Shikoku is divided into four prefectures.

Top destinations in Shikoku

Naoshima ••

Kotohira •

Takamatsu •

Matsuyama •

Uchiko •

Kochi •

Iya Valley •

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Spellbinding Shikoku

Very recently, a colleague of mine asked me about Shikoku travel. Initially, the conversation was existential. Should I visit Shikoku? she inquired discreetly, as if she was speaking shameful words. I mean, why would anyone want to visit Shikoku anyway?

“It’s Japan’s smallest main island,” I explained to her, making sure to lead with low expectations, “but Shikoku packs an incredible punch.” I went on to mention not only the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage , but to note how many of Japan’s “original” castles are found here amid the island’s lush valleys and mystical mountain temples, and finally to make her mouth water as I described culinary treasures like Marugame’s beef udon soup and Kochi’s bonito served tataki style.

Needless to say she was sold, without reading a single Shikoku travel blog post I made. If you aren’t as easily convinced, I encourage you to continue reading.

Where to Stay in Shikoku

Generally speaking, I divide Shikoku accommodation into two categories: Simple city hotels, and onsen/ryokan in more rural settings. As far as the first category is concerned, properties such as Matsuyama’s Daiwa Roynet Hotel , Tokushima’s Hotel Clement and the Super Hotel in Takamatsu come to mind, although there are countless other examples of these properties in all of Shikoku’s cities.

Of course, this Shikoku travel guide doesn’t only stick to the cities, let alone the centers of said cities. If you want to stay just outside of Matsuyama or Takamatsu, for example, you can choose a property such as Yamatoya Besso in Dogo Onsen or Onyado Shikishima-kan in Konpira Onsen, respectively. In the wild Iya Valley, on the other hand, you’ll find a bevy of picturesque rural ryokan , most impressive among them Iya Onsen itself.

My Favorite Things to Do in Shikoku

Circle the whirlpool’s edge in tokushima.

My first taste of Shikoku tourism occurred in and around the city of Tokushima . After watching a captivating performance of the city’s Awa Odori dance tradition at the Awa Odori Kaikan performance hall, I took a day trip to Naruto Whirlpools , a truly bizarre natural phenomenon found underneath the bridge that connect Shikoku to Awaji Island and, eventually, the Honshu mainland. You can also peer in on Shikoku’s indigo dyeing heritage near Tokushima.

Savor History and Flame-Seared Fish in Kochi

If you move clockwise around Shikoku, your next stop will be the city of Kochi . At any rate, this is a spot that ranks near the top of any Shikoku guide, for a few main reasons. For one, 17th-century Kochi Castle is the first of Shikoku’s many original fortresses you’ll see. Next, savor delicious bonito seared tataki style within lively Hirome Market . If you have more than a couple days in Kochi, go inland to the Shimanto River or to kayak along Shikoku’s southern coast.

Scale Matsuyama Castle and Soak in Dogo Onsen

Continue your Shikoku travel in Matsuyama , Shikoku’s largest city. Here, in this metropolis of street cars and sea views, you can visit Matsuyama Castle , yet another 17th-century fortress, this one being particularly stunning during cherry blossom season . Alternatively, head southward toward Dogo Onsen , which is home to Japan’s oldest public bath house, and is walking distance from Ishite-ji , one of the easiest pilgrimage temples to access.

Discover Takamatsu: Gardens, Temples and Udon—Oh My!

If you read my sakura -season Shikoku blog in early 2019, you’ll remember how much I loved re-visiting Takamatsu , which I consider one of the most underrated cities in all of Japan. This was not only because of the immaculate Ritsurin Garden , but also because of day trips to mystical Kotohira-gu shrine and the city of Marugame , home not only to Marugame Castle but to some of the most delicious beef udon noodle soup in Japan.

Go Wild in the Lush Iya Valley

Assuming you travel Shikoku in a circle as I like to do, complete the circuit and ride the train (or drive your car) back eastward in the direct of the Iya Valley —stop at Awa-Ikeda station if you take the train. The Iya Valley is huge and not monolithic, but highlights include “pleasure boat” trips through the Oboke Gorge , harrowing walks across the Kazurabashi rope bridge and a soak in Iya Onsen itself.

Other Shikoku Destinations

This Shikoku travel guide is more or less comprehensive, but for the vast majority of trips to the island, you’re not going to be able to see everything. Here are some destinations I don’t consider essential, but you can visit if you have time:

• The “art island” of Naoshima  located just off Takamatsu
• Ozu , a castle town on the train route from Kochi to Matsuyama
• Cape Ashizuri , a scenic stretch of coastline south of Kochi
• Mount Tsurugi , which is within the Iya Valley but off the main tourist trail

How Long Should You Spend in Shikoku?

The topic of how many days in Shikoku can be a confounding one—especially if, like my colleague I mentioned at the beginning of this article, the idea of visiting Shikoku is rather novel to you. I speak to a lot of travelers who only plan to come here for a few days, which is madness. (Unless, of course, you simply plan to travel from Osaka to Tokushima, and then pass through the Iya Valley to Takamatsu before exiting Shikoku into Okayama prefecture. Fair enough!)

In general, I’d say the minimum amount of time you want to devote to a Shikoku itinerary is one week to 10 days, which will afford you at least a night in each major city, plus some time (potentially) in the Iya Valley. You should plan to travel longer if you plan to exclusively use Shikoku’s reliable but slow trains and buses; you can cover more ground a lot faster if you’re open to the idea of renting a car in Japan .

Other FAQ About Shikoku Travel

Is shikoku worth visiting.

Shihoku is absolutely worth visiting! From feudal castles in Kochi and Matsuyama, to Takamatsu’s Ritsurin Garden, to the unique indigo crafts of Tokushima, all aspects of Shikoku travel are singular and charming.

What is Shikoku known for?

Among Japanese, Shikoku is primarily known for the 88-temple junrei pilgrimage trail. This isn’t popular for most foreigners, however, which is why it doesn’t feature prominently in this Shikoku travel guide.

How do you get around Shikoku?

Local trains and buses are the primary way to get around Shikoku, although you can rent a car if you have an international driving permit or (IDP). No matter how you end up getting around, I’ll be frank: Transportation isn’t one of the more enjoyable elements of Shikoku tourism.

The Bottom Line

Even if you weren’t immediately convinced, I hope you’ve now warmed to the idea of Shikoku travel. Whether you stick to cities like Tokushima, Kochi, Matsuyama and Takamatsu, try to visit all the island’s original castles, get lost amid its wild nature or even try to undertake the Shikoku Junrei pilgrimage, this small Japanese island punches way above its weight. To be sure, while Shikoku for a week or 10 days makes for a perfect self-contained Japan trip for return travelers, you can also tack a few days here onto a larger Japan itinerary—yes, even if it’s your first country. No matter what sorts of destinations and experiences you seek, your Shikoku trip starts here.

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The birthplace of revered ascetic and founder of the Shingon Buddhist sect Kōbō Daishi (774–835), Shikoku (四国) is synonymous with natural beauty and the pursuit of spiritual perfection. It's home to the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku, Japan's most famous pilgrimage.

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Best things to do, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Shikoku. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

If you're travelling along Rte 439, it's not a matter of 'blink and you'll miss it', but blink, and blink again, because you may have a hard time…

Oku Iya Ni-jū Kazura-bashi

Away from the crowds and tour buses, the spectacular Oku Iya Ni-jū Kazura-bashi are two secluded vine bridges hanging side by side high over the river…

Konpira-san

Kagawa Prefecture

Konpira-san or, more formally, Kotohira-gū, was originally a Buddhist and Shintō temple dedicated to the guardian of mariners. It became exclusively a…

Kōchi-jō is one of just a dozen castles in Japan to have survived with its original tenshu-kaku (keep) intact. The castle was originally built during the…

Matsuyama-jō

Ehime Prefecture

Perched on top of Mt Katsuyama in the centre of town, the castle dominates the city, as it has for centuries. Matsuyama-jō is one of Japan's finest…

Temple One: Ryōzen-ji

Tokushima & the Anan Coast

Ryōzen-ji is Temple One of the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku pilgrimage. It is called Temple One because it was the first that temple pilgrims came to…

Ritsurin-kōen

One of the most beautiful gardens in the country, Ritsurin-kōen dates from the mid-1600s and took more than a century to complete. Designed as a walking…

Temple 23: Yakuō-ji

The major attraction of Hiwasa, Yakuō-ji, Temple 23, is the last temple in Tokushima Prefecture. Yakuō-ji dates back to the year 726, and is famous as a…

Top picks from our travel experts

The best things to do in shikoku to make the most out of your visit.

Tosa-shu Baru

Without doubt, this nonsmoking bar with an extremely convivial atmosphere is the place to go to try Kōchi-made sake. Owner Kōji is passionate about sake…

Sunday Market

Our favourite street market in Shikoku is 300 years old and takes place every Sunday along 1.3km of Ōte-suji, the main road leading to the castle. Around…

Temple 21: Tairyū-ji

While most henro over the past 1200 years have struggled up steep mountain paths to get to Tairyū-ji, these days this magnificent mountaintop temple is…

Dōgo Onsen Honkan

The main building at Dōgo Onsen, Dōgo Onsen Honkan, was constructed in 1894, and designated as an important cultural site in 1994. The three-storey,…

Ishizuchi-san Summit Hut

Open from the start of May to the start of November, this is an isolated mountain hut perched on the exposed peak of Ishizuchi-san. It sleeps 50. There's…

Naruto Whirlpool Sightseeing Boats

This company makes regular trips out to see the Naruto whirlpools from the small port next to the Naruto Kankō-kō (鳴門観光港) bus stop. If you're making the…

Yōkaichi Historic District

Uchiko's picturesque and protected main street has a number of interesting buildings, many of which now serve as museums, souvenir stalls, craft shops,…

Hirome Ichiba

Dozens of mini-restaurants and bars specialising in everything from gomoku rāmen (seafood noodles) to tako-yaki (octopus balls) surround communal tables;…

Ōnaruto-hashi

Linking Shikoku to Awaji-shima, impressive Ōnaruto-hashi was completed in 1985. Later, when the world's longest suspension bridge, the Akashi Kaikyō…

Uzu-no-michi Viewing Walkway

For an intriguing bird's-eye view of the whirlpools, you can walk out along this breezy 450m-long walkway hanging underneath the Naruto Bridge, which puts…

Temple 24: Hotsumisaki-ji

This gorgeous hilltop temple is considered one of the most important on the 88 Temple Pilgrimage because it is here at Muroto that Kōbō Daishi achieved…

Ōmori Wa-rōsoku

Here at Uchiko's last remaining candle manufacturer the candles are still made by hand, according to traditional methods; you can watch the candle makers…

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First Timer’s Guide to Shikoku — 13 Unique Things to Do in Japan Besides Sightseeing

There’s more to Japan than just Tokyo. Here’s what you can do on the oft-forgotten island of Shikoku!

I’ve been to Japan three times in my entire life and like any other tourist, Tokyo and Kyoto were my most visited destinations. But there are so many more islands in Japan to explore — one being the often forgotten Shikoku.

It’s one of the four main islands of Japan and there’s plenty of things to do besides sightseeing! From adventurous activities to traditional crafts, here are 13 unique local experiences for first-timers to try on this beautiful island.

1) Conquer your fear on a bridge made of vines

Photo credit:@tourismshikoku2 via Facebook

The Iya Vine Bridge located in Miyoshi City is known as one of the three most unusual bridges in Japan — being woven from wild vines. It’s 45m long and 14m above a flowing river, which you can see through the gaps on the bridge.

Crossing this vine bridge may sound like a scary idea but it’s a thrilling and one-of-a-kind experience. Don’t worry, there are renovation works done every three years to ensure its safety!

Cost (to cross the bridge):  ¥550 (~S$7) Opening hours:   Varies Address:  Nishiiyayamamura Zentoku, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0102

2) Scramble, climb and jump in canyons

Photo credit: Niyodo Adventure

Jump into the blue Niyodo River from the Nakatsu Gorge or abseil down cliffs — canyoneering is one of the ways to explore Kochi’s amazing caves and waterfalls.

This two-hour tour with Niyodo Adventure will bring you deep into the valleys inaccessible by regular walking or driving paths, perfect for outdoor lovers!

Tour cost:  ¥8500 (~S$103) Opening hours:  10AM – 6PM ( Call beforehand ) Address:  450 Nanokawa, Niyodogawa, Agawa, Kochi 781-1741

3) Experience stand up paddling along Japan’s last clear stream

Photo credit: withR IVER

Shimanto River in Kochi prefecture is the longest river in Shikoku and is sometimes referred to as Japan’s last natural clear stream. Unlike most of the rivers in Japan, this has no large dams disrupting its flow, remaining pristine and untouched by man.

Pick from tours ranging from 60 minutes to half-day where you can float across blue waters on a stand-up paddleboard while spotting wildlife.

Tour cost:  From ¥3000 (~S$37) Opening hours:  8AM – 6PM Address:  1841 Misato, Shimanto, Kochi 787-1221

4) Zipline across forested slopes

Photo credit: Forest Adventure Iya

For the brave and adventurous, Iya Forest Adventure is a great way to get your blood pumping and adrenaline rushing! Zipline across large forested slopes and over the emerald waters of the Iya River Gorge. It’s perfect for experiencing nature’s beauty in a thrilling manner.

For something more chill, there are also other courses such as making your way through different rope bridges six metres high and conquering shorter ziplines in the course.

Cost:  ¥4100 (~S$50) Opening hours:  9AM – 5PM (Reception closes at 3PM) Address:  379 Nishiiyayamamura Oinouchi, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0101

5) Journey on an 88 Temple Pilgrimage

Photo credit: @visitkochijapan via Facebook

If there’s one thing Shikoku is famous for, it’s the Shikoku pilgrimage route or Shikoku Henro . The entire route spans 1,200km long and consists of 88 “official” temples and sacred sites where famous Buddhist priest Kukai or Kobo Daishi, was believed to have trained in the ninth century.

Don’t know where to start? You can drop by Iwamotoji Temple in Kochi, the 37th temple in the route, which offers various experiences such as a fire ritual ceremony and even a sauna!

Look up to the ceiling of the main hall and you’ll see gorgeous paintings drawn and donated by people across Japan.

Yakuriji temple, the 85th temple of the pilgrimage, is also another hidden gem located on Mount Goken that’s worth a visit when you’re in Kagawa!

Hike, drive or take a cable car to reach the temple at the top of the mountain, where you can get amazing views of the Yashima and Takamatsu cityscapes on the observation deck there.

Iwamotoji Temple Sauna fee: ¥2800/pax (~S$33), ¥1500/pax (~S$18) for children under 12 Fire ritual ceremony fee: ¥9000/pax (~S$107), ¥5200/pax (~S$62) for those under 18 (Children under 6 years old are not allowed to participate) Opening hours:  7AM – 5PM Address: 3-13 Shigekushimachi, Shimanto, Takaoka, Kochi 786-0004

Yakuriji Temple Entrance fee:   Free, ¥1000 (~S$12) for a round-trip via cable car Opening hours:   7AM – 6PM Address: 3416 Murecho Mure, Takamatsu, Kagawa 761-0121

Read also:   13 Exciting Things to do in Kochi, Japan: A Countryside Experience in Shikoku Island’s Great Outdoors

6) Indulge in a sweet making workshop

Photo credit: @UniqueJapanTours via Facebook

Traditionally made in the Shikoku prefectures of Tokushima and Kagawa since the 1770s, wasanbon is a fine-grained Japanese sugar usually used for Japanese sweets.

At Sanshu Izutsu Yashiki , there’s a sweet-making workshop where you can enjoy your own handmade local sweets. The building was also formerly built in the Edo period of Japan and currently serves as a museum, sweet-making workshop, and souvenir shop.

Cost:  ¥1500 (~S$18) Opening hours:  10AM – 4PM Address:  2163 Hiketa, Higashikagawa, Kagawa 769-2901

7) Make traditional Japanese paper

Photo credit: Kochi Visitors & Convention Association

Unleash your artistic side and try making washi at Yusuhara Washi Studio Kamikoya . This traditional Japanese paper is made of long fibres from local plants and will not deteriorate even after 100 years.

Established by a local Netherlander Rogier Uitenboogaart over 40 years ago, the studio hosts workshops which teach visitors how to create washi . It even has a garden with flowers and leaves for decorating the paper.

Cost:  From ¥2500 (~S$30) Opening hours:  9AM – 6PM Address:  1678 Otado, Yusuhara, Takaoka, Kochi 785-0603

8) Visit a town famous for indigo dye

Photo credit:@tourismshikoku2 via Facebook

In the east of Shikoku lies Tokushima prefecture and within it, a town which has been developed into an indigo distribution centre.

The Udatsu historical district is a hidden gem worth visiting, where the houses in the street were built around 100 or 200 years ago, taking you back in time.

There is also an indigo dye workshop near the Mima City Tourism Resource Centre to try your hand at tie-dyeing handkerchiefs and experimenting with different patterns!

Cost:  From ¥1010 (~S$12) Opening hours:  9AM – 5PM (closed every second Wednesday of the month) Address:  45 Wakimachi Wakimachi, Mima, Tokushima 779-3610

9) Float on a sea of clouds

Every morning, a picturesque phenomenon happens in the Tokushima prefecture. Fog arises from Yoshino River creating a sea of clouds among the mountains.

The best place to capture this amazing phenomenon is from the Ahashi Viewing Deck , where it overlooks the Oboke Yoshino River.

*Pro-tip: Visit between March to April or October to December when the clouds are thickest, to get the best view.

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  Sunrise to 7:30AM Address:  Kamiahashi Nishiiyama-mura, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0003

10) Learn traditional Japanese crafts

Photo credit: Kagawa Prefectural Government

Kagawa prefecture in the north of Shikoku is not only best known for udon but also its quality lacquerware, which is deeply rooted in its history.

Visitors can learn how to lacquer chopsticks, chopstick stands, and small bowls at the Sanuki Lacquer Art Museum in Takamatsu City. There are even unique handmade items for sale at the museum, great for a souvenir gift.

Cost:  ¥3000 (~S$37) Opening hours:  10AM – 6PM Address:  10-4 Konyamachi, Takamatsu, Kagawa 760-0027

11) Soak in a natural hot spring

Photo credit: Hotel Iya Onsen

While Japan has plenty of hot springs you can find in the city, nothing beats soaking in a hot spring surrounded by nature.

What’s more, the only way to get there is via a cable car ride with majestic views of the forest changing every season.

So you can expect a relaxing and wonderful time at Hotel Iya Onsen , the only hotel in Iya Valley with an open-air hot spring overlooking the Iya River.

Cost:  Free for hotel guests, ¥1700 (~S$21) for day use Opening hours:  7AM – 9PM (for hotel guests), 7:30AM – 6PM (for day use) Address:  367-28 Matsuo Matsumoto, Ikeda, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0165

12) Explore a Japanese garden with over 400 years of history

For first-timers to Kagawa, Ritsurin Garden is a must-visit. It was a former private garden for the rulers of Takamatsu City, with over 400 years of history.

Since then, it has transformed into a classical Japanese garden with a park that contains six ponds and more than 1000 pine trees.

Hanazono-tei Teashop , a traditional tea house inside the garden, also offers a porridge breakfast set so you can enjoy a warm meal with a picturesque view.

Entrance fee:  ¥410 (~S$5) Opening hours:  5:30AM – 7PM ( depends on the season ) Address:  1-20-16 Ritsurincho, Takamatsu, Kagawa 760-0073

13) Hop on a scenic train ride

Photo credit: Shikoku Railway Company

One of the best ways to take in the beautiful scenery in Shikoku is via the JR (Japan Railways) Sightseeing Trains .

There are three sightseeing trains to travel around different prefectures in Shikoku. Each train design reflects the particular area they serve, with both modern and retro-style themed carriages.

So sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious local meal while travelling past amazing views of mountains and seas.

Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari (Kagawa and Tokushima Prefecture) Cost:  From ¥9080 (~S$111)

Shikoku Tosa Toki-No-Yoake-No Monogatari (Kochi Prefecture) Cost:  From ¥9840 (~S$120)

Read also:   15 Unique Experiences in Shikoku — The Laidback Island of Japan Undiscovered By Most Tourists

Getting Around Shikoku

Shikoku is located in the southwestern part of Japan and consists of four prefectures — Ehime, Kagawa, Tokushima and Kochi.

Each prefecture has its own airport, namely Matsuyama Airport, Takamatsu Airport, Tokushima Airport and Kochi Ryoma Airport. There are domestic flights from several major Japanese cities such as Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya to Shikoku. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus there.

To get around the island, rent a car, hop on a bus or take the JR Sightseeing Trains. You can also consider purchasing the All Shikoku Rail Pass , which provides unlimited travel around Shikoku for a certain period of time!

Lesser Known Gems of Japan in Shikoku

Here are just 13 unique things to do in Shikoku but there’s so much more to explore if you dig a little deeper! So the next time you’re in Japan, don’t just limit yourself to famous tourist destinations, broaden your experiences and discover the lesser known sides of Japan.

Who knows, you might find hidden gems in Shikoku not listed here — do share them with us in the comments below!😉

Featured image credit: Anabuki Travel

This post was brought to you by Shikoku Transport & Tourism Bureau and by the incorporation of Kagawa Prefectural Government, Tokushima Prefectural Government and Kochi Prefectural Government .

Like what you see? Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram  for more travel inspiration!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by thetravelintern.com 🇸🇬 (@thetravelintern)

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• 3 Other destinations
• 4 Understand
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3 By train
• 6.5 By boat
• 7.1 By train
• 7.3 On foot
• 8.1.1 Original castles
• 8.1.2 Reconstructed castles
• 8.1.3 Castle ruins
• 8.2 Shrines
• 8.3 Gardens
• 8.4 Museums

Shikoku (四国) is an oft-forgotten island in Japan . The smallest of Japan's Big Four with around four million inhabitants, it lies to the south of Honshu . The island is thought of as a rural backwater, with few must-see attractions, but a visit there can wash away those doubts; the mountainous inner regions offer some good hiking . It is also the home of the 88 Temple Pilgrimage of the Shingon sect of Buddhism.

Tourism Shikoku is the official multilingual guide site for the whole area.

Regions [ edit ]

Shikoku literally means "four countries", and it indeed consists of four ancient countries (now prefectures) on Shikoku island, conveniently arranged around the compass points. Each prefecture also has an old provincial name, still often found in place names and listed in parenthesis below.

Cities [ edit ]

• 34.066167 132.997778 1 Imabari - famous for its towels and half of the Shimanami Kaido
• 33.603694 133.686056 2 Kami - Home of Anpanman Museum and one of the nation's top three caves
• 33.558833 133.531222 3 Kochi — home of "Yosakoi" and many local sights
• 34.289417 133.797611 4 Marugame - One of the island's famous castle towns
• 33.839167 132.765639 5 Matsuyama — Shikoku's largest city, best known for the venerable hot springs of Dogo Onsen , inspiration of princes and poets
• 34.172583 134.608778 6 Naruto — Start of the Shikoku Pilgrimage and home of the nation's famous whirlpools.
• 34.342806 134.046611 7 Takamatsu — capital of Kagawa Prefecture, widely known for its superb udon
• 34.070278 134.554944 8 Tokushima — home of the Awa Odori festival in August
• 33.223306 132.560556 9 Uwajima — (barely) on the tourist map due to an interesting fertility shrine and wrestling bulls

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 32.723333 133.02 1 Cape Ashizuri — a scenic cape at the southernmost point of Shikoku
• 33.875278 133.835278 2 Iya Valley — a remote but beautiful mountain valley
• 34.191417 133.823306 3 Kotohira — home to Konpirasan , Shikoku's most famous shrine
• 33.7675 133.115 4 Mount Ishizuchi — the tallest peak in Shikoku
• 34.459806 133.995639 5 Naoshima — Japan's original and most famous "art island".
• 33.906085 133.753807 6 Oboke and Koboke — rafting on the Yoshino river
• 32.991278 132.933694 7 Shimanto City - Home to "The Last Pristine River in Japan" and the famous submersible bridges that cross it.
• 34.513611 134.285556 8 Shodoshima - Largest island in Shikoku, known for its art, soy sauce, and ravine.

Understand [ edit ]

Shikoku is the smallest of Japan's four main islands. It's known for its abundant nature and pristine rivers, including the Shimanto River in Shimanto nicknamed the "last clearwater river in Japan" and the Yoshino River whose turbulent rapids make for great rafting. The island is also rich in cultural heritage. Like the rest of the country, Shikoku was also targeted by air raids in WWII and although some cultural sites, such as the home of Sakamoto Ryoma were destroyed, most of the island's heritage sites were spared. It is now home to more original castles (four) than any other region in the country and arguably the most famous pilgrimage route in the nation.

Talk [ edit ]

Shikoku is far enough off the beaten track that some Japanese ability, while not absolutely necessary, will come in handy. Some of Shikoku's dialects, notably Tosa-ben spoken in Kochi , are famously incomprehensible even to other Japanese.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

While there are highways linking Shikoku with Honshu, they are expensive—around ¥5,000.

By plane [ edit ]

Prefectural capitals Takamatsu , Matsuyama , Kochi and Tokushima all have small regional airports. Matsuyama has flights to Seoul and Shanghai , while Takamatsu fields a few flights a week to Seoul. For any other international destinations, you will likely have to connect via Tokyo or Kansai .

By train [ edit ]

Shikoku is not connected to the Shinkansen network, but there are frequent connections from Okayama on Honshu to Takamatsu and from there on throughout the island. The limited express Shiokaze (特急　しおかぜ) runs back and forth between Okayama and Matsuyama roughly every hour during the day, skipping some stations on the way, if you feel like a more direct connection to that side of the island. The pace on Shikoku being what it is, don't come there expecting any of the trains to be super fast.

Train information will be in Japanese only, unlike what you may be used to from the Shinkansen. So either be sure to brush up on your knowledge of terms such as "unreserved seats" and the names of the places you're planning to visit, in kanji, or plan to ask a lot of people (which may be more fun, but may also take more time).

By bus [ edit ]

If you are coming from Kansai or eastern parts of Japan, buses through Awaji Island are the fastest way of getting to Shikoku.

By boat [ edit ]

There are numerous ferries that run to Shikoku that can be taken from major cities like Kobe and Hiroshima . Setouchi Naikai Kisen and Ishizaki Kisen run both high-speed (¥8,000, 70 minutes) and regular ferries (¥5,000, 2.5 hours) from Hiroshima to Matsuyama. To save some money and correspondingly 20 and 45 minutes at sea, travel by Kure Line train to/from the town of Kure (this won't shorten your voyage from Hiroshima overall); both ferries make a stop there both ways, and the port is about 10-minute walk from the station.

Get around [ edit ]

Shikoku can be difficult to get around without your own vehicle, especially to out-of-the-way natural sites sought by many visitors. Trains are infrequent in many parts, as are buses, so travelers who wish to move about the island or explore remote areas should know the timetables of whatever transport you need beforehand. Some buses only run during specific periods or on weekends and holidays only. Some travelers report feeling that it's more expensive however, this may be due to their perception of Shikoku as the "small island". In actuality, the price per distance is generally the same as more frequented routes. The time required however, is much greater. For example, the price from Okayama to Hiroshima just north on the mainland versus Takamatsu to Matsuyama is almost the same however, the Takamatsu-Matsuyama route takes more than twice as long.

During specified periods, the Yodo Line operates Cycle Trains (予土線サイクルトレイン) which allow you to bring your bicycles on the train for easy and convenient cycling along the route.

The JR train network connects the larger towns together fairly well, but regular trains are slow and expresses are expensive. The main lines are:

• JR Yosan Line (予讃線) on the west coast, from Takamatsu to Uwajima via Matsuyama . It also includes the Uchiko Line which connects Iyo to Ozu via Uchiko .
• JR Dosan Line (土讃線) across the center of the island, from Tadotsu to Shimanto (Kubokawa Station) via the Oboke gorge (near Iya Valley ) and Kochi
• JR Kōtoku Line (高徳線) on the east coast, from Takamatsu to Tokushima

For heavy travel, JR offers the Shikoku Free Kippu (四国フリーきっぷ) [1] , which allows unlimited usage of JR trains and buses, including limited expresses, on three consecutive days (¥16,140). If you manage to time it so that you can start on your birthday, ask for the Birthday Kippu instead, and you'll get the same deal for just ¥10,000!

For the frugal traveler, the Shikoku Saihakken Haya-Toku Kippu (四国再発見早トクきっぷ) [2] may be a better deal, as it offers one day of unlimited travel for just ¥2,000. There are three big catches though: it's only valid on weekends and public holidays, it's limited to local trains, and you have to buy it at least one day in advance.

Tosa Kuroshio Railway is the largest private railway on the island and connects the JR Lines to the far ends of Kochi Prefecture. Some parts of the JR network, notably the southern segment from Kubokawa to Sukumo , have split off and are now owned by Tosa Kuroshio Railway company.

Each of the capitals with the exception of Tokushima have trams that make travel around the city centers convenient.

Buses fill in the gaps in the train network and are the only means of transport in areas like Cape Ashizuri and the Iya Valley . Schedules are sparse and prices are high.

On foot [ edit ]

Serious pilgrims may choose to complete the 88 Temple Circuit (see Do ) on foot.

See [ edit ]

Castles [ edit ].

Original castles [ edit ]

There are twelve original Japanese castles left in Japan, and Shikoku is home to four of them, more than any other region.

• Marugame Castle, Marugame
• Kochi Castle, Kochi
• Matsuyama Castle, Matsuyama
• Uwajima Castle, Uwajima

Reconstructed castles [ edit ]

• Imabari Castle, Imabari
• Takamatsu Castle, Takamatsu
• Nakamura Castle, Shimanto
• Kawanoe Castle, Shikokuchuo

Castle ruins [ edit ]

• Tokushima Castle, Tokushima
• Yuzuki Castle, Matsuyama
• Oko Castle, Nankoku

Shrines [ edit ]

• Konpirasan ( Kotohira )

Gardens [ edit ]

• Ritsurin Garden ( Takamatsu )
• Makino Botanical Gardens ( Kochi )
• Monet Garden ( Kitagawa )
• Tenshaen Garden ( Uwajima )
• Nanrakuen Garden (Uwajima)

Museums [ edit ]

• Chichu Museum and Benesse House ( Naoshima )
• Otsuka Museum of Art ( Naruto )
• Shikoku Mura ( Takamatsu )
• Teshima Art Museum ( Teshima )

Do [ edit ]

• 88 Temple Pilgrimage . The 88 Temple Pilgrimage is a famous but grueling 1,647-km hike around the entire island.  
• White-water rafting . The rafting in the Yoshinogawa River near Oboke and Koboke is said to be quite good.  

Buy [ edit ]

• The most sought after present or "omiyage" after a visit to Shikoku is udon noodles. Fresh and dried noodles can be purchased at almost any souvenir shop.
• Gifts related to the traditional pilgrims ( henro ) and their outfits are also popular, including a "Henro" Hello Kitty cell phone charm. These can be found in gift shops.

Eat [ edit ]

There aren't any "Shikokuan" foods per se, but each prefecture has something that they're famous for:

• Ehime : Sweet mikan mandarin oranges
• Kagawa : Sanuki udon noodles
• Kochi : Bonito ( Katsuo ), a type of small tuna fish
• Tokushima : Sudachi a little smooth green citrus fruit, like a lime

Drink [ edit ]

Sleep [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

• Chugoku - Easily accessible by train, car, or ferry, from natural sites, such as the nation's largest cave in Akiyoshidai and the sand dunes of Tottori to rich historical cities, like Hiroshima and Okayama , the Chugoku region offers a wide variety of unique travel experiences.
• Kansai - A pleasant escape from the mostly rural Shikoku to Osaka and Kobe are makes for a fun trip. With a plethora of historical and cultural sites in Kyoto , Nara , and Ise , a trip to Kansai can be enjoyable for all types of travelers.

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Discover Shikoku: 7 days itinerary travelling around the Seto Inland Sea

The island of Shikoku is the smallest and least-populated of Japan’s four main islands (Honshu, Kyushu and Hokkaido) and also its least visited. Shikoku however, is well worth a visit, even if you can only manage to spend a week in the area. Ideally, you’d spend at least a few days in each of the island’s four prefectures (Tokushima, Kochi, Ehime and Kagawa) but that really depends on when you visit and what you want to do. Here we’ll provide you with an example for your one week Shikoku itinerary. 

Day 1: Osaka – Himeji Castle – Okayama Day 2: Okayama – Naoshima Day 3: Naoshima – Teshima Island – Takamatsu Day 4: Takamatsu – Matsuyama Day 5: Matsuyama Day 6: Shimanami Kaido Trail Day 7: Onomichi – Hiroshima

This proposed itinerary starts in Osaka and will end in Hiroshima, but you can start from either city. It is also possible to start in Hiroshima and make your way up to Osaka. All activities, including the Shimanami Kaido cycling tour, can be done the other way around too. Let’s have a more detailed look at the itinerary.

Day 1: Osaka, Himeji Castle & Okayama

Day 2: okayama – naoshima, day 3: naoshima – teshima island – takamatsu , day 4: takamatsu – matsuyama, day 5: matsuyama, day 6: cycle the shimanami kaido, day 7: onomichi – hiroshima, other articles you may like.

After you have enjoyed all the good things Osaka has to offer , hop on the Shinkansen for Okayama, which leaves every 15 minutes. A one-way direct ride should only take you 45 minutes, but we suggest making a short stop in Himeji, to visit the beautiful Himeji Castle (姫路城), one of the 12 original castles of Japan and also considered to be one of the most beautiful castles in all of Japan . From Himeji Station to the castle is a 20 minute walk.

After taking in the impressive beauty of Himeji Castle, continue to Okayama (岡山) an important transportation hub in the area. The castle town’s most popular attraction is the Japanese-style Korakuen Garden (後楽園) , located near Okayama Castle (岡山城), home to several traditional architectural highlights. Among the Japanese, Okayama is famous for Momotaro (桃太郎), also known as peach boy, who, according to the local legend, defeated the ogres of Megijima who were merauding the area. Spend the night in Okayama and don’t miss out on the local delicacies. Depending on your appetite to discover more of the area, you can take a cycling trip to Kibi Plain, the canal-district of nearby Kurashiki or discover more of Okayama . Stay at one of the many hotels near the station, for example Mitsui Garden Hotel Okayama

Okayama offers easy access to the famous art island of Naoshima (直島) . The island is an art sanctuary home to several modern art museums such as Chichu Art Museum or Benesse House Museum, architectural highlights and other amazing art works. From Okayama Station take an express bus or train to Uno Port, from where you can board the boat to Naoshima. 

When you arrive at Naoshima, the first iconic piece of art, the dotted Red Pumpkin designed by the famous Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, will welcome you at Miyanoura Port. The best way to explore the island is renting an electric bicycle. If you are in the mood for a workout you can also rent a normal bicycle, but there are quite a few hills on the island. Explore all of Naoshima’s highlights and stay overnight at MY LODGE Naoshima .

Take an early ferry from Naoshima via Teshima Island (豊島) to Takamatsu . Teshima Island is a charming spot of natural beauty and one of the locations of the Setouchi Triennale international art festival. Takamatsu (高松), located in Japan’s smallest prefecture Kagawa , used to be the main point of access to Shikoku but is relatively undiscovered. Ritsurin Garden (栗林公園) is one of the most pristine patches of landscape you will ever come across, enjoy a refreshing cup of Japanese green tea at Kikugetsu-tei teahouse while taking in the beautiful garden. After a full day of exploration, enjoy the local specialty, sanuki udon, and overnight at JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu .

You can also opt for spending the night at Konpira Onsen (こんぴら温泉), unwind at the hot springs and next morning, climb the 1,368 steps to the top of Kotohira-gu shrine.

If you have an extra day to spare, we recommend a short trip to Megijima and or Ogijima. Two small islands just off the coast of Takamatsu with amazing scenic views, short hikes and great for exploring in a day.

From Takamatsu to Matsuyama, take the JR limited express train that runs along the northern coastline and bring you to Matsuyama in approximately 3 hrs. The train ride offers expansive scenic views over the island-dotted Seto Inland Sea , a brilliant way to enjoy more of the natural beauty of Shikoku.

Matsuyama (松山) is the prefectural capital of Ehime Prefecture and the largest city in Shikoku. The city is best known for Dogo Onsen (道後温泉), one of Japan’s oldest onsen resorts – dating from 189 – located on the outskirts of the city. The main attraction is the wooden public bathhouse Dogo Onsen Honkan that served as an inspiration for the Ghibli movie Spirited Away. Another highlight is Matsuyama Castle  (松山城), also on the list of Japan’s 12 original castles and a prime sakura viewing spot.

Spend the night at Yamatoya Honten , a Japanese ryokan with fabulous onsen facilities in Dogo Onsen.

Ehime Prefecture is referred to as the Land of the Mikans (oranges), blessed with warm and sunny weather all throughout the year, the area is a paradise for citrus fruits lovers. So make sure you try some of the juicy, sweet mikan. Besides mikan, Ehime is known for its castles, onsen resort, the world’s longest suspension bridge, historical shrines and temples .

Spend a day exploring the highlights of Matsuyama or undertake a day trip from the city into the more rural areas near the city, such as Mount Ishizuchi, or visit Ehime’s ‘Little Kyoto’ Ozu. You can also opt to visit some temples from the famous Shikoku 88 Temples Pilgrimage also known as ohenro near Matsuyama such as Ishite Temple or Hanta Temple, or even walk part of the 1,200-year-old circular trail.

Start the day early and make your way to Imabari (今治市), the start of the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Road , a scenic drive with the most amazing views of the Seto Inland Sea. Shimanami Kaido (しまなみ海道) is a 70 kilometer long toll road, crossing six small islands and connecting Imabari in Shikoku with Onomichi on the mainland. The cycling trail is about 80 km long with several attractions on the way including some interesting museums. Rent bicycles and cycle across the comfortable road before returning the bicycles in Onomichi. It is highly recommended to make your reservation online in advance to secure a nicer bike that fits you best.

It is hard to ride with a heavy backpack or suitcase, fortunately there is a same-day luggage transfer service available, offered by Sagawa’s “Shimanami Kaido Cycling Without Baggage” service. You can also send your luggage via the normal transport services, however they often do not offer same day delivery. 

The ending point of the Shimanami Kaido is Onomichi (尾道) in Hiroshima Prefecture, a favourite tourist spot for Japanese, but not much visited by international tourists. The lovely little port town is characterized by its dramatic slopes and narrow streets and known for its temples and many cats. Take a cable car up the slopes or walk the popular Temple Walk that passes 25 historic temples to the top of Senkoji mountain. Senkoji Park at the top affords some great views over the traditional town and the Seto Inland Sea, the view is especially attractive in the sakura season and considered one of Japan’s best cherry blossom spots. 

After waking up in Onomichi, explore the quaint little port town with a nostalgic atmosphere before heading on to Hiroshima (広島市), the city of peace and the sight of the infamous atomic bomb dropping during the Second World War. Next to its history, Hiroshima is famous for its scenic beauty and two UNESCO World Heritage Sites ; the Atomic Bomb Dome and Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima, a small island just off the coast of Hiroshima . As always, a private tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima can take you to the meaningful sites so you can learn the history and importance of the historical events as well as enjoy the local attraction best. 

There are many more must-see tourist spots for you to explore and experiences for you to have. Go hiking up in to mountains, visit the Awa Odori Museum in Tokushima, see the magnificent whirlpools in the Naruto Straits or go kayaking in the Shimanto River. Don’t forget to try some of the local specialties like Tokushima Ramen, Katsuo Tataki and the juicy oranges of Ehime . Shikoku has much more to offer and because it isn’t largely discovered by (international) tourist, you can have a relaxing, authentic and true Japanese experience. You will experience the utmost kindness from local people who are happy to welcome you in beautiful Shikoku.

This seven days itinerary takes you around some of the highlights surrounding the Seto Inland Sea and Shikoku Region. As mentioned, this itinerary merely serves as an example for your trip, you can add as many other stops along the route as you want and it can also be done the other way around starting in Hiroshima and ending your trip in Osaka. For the best, personalized advice ask us for travel tips in Japan or make sure to get most out of your visit and book a private tour .

Follow us on  Instagram ,  Facebook  and  Twitter  for more travel inspiration. Or tag us to get featured! 

Happy travelling!

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The smallest of the four japanese big islands

Shikoku is the smallest of the four main islands of Japan, with a total surface of 18,800km² and 4.5 millions inhabitants. Divided into 4 prefectures, its main cities are Matsuyama, Takamatsu, Kochi and Tokushima. More rural than touristic, it is known for its luxurious nature and the pilgrimage of the 88 buddhist temples.

Shikoku is often left behind by travelers coming to Japan. Its name literally means “four countries”. Indeed the island counts 4 prefectures:

• Ehime (formerly Iyo) and its capital Matsuyama, with 516,000 inhabitants
• Kagawa (Sanuki) and Takamatsu with 419,000 inhabitants
• Kochi (Tosa) and its eponymous city, with 340,000 inhabitants
• Tokushima (Awa) and Tokushima with 264,000 inhabitants

Separated from the West of Honshu ( Chugoku region) by the Seto sea, Shikoku has numerous charming places to offer. First of all, the famous Kobo-Daishi 88 temples pilgrimage, called “Hachijuhakkasho”, which spreads onto 1,170 kilometers and appeals several thousands of “Henro” pilgrims every year during one or two months (it celebrated its 1,200 years old anniversary in 2014). Then, the famous Awa-Odori dance festival, which happens every year in mid- August in Tokushima city. And as an anecdote, the city of Naruto, with its 64,000 inhabitants and the natural phenomenon happening in the ocean, giving the city its name : the whirlpools.

Important note is that Shikoku is also a quite famous dog breed, called Kochi-en (“Dog of Kochi”), from the name of the prefecture they are originated.

Shikoku island has been ranked as the 35th place to visit in 2015 by the New York Times, as being the only elected place of all Japan.

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Top 15 Recommended Tourist Spots in Shikoku! Introducing popular tourist spots in each of the four prefectures!

Shikoku is a region consisting of four prefectures: Ehime, Kagawa, Tokushima, and Kochi.

Thanks to its mild Seto Inland Sea climate, it's a popular area that's easy to visit and attracts many tourists year-round! In this article, we'll introduce popular spots for sightseeing and delicious gourmet spots in the Shikoku region to help you plan your trip.

*This article is translated using ChatGPT. For the latest information on each tourist spot and facility, we recommend checking the official website. 

• 日本 、香川県、愛媛県、徳島県、高知県

Tourist Spots in Tokushima Prefecture

Naruto strait, oku-iya sightseeing monorail *closed (no scheduled reopening in 2023), mount bizan ropeway, tourist spots in kagawa prefecture, kotohira-gu shrine, chichibugahama beach, shodoshima island, tourist spots in ehime prefecture, faucet that pours mandarin orange juice, dogo onsen honkan, matsuyama castle, tourist spots in kochi prefecture, whale watching.

Monet's Garden

Muroto Cape

Enjoying Shikoku's Gourmet Spots

Tokushima Ramen (Inotani)

Katsuo cuisine (myojinmaru), sanuki udon (gamou), recommended itinerary for sightseeing, day trip model course, 1 night 2 days model course, 2 nights 3 days model course, each of the 4 prefectures has its own unique charm.

Let's start with Tokushima Prefecture, located at the eastern end of Shikoku. It's famous for the Naruto Strait Bridge, where you can see whirlpools, and the Awa Odori festival, one of Shikoku's three major festivals. There are also numerous nature-oriented tourist spots, such as the Iya Valley in the Sanuki Mountains National Park.

The Naruto Strait stretches between Tokushima Prefecture and Hyogo Prefecture's Awaji Island. It's renowned for its famous whirlpools and has been selected as one of Japan's top 100 scenic spots.

There are two recommended ways to enjoy the sights of the Naruto Strait:

The first is from the Naruto Strait Bridge, which is 1,629 meters long. The "Uzunomichi" pedestrian walkway runs beneath the road where vehicles pass. From a height of 45 meters above the whirlpools, you can observe them up close, offering an impressive view! There are also exhibits explaining the bridge's structure, allowing you to learn more about the Naruto Strait Bridge.

The second option is to take the Uzushio Kansen boat and view the whirlpools from the sea. You can get a close-up look at the powerful whirlpools, which are said to reach speeds of up to 20 kilometers per hour. If you're planning a visit, it's recommended to check the website in advance for the best viewing times, especially during the spring tide.

• Access: 10 minutes by car from Naruto Station

Known for the "Kazurabashi" vine bridge, a nationally designated important intangible folk cultural property, the Oku-Iya Sightseeing Monorail offers a 65-minute tour of the scenic Iya Valley, which stretches about 8 kilometers and was formed by the flow of the Yoshino River. This monorail is the world's top tourist monorail in all aspects, with a total length of 4,600 meters, a height difference of 590 meters, and a two-person cabin featuring a cute design inspired by a rhinoceros beetle.

The monorail slowly moves through the midst of nature, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely sightseeing experience. As it gradually gains altitude, you can even see the peak of Mount Tsurugi, which is a symbol of Tokushima Prefecture, from the highest point.

As it's a popular attraction, tickets often sell out in the morning on weekends. It's recommended to visit as early as possible.

• Access: 53 minutes by car from Oboke Station

Mount Higashi, also known as "Bizan," has an elevation of 290 meters and is characterized by its gently sloping shape resembling an eyebrow when seen from anywhere in Tokushima City. This ropeway allows easy access to the mountaintop and has become a popular tourist spot. The location was also featured in the 2016 movie "Mount Higashi - Bisan -," based on a story by Masashi Sada.

The ropeway ride to the summit takes about 6 minutes. As it ascends, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Tokushima City. On clear days, you can take in the grand panorama of the Aso Mountains and the Seto Inland Sea. It's also known as one of the best night view spots in Shikoku, making it worth visiting both during the day and at night.

At the Mount Bizan Park on the summit, there are romantic spots like "lovers' spots" (padlocks) and LED kaleidoscopes, making it particularly recommended for couples and families.

• Access: 10 minutes on foot from Tokushima Station.

Next, let's introduce Kagawa Prefecture, located in the northeastern part of Shikoku. It's connected to the main island of Honshu by the Seto Ohashi Bridge, which boasts a world-class length of 37.3 kilometers.

Kagawa is famous for its local specialty, Sanuki Udon! In recent years, it has declared itself the "Udon Prefecture," becoming a popular destination for many tourists.

Kotohira-gu Shrine is situated on Mt. Zozu in the town of Kotohira and is the head shrine of the approximately 600 Kotohira-gu Shrines found throughout Japan.

Since the 19th century, it has been revered as the guardian deity of maritime transportation, and one of the highlights is the numerous votive tablets offering prayers for safe voyages from fishermen and sailors.

Kotohira-gu Shrine is famous for its 785 stone steps leading from the entrance town to the main shrine. It's an authentic experience to climb the steps and make a visit, even if you break a little sweat! Every year during the Grand Festival, the "Konpira Stone Steps Marathon" is held, utilizing these steps. If you're confident in your physical abilities, why not consider participating?

In August 2022, the shrine stamps have been renewed with three new designs. If you're collecting shrine stamps, be sure to check them out!

• Access: 12 minutes by car from Kotohira Station

Chichibugahama Beach has been gaining attention, especially on social media, as it resembles the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia, South America, during low tide at sunset.

Stretching about 1 kilometer along the coastline facing the Seto Inland Sea in Nio-cho, Mitoyo City, it offers a stunning view of the sunset reflecting on the water, visible only at limited times. This beautiful scenery earned it a place in Japan's top 100 sunsets selection.

During the summer beach season, it's recommended to use the Chichibugahama Port for beach access. It's equipped with showers and toilets, and there are shops selling souvenirs and dining facilities, making it a spot you'll want to visit when sightseeing.

In addition, there are plenty of delicious gourmet restaurants and accommodation facilities in the Chichibugahama Beach area! It's not just for a day trip; staying overnight and enjoying a full day of activities is also highly recommended.

• Access: 15 minutes by car from Mino Station

Shodoshima is a small island with a population of about 28,000 located in the Seto Inland Sea. Traditionally known for its fishing and shipbuilding industries, the island has been putting efforts into tourism development in recent years. Some popular tourist spots include the Angel Road, a path that appears only during low tide and connects Shodoshima with a nearby island, and the Shodoshima Olive Park with its iconic white windmills, which are said to have been the inspiration for an anime setting.

At the Shodoshima Olive Park, you can enjoy the view of the Seto Inland Sea and the refreshing aroma of approximately 2,000 olive trees and 130 varieties of herbs planted within the park.

Shodoshima Island has been used as a filming location for various movies, taking advantage of its beautiful scenery. The "Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village" allows you to experience the nostalgic atmosphere of Showa-era movie sets and immerse yourself in the history and culture of Japanese films. With many photogenic spots, it's perfect for photography!

• Access: 35 minutes by high-speed boat from Takamatsu Port

Ehime Prefecture is located in the northwestern part of Shikoku and has several islands, such as Oshima and Nakajima, floating in the Seto Inland Sea.

One of its famous attractions is the Dogo Onsen Honkan, known as Japan's oldest hot spring resort and a setting in movies. It's also a fascinating destination with many historical tourist spots from the era when it was called Iyo Province.

According to the 2020 statistics by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, Ehime Prefecture is the top producer of citrus fruits, including mandarin oranges, in Japan!

One unique and popular spot where you can enjoy this local specialty is the "Orange BAR," also known as the "Faucet that Pours Mandarin Orange Juice," located inside Matsuyama Airport in Ehime Prefecture.

True to its name, when you twist the faucet, fresh mandarin orange juice comes out. It's a spot where both kids and adults can have fun and feel like children again. The juice is made from seasonal varieties of mandarin oranges, so you can enjoy different flavors depending on the time of year. The price is just 350 yen per cup, making it easy to savor the fresh taste.

The exterior of the shop features "Mikyan," a cute mascot character of Ehime Prefecture, depicted as a mandarin and a puppy. When you visit, be sure to take photos with the juice and the mascot for a fun experience.

• Access: Inside Matsuyama Airport, Ehime Prefecture

Dogo Onsen Honkan is located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, and is famous as one of Japan's three oldest hot springs, along with Arima Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture and Shirahama Onsen in Wakayama Prefecture. The historic wooden building has undergone numerous renovations and refurbishments, and in 1994, it became the first public bathhouse in Japan to be designated as an Important Cultural Property by the government.

Inside the building, you can find the "Rei no Yu," a hot spring bath made with the finest granite, where you can relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Dogo Onsen Honkan is also said to have served as a location in Studio Ghibli films. The illuminated building at night is another charming aspect. The colorful lights make it a must-see spot for tourism in Ehime.

In addition to Dogo Onsen Honkan, there are other facilities such as the sister hot spring facility "Dogo Onsen Tsubaki no Yu" and the new hot spring facility "Dogo Onsen Bekkan Asukanoyu." If you're a hot spring enthusiast, be sure to enjoy them along with the main attraction.

• Access: 11 minutes by car from Matsuyama Station

Matsuyama Castle is situated at the center of Matsuyama City, occupying a vast area of approximately 429.40 square kilometers. It consists of the main keep located on the mountaintop of Mt. Katsuyama at an altitude of 132 meters, and the secondary and tertiary keeps situated at the foot of the mountain. Originally built during the Edo period, it is one of the twelve surviving original castles and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and one of Japan's Top 100 Castles.

One of the highlights of Matsuyama Castle is its main keep, which rises to an elevation of 161 meters. This height makes it the tallest among the twelve surviving original castles, three times taller than Himeji Castle, another flatland castle. Gazing up from below, you can't help but be impressed by its imposing presence.

Another attraction is the panoramic view of Matsuyama City seen from the main keep. The mountaintop of Mt. Katsuyama, where the main keep is located, is easily accessible by ropeway or lift. The facility is also barrier-free, allowing anyone to use it comfortably, making it another recommended point.

From the main keep at the top of the castle, you can overlook the Seto Inland Sea on clear days. At night, you can enjoy the illuminated night view lit up by the city lights, offering a different charm from the daytime scenery.

• Access: 10 minutes by Matsuyama City Tram to "Dogo Onsen" and 5 minutes on foot from "Ogaido" stop.

Kochi Prefecture is known for producing many historical figures, including Sakamoto Ryoma and Itagaki Taisuke, and for its Kochi Castle, which was built in the 1600s.

More than half of the prefecture's area is rural, with the highest production of ginger and eggplants in Japan. The countryside along the Shimanto River offers a peaceful rural landscape and abundant natural beauty, making it a charming destination.

Facing Tosa Bay, Kochi Prefecture is renowned as one of Japan's top whale watching spots, maintaining a high encounter rate of over 80% each year. The whales seen in Tosa Bay are a species called "Bryde's Whales," characterized by their length of 12 to 15 meters and three ridges on their upper jaw.

The whale watching season in Tosa Bay runs from late April to mid-October. If you're lucky, you may also encounter other marine creatures like dolphins! To fully enjoy the sea of Tosa, it's recommended to participate in local activities and tours with experienced guides. While on your trip, take care not to overindulge or lack sleep and manage your health for the extended boat ride.

• Access: 6 minutes by car from Tosa-Irino Station

Monet's Garden

Modeled after the garden in Giverny, France, loved by the French Impressionist painter Claude Monet, this garden is located in Kitagawa Village in eastern Kochi Prefecture. The garden is divided into three main areas.

In the Flower Garden, various-colored flowers bloom in a palette of seasonal beauty, welcoming visitors with different scenery on each visit. The rose arches and Norman fences are some of the charming flower beds to enjoy.

In the Water Garden, the world of Monet's masterpiece "Water Lilies" is faithfully reproduced, allowing you to experience the unique world created by water lilies and Japanese plants like wisteria and cherry blossoms.

Lastly, the Garden of Bordighera is inspired by Monet's travels to the Mediterranean. It features plants that grow along the Mediterranean coast, such as palm trees and olives, creating a feeling of being on an overseas journey.

• Access: 7 minutes by car from Tano Station

Muroto Cape, located in Muroto City, Kochi Prefecture, is a scenic spot designated as Muroto-Anan Kaigan National Park and a UNESCO Global Geopark.

A 2.6-kilometer rugged reef promenade runs along the coastline, allowing visitors to explore the area on foot. Along the promenade, you can admire various strange rocks, geological formations formed over long periods, and subtropical plants unique to the southern region.

In the evening and night, the spot becomes lively with tourists and locals coming to enjoy the sunset and night view. The unobstructed view allows you to be moved by the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. Don't forget to take a photo with the bright white lighthouse!

• Access: 10 minutes by car from the center of Muroto City.

Enjoying Shikoku's Gourmet Spots

Shikoku, surrounded by the sea and with thriving agriculture in its inland areas, offers a variety of delicious gourmet dishes packed with fresh seafood and mountain delicacies.

Each of the four prefectures that make up Shikoku has a unique history, fostering different food cultures, which contributes to the diverse range of gourmet options available. Here, we introduce must-visit gourmet spots in Shikoku.

Originating as a street stall ramen around 1949 after World War II, Tokushima's local specialty, Tokushima Ramen, has been loved by many people up to the present day.

It comes in three varieties: "Chairo" with a pork bone soy sauce base, "Yellow" with a soup made of chicken bones and vegetables, and "White" with a light taste. It is served with classic toppings such as green onions and bamboo shoots, along with sweet and savory flavored pork and eggs.

With its rich flavor and satisfying volume, even adult men can feel full after just one bowl.

"Inotani" is the main shop in Tokushima City, a famous place for Tokushima Ramen where even celebrities visit! Be sure to savor the harmony of chewy homemade noodles and flavorful soup.

• Access: 11 minutes on foot from Tokushima Station

Katsuo (bonito) in Kochi Prefecture has been cherished and enjoyed by the locals since ancient times, to the extent that it has been designated as the prefectural fish. To be able to enjoy delicious bonito in an era without preservation techniques, the cooking method called "tataki" has become widespread. Now, it is renowned as a local gourmet dish throughout the country.

"Myojinmaru" is a restaurant that offers fresh flavors, as they catch bonito using traditional pole-and-line fishing methods and cook them on the spot.

Their specialty is the "Straw-grilled Tataki with Sauce and Salt Set," which won first place in a prefectural election. You can savor the aroma of straw-grilled bonito while enjoying both the sauce and salt flavors, making it a popular choice!

Additionally, you can also try the "Wara-yaki" of Katsuo Haranbo, which is a rare part of bonito's belly. Please do enjoy the rich flavor.

• Access: 3 minutes on foot from Ohashidori Station

When it comes to Kagawa Prefecture, Sanuki Udon is a must-try local gourmet dish. Kagawa is often referred to as the "Udon Prefecture," and once you visit, you'll be amazed at the sheer number of udon shops.

Sanuki Udon is known for its light soup and chewy noodles. To be called "Sanuki Udon," it must be manufactured within Kagawa Prefecture, meeting five specific criteria, including water content and aging time.

The long-established renowned shop "Gamou" is located in Kamo-cho, Sakaide City, with beautiful countryside views. People from all over Japan visit to savor their udon. In addition to udon, their homemade tempura is also recommended. Be sure to try it together with udon.

• Access: 15 minutes on foot from Kamogawa Station

Now, let's introduce some recommended model courses for sightseeing in Shikoku.

Shikoku can be easily accessed by car from Honshu (the main island of Japan) using the Seto Ohashi Bridge and the Naruto Strait Bridge. There are many beautiful driving courses with scenic views, so using a rental car for sightseeing is highly recommended. Each of the four prefectures in Shikoku has its own airport, allowing for smooth and comfortable access by air as well.

For a day trip to Shikoku, Ehime Prefecture is recommended, as it can be accessed by car via the Nishi-Seto Expressway from Honshu.

The first spot you'll want to visit in Ehime is "Dogo Onsen" located in the city center. With its historic and elegant building, it is said to have been the inspiration for a Studio Ghibli film and is a must-visit spot even if you don't bathe in the hot springs.

After exploring Dogo Onsen, head to "Matsuyama Castle" also located in the city center of Ehime. This castle is a landmark of Ehime Prefecture, and from its main keep, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Matsuyama city.

The walk from Dogo Onsen to Matsuyama Castle takes about 20 minutes. Along the way, you'll find many shops offering delicious Matsuyama gourmet, making it perfect for a foodie stroll.

After touring Matsuyama Castle, visit the nearby "Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum." As the core art museum in Matsuyama, it holds various events and is a spot enjoyed not only by locals but also by travelers.

For a 1-night 2-day trip, on the second day, head to the neighboring Kagawa Prefecture. Stay overnight in Ehime city on the first day. Ehime city offers a wide range of hotels from business to luxury, making it an area where you won't have trouble finding accommodation.

On the second day, visit Shodoshima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea with splendid views. From Ehime city, take the JR train to Takamatsu Station and then board a ferry from Takamatsu Port to Shodoshima. It takes about an hour by JR from Ehime Station to Takamatsu Station.

Once you arrive at Shodoshima, your sightseeing adventure begins. When visiting Shodoshima, don't miss the must-see attractions such as "Angel Road," "Olive Park Road Station," "Kankakei," and "Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village." These spots offer picturesque natural landscapes that will create unforgettable memories.

If you have a slightly longer schedule for a 2-night 3-day trip, after exploring Shodoshima on the second day, spend the night in the city of Takamatsu. There are many hotels around Takamatsu Port and Takamatsu Station, with popular options being hotels with natural hot springs, like the "Dormy Inn Hotel."

On the final day, visit the mainland of Kagawa Prefecture for sightseeing. If you are interested in shrines and temples, "Kotohira-gu Shrine" is a great choice, while for breathtaking views, "Haha-no-hama" is highly recommended. From Takamatsu city, it takes about 1.5 hours to reach Kotohira-gu Shrine and about 2 hours to reach Haha-no-hama by train.

When you feel hungry during sightseeing, be sure to enjoy Kagawa Prefecture's specialty, "Sanuki Udon." Along the way to these sightseeing spots, you'll find many famous udon shops. Kagawa is famous for having a wide variety of udon restaurants, making it one of the characteristics of the prefecture.

How did you like it? We introduced recommended sightseeing spots and gourmet spots in each of the four prefectures in Shikoku.

As you can see, Shikoku has distinctive tourist destinations in each prefecture. When visiting this region with its abundance of nature and historical spots, be sure to refer to this article for your trip planning!

*Thank you for reading the article! To improve YOKKA's service, we kindly request your participation in a survey below.

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• Shikoku Information Desk
•     Sample Itineraries
•     Must-see Tourist Spots and Art Appreciation Trip

Must-see Tourist Spots and Art Appreciation Trip

Awa Odori Kaikan (Awa Odori Museum)

• Basic Information

Tokushima Station

Board a whirlpool sightseeing boat

Naruto Accommodation

Otsuka Museum of Art

Uzu-no-Michi Walkway

Ritsurin Garden

Takamatsu Accommodation

Setouchi Triennale

Kagawa Prefectural Higashiyama Kaii Setouchi Art Museum

Sakaide Accommodation

Matsuyama Station

Matsuyama Castle

Temple 51, Ishiteji

• 1 Awa Odori Kaikan (Awa Odori Museum)
• 2 Tokushima Station
• 3 Board a whirlpool sightseeing boat
• 4 Naruto Accommodation
• 5 Otsuka Museum of Art
• 6 Uzu-no-Michi Walkway
• 7 Ritsurin Garden
• 8 Takamatsu Accommodation
• 9 Setouchi Triennale
• 10 Kagawa Prefectural Higashiyama Kaii Setouchi Art Museum
• 11 Sakaide Accommodation
• 12 Matsuyama Station
• 13 Matsuyama Castle
• 14 Temple 51, Ishiteji

Shikoku Island

Of all of the major islands in Japan, Shikoku is the smallest in size, but what it may lack in geographical size it makes up for in charm. The island itself is only 225 kilometers long, and is reachable by train from Tokyo , taking about five hours to reach the island. Suspension bridges reaching from Honshu connecting to Shikoku have made the island more accessible. Made up of 4 different prefectures, Shikoku Island consists of Kagawa, Kochi, Tokushima, and Ehime.

About Shikoku Island

The island is serene and its rugged, mountainous landscape makes it an ideal hiking destination for thrill-seekers, there are rivers with whitewater rapids. Shikoku holds many spiritual attractions within the major cities such as Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama Castle, and eight pilgrimage temples found within the major city of Matsuyama. The island houses some 88 different temples, which attract a wide variety of tourists and pilgrimages.

How to visit Shikoku

To get to Shikoku there are several options but the most common are from Osaka and Tokyo . To get to Shikoku from Osaka , the JR Bus can be taken either from Nanba or Umeda Station. If coming from Umeda Station it is best to follow the signs which will lead to a pickup location near the train station and approximately twelve busses a day depart. If coming from Nanba station, there are only three buses that depart daily, much less frequently, but the bus will go directly to Tokushima City where the final stop is Tokushima bus center in Shikoku.

To get to Shikoku from Tokyo there are several options including bus, train, and ferry. Each mode of transportation offers its own comfort but some take longer than others and range in price. The fastest option is to use the train, it is best to take the bullet train from Shin-Osaka Station. Once at the final destination, the local JR train will go to Osaka station in Umeda. Then from Umeda, the steps are the same as above (from Osaka from Umeda Station)

To get to Skikoku by ferry there are a few choices and ferries that operate directly to Shikoku which start from Hiroshima and Kobe .

What to do on Shikoku Island

Naruto whirling waves.

Not easily accessible, but definitely worth it, the Naruto Whirling Waves are a rare and unique site. The waves can be enjoyed either from a boat or from the walkway on the suspension bridge across from Naruto Park. The waves are created by the straits at from Osaka Harbor creating whirlpools in the water. These are tidal whirlpools from the channel between Awaji Island in Hyogo and Naruto in Tokushima.

Marugame Castle

Found in the Kagawa Prefecture, the Marugame Castle is also recognized under other names including Kameyama Castle as well as Horai Castle. The Castle is known as one of the best places to view the cherry blossoms when the trees are in bloom. Beyond this, the castle overlooks the Seto Inland Sea and is one of the remaining castles from the post-feudal ages, there are only 12 left in Japan, making the Marugame Caste a special glimpse into this period.

Kotohira-gu Shrine

To get to the shrine, be prepared to climb some 785 stone steps to reach the top. Found in the town of Kotohira, in the Kagawa Prefecture, the Shinto Shrine is known as the patron of sea-ship transport and sailor. Once at the top, the view is certainly worth the effort, with stone lanterns and shrines situated along the path creating a special and almost magical.

892-1, Kotohira, Nakatado District, Kagawa Prefecture 766-8501, Japan

Ritsurin Garden

One of the most well-known and highly regarded historical gardens in all of Japan, the Ritsurin Garden is found in the city of Takamatsu and attracts many visitors. Within the garden, there is also a teahouse as well as art exhibitions. There are often craft fairs and small vendors in the garden selling unique handmade goods. The natural surrounding beauty of the garden is obvious why the Ritsurin Garden is one of Japan’s most famous.

1 Chome-20-1 6Ritsurincho, Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture 760-0073, Japan Open 7 days a week from 5:30 am – 6:30 pm

New Reoma World

An exciting adventure and theme park found in Marugame, New Reoma Word is the largest park of its kind in Shikoku. The park is ideal for family fun and offers attractions for visitors of all ages including an amusement park, various children’s activities, shopping, animals, and a flower garden. There is also a hotel resort and hot spring within the park.

40-1 Ayautacho Kurikumanishi, Marugame, Kagawa Prefecture 761-2493, Japan Open Mon-Thur 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, Sat-Sun 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Ryugado Cave

A captivating stalactite cave and a national heritage site that shows a glimpse into the past, including a trace from the Yayoi period. The cave also has a rope course which can be enjoyed and allow for climbing through the cave. Found on Mount Sampo, exploration through the caves shows the limestone formations from over 175 million years.

Tosayamadacho Sakakawa , Kami 782-0005, Kochi Prefecture Open daily 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

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The Ultimate Backpacking Guide to Shikoku – Getting off the Beaten Track in Japan

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When Lonely Planet published their “ Best in Travel ” suggestions for 2022 they added Shikoku to their list of the best regions to visit, stating that it’s perfect to get off Japan’s tourist trail . I wholeheartedly agree with that assessment, as Stefanie and I were able to travel around the region without meeting another western tourist for days.

The situation is somewhat stunning, as Shikoku is every bit as beautiful as the more well-trodden parts of the country. This also means that now is the perfect time to explore the serene temples and wonderful nature of the island before more travelers discover this charming part of the country.

This post may contain affiliate links, and I might earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more info, click here .

What to expect?

Shikoku is the smallest of Japans four big main islands (the others being Honshu, Hokkaido and Kyushu) and consequently the one least visited by foreign travelers. Whoever’s been here knows that this is most undeserved, as it’s a beautiful part of the country, featuring splendid nature , diverse cities and villages sporting historic buildings as well as a fantastic array of temples.

You can explore beautiful Ritsurin Park in Takamatsu , dive into the local culinary scene in pretty Kōchi, explore the breathtaking nature and wacky sights of Iya valley , immerse yourself in traditional Japanese village life in Uchiko and soak in the warm waters of Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama . There’s truly something for everyone here.

For a primer, check out my perfect Shikoku Itinerary .

What is the Shikoku Pilgrimage (aka. Shikoku Henro)?

The island is perhaps most famous for the Shikoku Henro , a Pilgrimage to 88 temples spread out all over the island. While traditionally undertaken by Buddhist pilgrims, western travelers increasingly take part in the Henro and Non-Buddhists are welcome to attempt the feat.

Apart from the possibility of spiritual enlightenment, the pilgrimage gives you the opportunity to get to know diverse landscapes and beautiful architecture along its 1200 km (750 mi.) trail .

It sounds fantastic and is definitely on my personal bucket list. If you can’t spare the 50 to 60 days it takes to complete the Henro, you’ll still be able to see a few of the 88 temples during a shorter trip to the island. Shikoku has a lot to offer for pilgrims and non-pilgrims alike.

Do I need a Visa for Japan?

There are plenty of visa-free countries, including the US, Canada, Australia and member states of the European Union. Check if you need a visa for Japan here .

How to get to Shikoku

Japan’s public transport system is immaculate and Shikoku is easy to reach by train, bus,  plane or boat.

Getting to Shikoku by plane

If you’re short on time, you might want to consider flying in. All Nippon Airways , Japan Airlines , Jetstar and Peach all have regular connections to the four biggest cities on the island. Takamatsu, Matsuyama, Kochi and Tokushima can all be reached from Tokyo and other bigger cities in the country. Check their websites for connections. Jetstar’s prices were the lowest when we were flying from Tokyo to Takamatsu.

There are also a couple of international flights from Matsuyama to bigger cities in Eastern Asia, like Seoul and Shanghai.

Getting to Shikoku by boat

A couple of ferry services connect cities in northern and eastern Shikoku to the mainland. The Setonokai Kisen ferry connects Matsuyama on Shikoku to Hiroshima in southern Honshu with a speed service (12 daily / about 1.25 hours / 7,800¥) and a slower, cheaper service (10 daily / about 2.5 hours / 4,500¥).

Jumbo Ferry runs between Takamatsu on Shikoku and Kobe in Honshu (four daily / about 4 hours / 2,000¥), while Ocean Tokyu ferry from Tokushima in eastern Shikoku goes all the way to Tokyo (once daily / about 18 hours / 13,400¥).

Getting to Shikoku by train

Trains access Shikoku from mainland Honshu via the Seto-Ohashi bridge in the northeastern part of the island. There are direct train connections between Takamatsu on Shikoku and Okayama on Honshu (about 1 hour / 2,000¥), where you can connect to faster Shinkansen trains to Kyoto, Osaka and beyond.  

Getting to Shikoku by bus

Buses from all major cities in southern Honshu (like Tokyo, Kyoto, Nagoya, Osaka, Hiroshima, etc.) make their way to one of the big cities near Shikoku’s three road-bridges (Matsuyama in the north-west, Takamatsu in the north-east and Tokushima in the east of the island). They’re slower but cheaper than the trains.

How to get around on Shikoku

Japans infallible train network doesn’t exclude Shikoku, and there are train connections between all the bigger cities on the island. A good idea is to get a regional JR-Railway pass that allows for unlimited use of Shikoku’s JR railways for 3 (9,000¥/68$), 4 (10,000¥/75$), 5 (11,000¥/82$) or 7 days (13,000¥/96$).  You can order your pass online here .

In some areas of the island, getting around by public transport is a bit complicated. Examples include the Iya Valley – although, with a bit of planning, it’s still possible to get around by public buses. If you can afford it (and have an international driver’s licence), you can also rent a car in any of the bigger cities on the island (like Takamatsu, Matsuyama, Kochi or Tokushima.

When to visit Shikoku?

Like in most parts of Japan, the climate on Shikoku is temperate, so the ideal time to visit the island mostly depends on your personal preference. We went in summer and were rewarded with pleasant, warm and mostly dry weather.

Spring is the time for Hanami , the viewing of the cherry blossoms, which begins in late March in Shikoku (earlier than in most parts of the country), while Momijigari season in autumn sees the leaves turn beautifully red beginning in the middle of November (later than in most parts of the country).

How long to stay on Shikoku?

There are many rewarding sights on Shikoku. We spend 10 days there, which to us seemed like a sufficient time to see the highlights of the island. I’d say a week is probably the minimum, while you could easily spend a month and more without getting bored.

You can see how to make the best of a week on Shikoku here.

Daily Shikoku Budget

Most travelers would probably agree that while it’s a beautiful and hugely rewarding country to visit, Japan is not exactly Asia at its cheapest. That said, it’s always possible to find more affordable options and with a bit of planning and the willingness to stay in dorms and eat street-food, visiting Japan is not exclusively for the better off.

While still not exactly a budget destination, we also found Shikoku to be in general a slightly more affordable part of the country to explore than some of the more popular destinations, especially around southern Honshu (like Toyko, Kyoto, Osaka, etc.). You can browse accommodation options for all budgets in the map below:

The bigger cities on Shikoku all have several hostels and affordable bed and breakfasts , where a bed in a dormitory will set you back about 2,000 to 2,500¥, while a meal in an Izakaya (bar-restaurant) or Udon Noodle Shop costs about 1,000 to 1,500¥.

A great way to occasionally save food expenses is to get snacks like bento boxes or onigiri in the ubiquitous 7–11 supermarkets. Transport is 2,000¥ to 3,000¥ per day if you get a multi day regional JR-Pass (see “How to get around” section). Finally, expect to pay about 1,000 to 1,500¥ a day for entrance fees to various museums, castles, parks etc.

Altogether, Stefanie and I paid about 6,000¥ per person per day (about 45€ / 50$) which is a realistic backpacking budget. You can easily double that if plan on getting private rooms and want to regularly eat in midrange restaurants.

Short Facts about Shikoku

Population: approx. 3.85 Mio.

Biggest City: Matsuyama (approx. 500,000 inhabitants)

Official Language: Japanese (English is spoken mainly in bigger cities)

Size: approx. 18,800 km2

Currency: Japanese Yen (¥)

Electrical Sockets: Type A and B

2 thoughts on “ The Ultimate Backpacking Guide to Shikoku – Getting off the Beaten Track in Japan ”

Hi, can I fly a 2.5inch FPV drone in Shikoku Japan?

We didn’t bring a drone, so I can’t give you any firsthand information. I assume that, like in most countries, there are areas where you’re allowed to fly them and areas where it’s prohibited. There’s nothing specific about Shikoku, but you can have a look at the national laws here: https://uavcoach.com/drone-laws-in-japan/

Hope this helps! Reinhard

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Done the Camino? Try tackling Japan’s 88-temple Shikoku Trail

This challenging pilgrimage route takes in Buddhist temples, mist-shrouded mountains, steamy baths, and ages-old cultural traditions.

Bow respectfully at the temple gate. Cleanse hands and mouth at the fountain. Sound the bell. Leave a name slip with your wish in the main hall, light a candle and three sticks of incense, toss coins in the offering box, and chant sutras. Get your pilgrimage book stamped. Exit the gate, and bow again. Follow the red markers to the next temple.

Repeat 87 times.

Or not. On the Shikoku Henro , one of the longest pilgrim routes in Japan , there are many ancient customs but few hard-and-fast rules. You don’t even have to walk it: Many Japanese now take cars or bus tours; others ride trains or bikes. You can tackle the trail counterclockwise instead of clockwise. Or break the circuit into segments. You can wear the traditional white vest or look like an ad for REI—as most of us did on the small-group tour I joined last September to hopscotch a section of seven temples.

“Buddhism is more a way of life than a religion that tells you what you can or can’t do,” said David Moreton, a Shikoku-based researcher specializing in the Henro. “However, showing respect is important.”

Travelers’ interest in long-distance walks is at an all-time high. The famed Camino de Santiago in Spain saw a record 446,000 pilgrims last year. The Henro sees a fraction of that. Nevertheless, the numbers of walkers and foreign visitors seem to be rising.

The circular route crosses all four prefectures of Shikoku, Japan’s fourth largest island. As befits its evolution over a millennium, the Henro is a bit of a patchwork. The road to enlightenment runs through small family farms, busy highways, and suburban streets punctuated by vending machines. But the route also reveals expansive coastal views and Edo-period landscapes straight out of a Hiroshige woodblock print.

Visiting Shikoku’s 88-temple trail

The most obvious place to start was Temple 1, in Tokushima Prefecture in the island’s northeast. Next to its carp-filled pond, Jun Hashiba, a guide for Kyoto -based tour company Oku Japan , attempted to answer questions about how a Japanese monk born in the eighth century inspired the development of an over 700-mile circuit of 88 temples still in use more than a thousand years later. “Everyone knows Kukai; we study him in school,” said Hashiba.

Born on this island, Kukai founded one of the country’s more popular sects of Buddhism, called Shingon. He’s revered, but not only for his esoteric teachings, which are aptly named. “We mostly admire him for his abilities as a poet, scholar, and artist; he was a great calligrapher,” said Hashiba. The peripatetic and polymathic Kukai’s real-life feats morphed into the stuff of legend and eventually led to the popularization of the current route. Hashiba suggested the real answers would come once we started walking.

The four-mile section from Temple 20 to Temple 21 was lined with cathedral-high cypress, cedar, and bamboo. Rope-garlanded boulders, the embodiment of deities, kept us company, as did vermilion-bibbed stone statuettes, called jizo, which are guardians of children and travelers. Kukai, also called Kobo Daishi, was here too, personified in the pilgrim’s walking staff inscribed with words that translate to “traveling together.”

(These Japanese prayer plaques became symbols of hope.)

“When I walk, I sometimes think too much, but I keep walking, and then I think of nothing—in a good way,” said Tomoko Imaizumi, a guide who has made the pilgrimage four times.

At the Temple of the Great Dragon (21), a part of which dates from the 12th century, it was easy to see why so many religions built their altars atop mountains. In his writings, Kukai claimed to have climbed to the hilltop aerie and chanted mantras a million times. Despite Shingon Buddhism’s opacity, at its core is this: that everything is part of a cosmic whole and that enlightenment can be achieved by ordinary people. “I have received so many blessings from the Henro,” said Kizumi, a woman I met at Temple 6 (Temple of Everlasting Joy). She didn’t give me her last name, but she did press into my hand a pale green friendship bracelet made of string.

The trail’s culture of kindness

Indeed, pilgrims along the trail invariably spoke of the kindnesses of the locals. This is the culture of osettai, a unique feature of the Shikoku pilgrimage. “I experience this almost every day as a pilgrim,” said Imaizumi. “Usually it’s a mandarin or some sweets; one time a woman stopped her car and jumped out to give me 300 yen.”

Close to the Vulture Peak Temple (1), our group met Ranshu Yano, master of the dwindling art of ai-zome. The Tokushima region produces natural indigo for dyeing. Indigo textiles were once used in samurai clothing.

Yano invited us into his workshop to watch a portion of the painstaking process. He slid the lid off a large vat. The blue stew needed to be inspected, stirred, and allowed to ferment.

“It’s a living thing,” he said, holding up permanently blue hands. “I have to feel it.” The finished textiles are fashioned into exquisite kimonos.

(The mystery of Japan’s traditional washi paper.)

On the Henro, gifts come in all forms, not least of which is the chance to connect with people still tied to the land, still bound to artistry and traditions long abandoned in other places. “People have been doing what I do for a thousand years,” Yano said. “I stand in the middle, between the past and the future.”

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Shikoku: Japan’s Mystical And Laidback Island You Should Really Visit

A glimpse of the slow-paced island life.

by Brand Studio Updated on March 3, 2022

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A country that’s captured the attention of the curious since time immemorial, you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere on earth quite like Japan. Alongside gravity-defying skyscrapers, Kawaii culture, and those iconic bullet trains sits something far more tranquil: a peaceful and relatively untouched oasis where traditional culture reigns supreme .

It’s time to delve deep between The Land of the Rising Sun’s distinctive cities to discover its true heart: idyllic rural paradises set amongst some of the country’s most photogenic scenery.

Nestled within the tranquil Seto Inland Sea and the expansive Pacific Ocean, between Osaka and Hiroshima, Shikoku—the smallest and least populous of Japan’s four main islands —is waiting to be explored. Deep dramatic valleys, crystal clear rivers, coastal fishing villages, forested mountains shrouded in mist and mystery, shimmering inland seas, and a seductively slow pace of life : just some of the magic you’ll find here.

This mystical island of staggering natural beauty promises a glimpse into a more traditional Japan, where you can experience wild and untamed natural landscapes and a burgeoning arts scene, walk centuries-old streets, follow the footsteps of ancient Buddhist pilgrims, learn the secrets of local traditional crafts and sample some of Japan’s most recognizable dishes.

It’s easy to lose track of time exploring Shikoku. So, to make the most of your travel in this extraordinary place, here’s where to sleep, what to eat, and where to go.

Kagawa Prefecture

You’ll want to explore Ogijima on foot, as this tiny island’s streets are steep and narrow. Picturesque and quaint, its less than 200-person population ensures that the pace of life here remains suitably tranquil. So, relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of simple island living . While you’re here, you’ll want to check out the Ogijima Lighthouse on the north side of the island, a pleasant 30-minute stroll from the port.

Where to stay? We’d always recommend Dorima-no-Ue , a sustainable guesthouse run by Kobayashi Miyoko. Staying here is endlessly enjoyable and fulfilling; feast upon organic meals made from ingredients sourced from Miyoko’s own farm or partake in traditional activities like mochitsuk i, a popular activity that involves rice pounding with a wooden mallet and pestle to make mochi (rice cake). It’s luxury travel with a sustainable twist.

Teshima Island is another unmissable spot known as much for its natural beauty as for its culture and art scene.

Teshima Island is best explored by electric bike in order to make the most out of this picturesque corner of Japan (especially if you only have one day). You’ll find several e-bike rental shops here at the port, which cost around 1,000 yen for four hours and an extra 100 yen per additional hour. E-bikes have the advantage here for tackling the steep roads, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking scenery. (Conveniently, some shops can store your luggage for a small fee while you are out.)

Sitting on a hilltop with panoramic vistas of the blue Inland Sea, Teshima Art Museum and Teshima Tanada Project are two of the most popular activities here.

Launched as part of the Setouchi Triennale art festival, the Art Museum is a vast concrete structure with a dome that curves just above the grass, filled with skylights that play with light and shadows. Here, nature, art, and architecture intimately interconnect, offering a truly peaceful and immersive experience like no other. Sit or stand in complete silence, with nothing but the soothing sound of nature.

Outside, Teshima Tanada Project’s stunningly lush paddy fields (restored in collaboration with local residents) serve as a beautiful backdrop.

While on Teshima Island, stay at Yui-AKEDA in a renovated kominka (a traditional Japanese house) that’s perfectly situated for both sunrise and sunset views over Teshima Ieura Port.

Tokushima Prefecture

Tokushima Prefecture has something for every traveler from mountain hikes to historic streets to the famed Awa Odori dance festival. 

There’s plenty to do and see here, starting with the unusual Edo Period architecture admired on Udatsu machi-nami street in Mima City. The udatsu are smart and decorative clay walls, intended to stop the fire from spreading from house to house.

Here, both the buildings and traditional Japanese crafts seem preserved in time.

Stroll through the beautiful main street of this charming historic townscape with no exposed power lines in sight, and peek into some of the buildings (today, mainly museums and workshops) for fascinating sightings like the art of Japanese umbrella making.

While you’re here, check out the 90-minute hands-on indigo-dyeing experience in Udatsu to learn the history (dating back 800 years!) of natural indigo dyeing, known as aizome .

Choose the small objects you wish to dye (i.e handkerchiefs or eco bags) and follow the instructions of the artisan in charge, Okubo-san.

Or get your hand (and feet) in the world of woodworking. The Saitō Woodworks is where you can make your own mini-geta, a tiny pair of Japanese wooden sandals resembling the styles worn by geisha and maiko.

Then, cross Iya Kazura Vine Bridge and feel a world away. This 45m long historic bridge spans the Iya River and is the most popular of the three remaining braided vines bridges (a total of 13 once crossed the remote and mystical valley).

Crossing this swinging bridge at 14 m above the rushing river with its wide-spread, worn planks makes for a thrilling (yet safe) adventure.

Those with a taste for Japanese cooking will thoroughly enjoy a soba noodle-making experience, known as MenmeJuku . Run by Tsuzuki-san, a 76-year-old woman who grew up here in the Iya Valley, it’s a wonderfully delicious few hours finishing with a meal of your own: cooked noodles served with local delicacies.

You should stay at Iya Guesthouse Momonga Village , a budget-friendly spot with five private rooms or dormitory-style rooms, which are affordably priced and suitable for all kinds of travelers. Not only is this place filled with more of Tokushima’s beautiful views, it’s also a great landing spot for nearby rafting adventures.

Adventurous travelers will enjoy Go Go Adventure’s rafting experience, which allows you to explore the wilderness areas around nearby rivers.

There are several options for tour lengths from about half a day to a full day, which traverse the Oboke Gorge and some of the best whitewater rapids in Japan.

Flotation devices come standard, so this experience is accessible for even the less experienced swimmers among us. Tours are available year-round but are most pleasant in the summer when the water and air temperatures are warm. 

Kochi Prefecture

Kochi Prefecture is rural and chilled out, filled with mythical mountains and pastel-hued landscapes. There are endless opportunities for cultural activities here, ranging from traditional crafts to eating and drinking or simply exploring the prefecture’s gorgeous nature.

Start your time here with a trip to the Nakatsu Gorge, setting up camp for a few nights at Yu-no-Mori . Set deep in the mountains, this ryokan is home to four spacious Japanese rooms and three cottages complete with views of the river and their own private cypress baths.

The main building also features both an indoor onsen (hot spring) bath and a rotenburo (open-air hot spring bath) – one pair for each gender. The restaurant serves meals made with local products, including vegetables from an organic farm in nearby Ochi Town. On a clear moonless night, you can admire incredible views of the night sky.

The Nakatsu river , a tributary of Niyodo River, here runs through Nakatsu Gorge , a rugged area with a 2.3-kilometer path running over and along the river, ending at Uryu no Taki waterfall. Its translucent blue (known as “Niyodo Blue”) water is best admired during the summer months or when the autumn foliage complements the water beautifully.

For a real adventure, a company called Niyodo Adventure can guide you into the gorge for a 3-hour tour involving rappelling, wading in the river, and jumping into deep pools of water from boulders as you make your way downstream.

It would be rude to leave Japan without learning more about the country’s famous sake , and where better to broaden your knowledge than at the Keigetsu Sake Brewery ? 

Keigetsu Sake Brewery has been producing award-winning sake for years, using a unique yeast that can only be produced locally. They’ve also created some unique and popular sparkling sakes, which can be tasted in the showroom free of charge.

Stop for lunch at Cha Café Asunaro , a cozy roadside restaurant where all meals are made using locally produced Sawatari green tea. Sit outdoors for beautiful views of the Niyodo River below, while digging into a simple but delicious meal of green tea udon noodles, and green tea waffles.

YusuharaTown should be your next stop, a small, rugged logging town in rural Kochi Prefecture that’s home to some incredibly beautiful buildings designed by world-famous architect Kengo Kuma.

The Yusuhara “Kumo no Ue” Library (Library Above The Clouds) is one of the best spots, along with the Kumo no Ue Gallery and Bridge, a breathtaking structure of cedar that seems to balance in the air on a single beam. The traditionally styled tea house at the Yusuhara Town Office stands as a welcoming symbol of the local history and culture.

Japanese style paper making is another popular way to spend an afternoon in YusuharaTown, which you might have heard of as “ Kamikoya “. This washi paper-making studio uses plants like mulberry tree bark and vegetable okra in this relaxing craft. Make your own simple sheet of washi paper in a matter of hours, or spend a night or so to learn more advanced techniques.

Next? Admire the natural scenes – up close and personal. Shimanto River is Japan’s last crystal clear river , and it’s worth spending a couple of nights around here simply to soak up its magic. 

Start your time here by checking into Seiran-no-Sato , a small-scale hotel on the banks of the river. The hotel sits in a remote location in the mountains, about 30 minutes east of Yusuhara. Expect contemporary Japanese style, gorgeous views of the river on a 24/7 basis, and a bright, friendly restaurant serving up traditional local food cooked by local ladies.

There’s one experience here you’d struggle to find elsewhere: the unique “chairing” experience . Here, you can rent an outdoor chair for 1,000 yen and sit in the middle of the nearby shallow Shimanto River to cool your heels. Take your favorite book or cold drink and enjoy the sense of tranquillity that envelops you.

While Kochi Prefecture might be known for being mostly rural, Kochi City is a taste into a slightly more bustling lifestyle. Wandering around without too much thought is probably the best way to explore the city itself, but there are a few bucket-list items that should be on everyone’s list.

Hirome Market is a collection of about 65 stalls of mainly food vendors in the heart of Kochi City, loved as much by tourists as it is by locals for its array of fresh local specialties. Try the katsuo-no-tataki, a seared, smoky bonito tuna seasoned with sliced garlic, sliced onion, and yuzu ponzu or salt with some local sake or a cold beer.

It’s located conveniently close to 400-year old Kochi Castle , one of the 12 remaining original castles in Japan, and the only castle in Japan which still has its original keep and tower intact. This formidable fortress sits among stunning grounds framed with cherry blossom trees. Visit in the spring to witness Kochi castle colored in pink with Japan’s famed blooms.

Finally, Chikurin-ji temple , the 31st temple on the famous 88-temple Shikoku pilgrimage, is another spot for history buffs through to anyone who appreciates a journey into the past.

Climb a steep set of stone stairs, which feels a little like a trip back in time, to try spiritual exercises like meditation and sutra copying or just a wander around the peaceful grounds of the temple and its natural beauty.

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SHIKOKU TOURS

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Booking a Holiday with Shikoku Tours

We offer a range of preplanned tours, based on years of experience. These tours are designed to show you the best of Shikoku, efficiently and in comfort. We’ve found that a charter vehicle with your own driver is the best way to get around – you won’t get lost, you don’t have to carry your own luggage, and you can go to the many places in Shikoku not served by public transport. Where public transport makes sense, we use it. Our tours are ideal for couples or small groups.

Popular Multiday Tours

These are some of our popular multiday tours. There are more in the Multiday Tour section. Please note that where departure dates are not shown, these are private tours where you can set the date at your own convenience.

88 Temple Pilgrimage

Visit all 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage in a comfortable private vehicle, staying at a variety of accommodation.

88 Temple Pilgrimage and Mt. Kōya

Visit all 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage in a comfortable private vehicle, finishing your Ohenro journey at Mt. Kōya.

Shikoku for Solo Travellers

A tour of Shikoku for single travellers visiting the most interesting sights of Ehime and Kagawa, and islands in the Seto Inland Sea.

Shikoku Pilgrimage with Walks

Visit the most beautiful and interesting temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage and walk the toughest trails.

Best of Shikoku Pilgrimage

Experience the most beautiful and interesting temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage in seven days.

Best of Shikoku Taxi Tour in June

Experience the best that Shikoku has to offer in five days. Starts March 30.

Shimanami Kaidō Cycling

Cycle the islands and bridges of the Shimanami Kaidō over the Seto Inland Sea.

Best of Shikoku Taxi Tour

Experience the best that Shikoku has to offer in five days.

Unique Accommodation of Shikoku

A tour for families or friends, staying in the most characterful kominka and ryokan of Shikoku.

Shikoku Castles and Culture Tour

Visit Shikoku’s well-preserved castles and experience the best of the island’s culture.

Best of Shikoku by E-bike and SUP

This adventure takes you from the Seto Inland Sea to the Pacific by e-bike and SUP.

Ehime Gourmet and Sake

Explore the wonderful food and sake of Ehime

Popular Single Day Tours

These single and half day guided tours are an ideal introduction to Shikoku. Please note that   these are private tours where you can set the date at your own convenience.

Shimanami Kaidō Experience

Cycle the Shimanami Kaidō and cruise the Seto Inland Sea.

Pilgrimage Trail in Ehime

Hike the most strenuous pilgrimage trails to the best temples in Ehime.

Matsuyama Castle and Dōgo

A day trip to explore two iconic places in Matsuyama.

Matsuyama Geisha Entertainment

Experience traditional geisha performing arts and hospitality in Dōgo, Matsuyama.

Pilgrimage Trail in Kagawa

Hike the most strenuous pilgrimage trails to the best temples in Kagawa.

The Silk Road in Western Ehime

Learn about silk manufacture in the western towns of Nomura and Yawatahama.

Pilgrimage Trail in Tokushima

Hike the most strenuous pilgrimage trails to the best temples in Tokushima.

Pilgrimage Trail in Kōchi

Hike the most strenuous pilgrimage trails to the best temples in Kōchi.

Reliable & Transparent

We prioritize transparency and reliability, ensuring that you can confidently rely on us for accurate information and exceptional customer satisfaction.

Competitive Rates

We understand the importance of offering competitive rates and exclusive deals, providing you with the best value for your money without compromising on quality.

Flexible Options

Whether you have fixed travel dates or require flexibility, we provide a range of options to accommodate your schedule, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free travel experience tailored to your needs.

Memorable Experiences

We are passionate about creating memorable experiences that touch your heart. We go the extra mile to recommend unique local adventures and personalize your trip, ensuring that your travel experience is truly unforgettable.

Regional Focus

Shikoku Travel Blogs

Monobegawa, Kōchi

Indigo Crafts

Takamatsu Top Ten

Upcoming Attractions

Yosakoi Festival

Uwajima Ushioni Festival

Tsuruhime Festival

Awa Dance Festival

Testimonials.

We were a family group of two couples, following the "Unique Accommodation of Shikoku" itinerary, customized for our needs. The accommodations were unique as promised; several on a very small scale where we could connect to the proprietors who were uniformly enthusiastic hosts. All (or most) meals were included, and we were treated generously to regional specialties. My vegetarian requests were fulfilled with delicious options.

We were able to get e-bikes to make a morning on the Shimanami Kaido bike path, a delight on our first day. We spent two nights in the Iya valley in a renovated farmhouse with a large hearth where we gathered for food and fun with the proprietor's family. Schedule changes forced by weather were as much fun as the original plans, including a river boat ride, and visit to a traditional indigo factory. Our driver spoke English and answered a million questions.

We added an extra, the geisha dinner for the night before our trip started, and were blown away with how much fun we had. Our "geiko" was the consummate hostess, and we even got to try out the musical instruments (we are musicians). We left exhilarated; it was the perfect start to our adventure. Shikoku Tours really delivered the goods, and I recommend it highly.

Shinsuke, Mari and Kumiko welcomed me in their Kominka during 3 amazing days. This experience appears to me as the highlight of my Japanese trip. We cooked soba and sushi together. They took me to their favorite places in the Iya Valley, where I discovered very peaceful and charming viewpoints. Their traditional home also offers a spectacular view where no one can disturb you apart from the birds. My heartfelt thanks to ShikokuTours who organized this trip with great professionalism and support all along the way!

I just completed half of the Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimage through Shikoku Tours. Beforehand they worked closely and patiently with me to meet my needs. Everything went perfectly, from my driver who ensured that I was always comfortable, to the carefully chosen lodgings and thoughtfully scheduled temple visits.

My wife and I enjoyed cycling the Shimamanai Kaido route, there is enough time to go explore some of the intermediate and advanced routes. The accommodations were great. We had good communication and support from the company when we had a misunderstanding about a reservation. Rod was easy to deal with and shared good suggestions we used about places to eat and drink at and we enjoyed our tour.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to learn about Japan and do not want to be around tourists. By traveling this lovely island and experiencing temples, castles, gardens, seashore, mountains without other tourists is wonderful. The tour is perfect for open-minded travelers who don't mind seeing as many temples as they have time for - each one is different, beautiful, old, and differently located. If speaking English is important, this is not the tour.

Thanks for arranging such a unique tour.

Rod provided an exceptional tour. He was friendly, informative, flexible, and very easy to work with. He had great suggestions on best sites and best itinerary. We would recommend him without any reservation. Thanks Rod for a great day!

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip with Shikoku Tours and the interactions with the agent, Rod Walters, and our driver. The trip was customized to meet our desire to visit several of the temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage route and our driver had a lot of knowledge about the places we visited and areas we traveled through. This was a great value for the money spent and we will recommend them to others and use them when we return.

My wife and myself would like to express our thanks and appreciation to you and your team for a well thought out itinerary that gave us a full flavor of Shikoku from all aspects. Key is the varied accommodation that you guys have arranged. It’s was so awe inspiring. My wife favorite is the modern one just inland from shimantoand my favouriteis the one in iyavalley. I will be recommending my friends to you guys for in future.

If it weren't for the tour we would not have been able to navigate the region on our own. Our intent was to do a mini pilgrimage not knowing Tokushima and Takamatsu are urban areas and you need to go a good distance to reach certain temples in the back of beyond. Views in that hill country were spectacular --Tairyuji cable car, the riveting blue of the river, ancient cypresses -- and hair raising. Glad my sister was not driving!

Once the driver understood our serious intent we got tips about special views, proper spots for prayer and an introduction to the priest at our last temple. Our earlier impression was that most pilgrims have little interaction with temple staff much less entry into temple inner spaces. The priest gave us a full tour replete with explanation of Shingon lineage and significance of the small temple.

Yes, it was as they say Sugoi!

Everything went fine. The cloud cover stayed in place in the mountains and the heat was much easier to bear. Climbing to Iwayaji was a bit of a struggle for me but I trudged along patiently. I was surprised by how much I remembered from last year, recalling temple 44 as soon as we approached it on the road. We passed the inn where I stayed last fall.

I want to put in a good word about our driver. He did an excellent job. He was most helpful to us throughout the day in ways I am sure were more than what could be expected. He made things easy and enjoyable.

And I want to express my gratitude to you. Despite the heat, we enjoyed our day with you very much. And because of you I have been able to visit the pilgrimage temples which is quite important to me. I hope to have the chance to see you again soon.

And so tomorrow we move on the Hiroshima and a baseball game. There's still much to see and do before we return to our everyday lives.

All our best wishes.

Once the driver understood our serious intent we got tips about special views, proper spots for prayer and an introduction to the priest at our last temple. Our earlier impression was that most pilgrims have little interaction with temple staff much less entry into temple inner spaces. The priest gave us a full tour replete with explanation of Shingon lineage and signi

Safe and sound in Onomichi after returning from Habu by ferry to Imabari and bussing back here. Sal’s rear end was not able to face too much more cycling and by going from Habu we only missed one bridge to the end and about 15 km of the Shimanami Kaido. We thoroughly enjoyed the cycling and the accommodation.

Thank you for your arrangement of this part of our holiday. Going off the beaten track and exploring parts of Shikoku Island was wonderful and the stay at Suminoe Ryokan was a delight. You provided real highlights of our Japanese holiday.

We propose giving your name to a few friends in Australia that are contemplating Japanese holidays in the near future and hopefully you may be able to assist them plot out a holiday; hopefully without the constraints of Golden Week.

Thanks again for the arrangement and support along the way.

Cheers, John

It was a very enjoyable trip. My wife and I will surely remember it for many many years. The itinerary was carefully drafted, the hotels were nice, the food was delicious and the temples were cherry-picked. Our driver Mr Katou is very professional. He is punctual, hardworking and attentive to details. In fact, his English is not bad at all.

Everything is simply fantastic.

We have to thank you again, Rod, for giving us such a memorable trip. The only criticism is that you sent too many colleagues to receive us at the airport! But thank you anyway.

Mary and I very much enjoyed the sea kayaking today. Our guide was excellent and even swam off to find us some local sea life to look at (including an octopus!).

Our guide had given us a CD with photos on that he took on the trip, once we are back from our holiday next week I'd be glad to look through and share.

Thanks for organising this for us,

I was a difficult customer: I got in touch with Shikoku Tours just over two weeks before our visit, with a list of demands: the art festival, serious hiking along the Henro and Mt Tsurugi, the 24 Eyes movie village - and all appropriate for my young sons too. Rod rose to the challenge, and spent hours with me crafting our week, providing details down to bus and train times, and unerringly picking interesting, great places for us to stay. Thank you, Rod, for a wonderful week.

Google Reviews

It was really easy and convenient to book with Shikoku Tours, just a few exchanges of ideas via emails, and our trip was finalised. Payment was hassle free too. Clear ... Read More instructions and information were given. On the day of the trip, we were greeted by the most pleasant and courteous driver, Mr Horai, outside our hotel. He drove skillfully and carefully through the winding mountain road, we felt very safe with him. We were able to complete the itinerary due to his precise time management and superb driving. Special note of thanks to our coordinator, Ms Ayaka. She was so helpful and patient with our enquiries. Thank you Shikoku Tours, for making our trip a memorable one! :)

A big thank you to the team at Shikoku Tours for putting together the perfect tour of Shikoku. During the planning phase we shared that we’d like to bike ... Read More the Shiminami Kaido, hike parts of the 88 Temple Pilgrimage and explore the Iya Valley. Our final itinerary included all this and more! With Shikoku Tours we saw so much more than we would have on our own. Rod, our hiking and biking guide, is a wealth of Shikoku, Buddhism and Shinto knowledge. Shimizu-San, our driver, safely shuttled us to the starting point of each day’s activity and patiently waited for us at the end. Rod and Shimizu-San made a great team. Our accommodations were all very comfortable and most had stunning views. The included meals were some of the best we had in all of Japan. We highly recommend Shikoku Tours!!!

We loved our customized tour with Shikoku Tours. Our guide, Fujisan was fun and engaging but not too much. Just right. We went from west to east and stayed in ... Read More a variety of accommodations. Fujisan is a multi talented guy and loved coffee as much as we did. We wanted to learn more about Sake and we did. We changed the itinerary a bit depending on our interests and the weather. It would have been impossible to experience the variety of places without Shikoku Tours. Thank you!!

Rod Walters put together an amazing custom trip for us. We started our correspondence asking if we could modify a cab tour, and in the end Rod understood our ... Read More interests, timeline and travel style and put together a fantastic tour with drivers and guides. He understood our interests and even suggested things we were not previously aware of but loved. In a short, yet comfortable time frame, we saw the Noguchi Museum, Kompira Shrine, Ritsurin garden, Teshima and Kurashiki and more. His choice of lodgings delighted us too. We could not recommend Rod and Shikoku Tours more highly.

Last July, we decided that we wanted to hike a portion of the 88 Temple walk in Shikoku, Japan, in the Fall. After researching available tours on the internet, we ... Read More contacted Shikoku Tours and discovered that we could customize a tour with a guide and a van with a driver. We worked directly with Rod at Shikoku Tours by email and agreed on a tour to include over 20 temples in all prefectures of Shikoku over an 8 day period in October at a price that was acceptable for all of us. We booked our own flights over on Japan Airlines to Tokyo Haneda with a 2 hour layover and connecting JAL flight to Matsuyama. The connections were flawless and the hotel in Matsuyama which was booked by Shikoku Tours was an excellent choice. We enjoyed a free day there and then met our guide and driver the next morning. Tomo was our guide and Toshi was our driver for the next 8 days. Tomo was the best individual guide we had ever worked with in many years of travel all over the world. She was very knowledgeable, organized, friendly, caring, and helpful. Toshi was an excellent driver and the new van was always spotless. We hiked every day between temples and visited on average 4 temples a day with our extensive hiking and rides in the van. It was all an incredible and flawless adventure and so amazing to visit remote temples hundreds of years old and with hardly any visitors. In fact, with Tomo’s help, we exceeded our goal and visited 28 temples and really were introduced to so much more in Shikoku, including a stay in a 200 year old house in a small fishing village on the coast. . Shikoku Tours did an excellent job in arranging everything for us, in supplying a truly excellent guide and in making us really want to return to Shikoku to visit more of the 88 temples with Shikoku Tours. Highly recommended!!!

I had such a wonderful time in Shikoku! The whole adventure was put together so well, with every little detail well thought out and executed perfectly.

If you are going to Japan, please do not miss out on visiting some of the beautiful places that are beyond the usual tourist sites. The island of Shikoku is ... Read More special. You will see why when you go there, and find an incredible amount of diversity in the landscapes, the food, and the culture in each region of the island. Though I have traveled around many parts of Japan, it is the people who I met on Shikoku who I left feeling the most connected to, thanks to their warmth, kindness, and sense of humor. Shikoku Tours will be the perfect people to guide your explorations here. While you can find details online about things to do and places to stay on Shikoku, you'll will have a richer experience if you allow Shikoku Tours to do your planning. On a recent trip, Shikoku Tours sent me to a small seaside town that has nothing written about it in any of the Japan travel sites or blogs. At first I wasn't sure why I was going, but Shikoku Tours knew my interests and recommended a night there. I stayed in a beautiful private home with the most incredible host, met several interesting local people who are focused on revitalizing the area, and had one of the most memorable meals with the local people I met. Nothing beats local knowledge when it comes to travel, and the first-hand insights and relationships that Shikoku Tours has will take your trip from the typical tourist track to an unexpected discovery that opens you up to something new.

We had a wonderful week with Shikoku Tours, touring Washi paper making facilities and learning in depth knowledge about the paper making craft. Rod was the perfect host, and he ... Read More was very knowledgeable about the culture, the language, the areas we visited and all of the things we needed help with. I cannot imagine how different our trip would have been without his top-not interpreting skills and excellent guidance. I am so happy we mad the decision to see Shikoku before the other parts of Japan. I think some of the more rural and historic areas in Shikoku were definitely the most beautiful parts of the country at large. Rod was very knowledgable about the area's history, and shared in depth details that really helped us get a full understanding of the people and places we visited. I cannot imagine a better fit for a tour of this area. He had special connections to some of the business owners and restaurant owners that were very helpful. And the accommodations he recommended were top notch. We were extremely happy with Shikoku Tours!

Shikoku Tours arranged a private tour for us that covered four corners of the island. Our driver/guide paid attention to every detail and made sure everything went smoothly. The ... Read More island is rich in culture, history, and unspoiled natural settings. It was a great experience!

Great tour with Fuji-san. We were promptly picked up at our first location and ushered along a 3 day tour of the Shikoku region. Each location had a different unique ... Read More experience ranging from busy city to rural town, all places were well picked and curated for our enjoyment. Along the ride we were treated to various mini stops ranging from a spectacular view to a small hike and even a stop at the fantastic vine bridge. We ended our tour with a deeper knowledge and appreciation for this part of Japan. Many thanks to Shikoku tours and Fujiyama-san for making this a memorable experience.

What a great trip . The walking was demanding , but very satisfying. Our guide Tomoko & driver Fuji were absolutely fantastic they helped make the trip very memorable.They were ... Read More great fun and so accommodating. Definitely 5 star plus

Shikoku Tours did a fabulous job of picking just the right locations on Shikoku, picking our wonderful driver/guide - Fuji-san. From arranging our amazing Geisha dinner in Matsuyama, to ... Read More the Iya Valley, to the vine bridge, exploring the beautiful coast and visiting beautiful shrines and temples. The choice of lodging was always excellent. We had some rain, and Fuji-san was able to rearrange some of our activities that needed to be inside rather than outside - with apparent ease. We loved our time on Shikoku and highly recommend Shikoku Tours.

We did a self-guided walking trip with private transport. Well organised, with lots of detailed information on sites/sights. GPS system needs prepping but works well once set up properly. Our ... Read More driver was reliable and amiable too!

Our trip with Shikoku Tours was a wonderful experience and gave us a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of Shikoku’s sites, the spiritual aspect of the pilgrimage, culture and food. ... Read More Our Shikoku Tour guides were amazing. They had extensive local knowledge and were easy to get along with, personable and fun. Not to mention, their very impressive photography skills. We have some of the best travel photos ever. The drivers/guides took good care of us, and we felt safe at all times. The itinerary and the guides were adaptable to options and our requests. Our Shikoku food experiences compared to our previous experiences with Japanese food were nothing short of extraordinary. You must try the Bonito Fish experience in Kochi. And you must definitely try Shikoku Tours.

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The Asahi Shimbun

Eight injured after earthquake rocks Shikoku and Kyushu

THE ASAHI SHIMBUN

April 18, 2024 at 13:15 JST

The first earthquake to register an intensity of lower 6 on the main western island of Shikoku injured eight people and disrupted traffic but caused no tsunami, authorities said.

The offshore earthquake hit at 11:14 p.m. on April 17 with an estimated magnitude of 6.6.

An intensity of lower 6 on the Japanese seismic scale of 7 was recorded in the town of Ainan in Ehime Prefecture and the city of Sukumo in Kochi Prefecture, both on Shikoku.

The island had never experienced an earthquake with an intensity of lower 6 or stronger since the current seismic scale was introduced in 1996.

Five people in Ehime Prefecture and one person in Kochi Prefecture were injured, while two were hurt in Oita Prefecture, which is on the southwestern main island of Kyushu.

Shikoku Electric Power Co. said power generation output fell about 2 percent at the No. 3 reactor of the Ikata nuclear power plant in Ehime Prefecture.

The utility said no radiation leaks were observed around the plant, and that it will take about a day to inspect and restore the facility.

Shikoku Railway Co. said service on the Yodo Line is expected to be canceled throughout April 18 between Uwajima Station in Uwajima, Ehime Prefecture, and Kubokawa Station in Shimanto, Kochi Prefecture.

The Uwakai limited express train on the Yosan Line will suspend its runs until around noon on April 18 between Uwajima and Matsuyama stations, both in Ehime Prefecture.

According to the land ministry, traffic has been closed on a section of National Route 197 in Ozu, Ehime Prefecture, due to fallen rocks.

Traffic has been regulated on parts of prefectural roads in Ehime and Kochi prefectures.

The quake’s focus was in the Bungo Channel, which separates Ehime Prefecture on Shikoku and Oita Prefecture on Kyushu.

It is in an area where seismologists have long anticipated a megaquake known as the Nankai Trough earthquake to occur.

However, Japan Meteorological Agency officials told a news conference on April 18 that they do not believe the latest quake has sharply raised the megaquake’s probability.

They said the seismic mechanism was different from the one that is expected to trigger the Nankai Trough earthquake.

The hypocenter of the April 17 quake is estimated to be 39 kilometers deep, indicating it occurred inside the Philippine Sea Plate, which is located deeper than its boundary with the continental plate, JMA officials said.

The megaquake is expected to occur around the boundary between the two plates.

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No link to Nankai Trough quake seen after temblor in Shikoku

A magnitude 6.6 earthquake, measuring a lower 6 on Japan's seismic intensity scale, struck off the west coast of Shikoku island on Wednesday night, but authorities reported no link to a potential Nankai Trough quake.

The quake measured a lower 6 — the third highest level — in the Ehime Prefecture town of Ainan and the Kochi Prefecture city of Sukumo. Striking at a depth of 39 kilometers, its epicenter was in the Bungo Channel, a strait separating the islands of Kyushu and Shikoku.

The temblor left nine people with light injuries in Ehime, Kochi and Oita prefectures, authorities said Thursday morning. Minor damage in some areas, including broken water pipes, fallen streetlights and a landslide on a national roadway, has been reported, but no fires were reported in the quake's aftermath, they said.

Among the injured, a woman in Ainan in her 70s was taken to a hospital after collapsing, according to a local fire department.

No abnormalities have been detected at Shikoku Electric Power's Ikata nuclear power plant in Ehime Prefecture, according to the Nuclear Regulation Authority.

The Meteorological Agency initially reported the quake as magnitude 6.4, but later revised the figure to 6.6.

Satoshi Harada, head of the agency's earthquake and tsunami monitoring division, told a news conference early Thursday that the magnitude of 6.6 is below the 6.8 threshold that would necessitate an investigation into any relation with a Nankai Trough earthquake. He added that while this quake doesn’t meet the criteria for further study in that context, the agency will issue updates and convene expert panels as needed.

Harada noted that seismic activity has remained heightened since the quake. The agency has advised residents of areas hit by the quake to be careful of seismic activity and heavy rainfall for the next week or so, as the risk of house collapses and landslides has increased in areas where the tremors were strong.

The quake has prompted anxieties regarding the possibility of an upcoming Nankai Trough earthquake, which typically occurs every 100-150 years, with the last one occurring 70 years ago.

The Nankai Trough, stretching from the Tokai region to offshore eastern Kyushu, is a hotbed of geological tension where the oceanic plate is subducting beneath the continental plate, accumulating strain at the boundary. Major earthquakes and tsunamis are expected when this tension releases suddenly.

"This earthquake was caused by a fault shift within the plate, which is deeper than the boundary between the plates," Harada explained at the conference.

"At this point, we cannot say whether the probability of a Nankai Trough earthquake has increased or decreased due to this event," he said. The agency will continue to closely monitor the region.

Relatively large earthquakes have occurred in the past in the vicinity of the Bungo Channel, including an earthquake with a maximum intensity of upper 5 in Oita Prefecture in July 2015.

According to NHK, this is the first time since 1996, when the current Japanese seismic intensity scale was introduced, that a tremor of a lower 6 or higher has been observed in Ehime and Kochi prefectures.

For those unaccustomed to large quakes, Wednesday night came as a huge shock.

In the town of Ainan, where the earthquake registered a lower 6, the impact was distinctly felt at a local convenience store. Several cup noodles and sake bottles toppled from the shelves. The clerk described the ordeal: "It started shaking suddenly, then my cell phone's earthquake alert went off. The shaking felt like it lasted a long time, but I managed to hold on by clinging to my desk."

At a nearby Japanese-style pub owned by Keiichi Fujisawa, 50, the tremor caused plates to crash down from shelves. "This was the biggest quake I have ever experienced," he said. "I need to reorganize to ensure nothing dangerous falls next time."

In the city of Seiyo, also in Ehime Prefecture, the quake's intensity was recorded at a lower 5. At a restaurant there, four customers ducked under tables for cover. The owner, a woman in her 80s, expressed her shock. "It reminded me of the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995. I've received several calls checking in on me to make sure I’m safe."

More information:

• An explanation of shindo, Japan's earthquake intensity scale
• A guide to what to before, during and after an earthquake
• Our portal for disaster-related information

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Earthquake jolts southern Japan’s Ehime, Kochi prefectures

TOKYO - An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.4 hit southern Japan late on April 17, said the Japan Meteorological Agency, without issuing a tsunami warning.

The epicentre was the Bungo Channel, a strait separating the Japanese islands of Kyushu and Shikoku, the agency said.

Ehime and Kochi prefectures were hit by the quake with an intensity of 6 on Japan’s 1-7 scale, the JMA said.

Some water pipes burst, but no major damage has been reported, local media said.

Shikoku Electric Power’s Ikata nuclear plant in Ehime prefecture, where one reactor is in operation, reported no irregularities, Japan’s government spokesperson Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters.

Mr Hayashi also warned of a chance of other earthquakes with lower six on the Japanese seismic scale.

Earthquakes are common in Japan, one of the world’s most seismically active areas.

Japan accounts for about one-fifth of the world’s earthquakes of magnitude 6 or greater.

On March 11, 2011, the north-east coast was struck by a magnitude 9 earthquake, the strongest in Japan on record, and a massive tsunami. Those events triggered the world’s worst nuclear crisis since Chernobyl a quarter of a century earlier. REUTERS

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Strong earthquake in southwestern Japan leaves 9 with minor injuries, but no tsunami

TOKYO (AP) — A strong earthquake that struck southwestern Japan late Wednesday left nine people with minor injuries and caused damages such as burst water pipes and small landslides, authorities said, but there was no danger of a tsunami.

The magnitude 6.6 quake was centered just off the western coast of the southwestern main island of Shikoku, in an area called the Bungo Channel, a strait separating Shikoku and the southern main island of Kyushu.

The quake occurred 50 kilometers (30 miles) below the sea's surface and posed no danger of a tsunami, the Japanese Meteorological Agency said.

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency said Thursday that six in Ehime prefecture, two in neighboring Kochi and two others in Oita on Kyushu island suffered minor injuries, mostly from falling at home.

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Water pipes were ruptured at a number of locations in Sukumo City in Kochi prefecture, and grave stones collapsed at a Buddhist temple in Ainan town in Ehime prefecture, according to local media reports. Falling rooftiles were also reported.

The Nuclear Regulation Authority said no abnormalities were reported from four reactors operating at three nuclear power plants in Shikoku and Kyushu.

As part of the Pacific “ring of fire,” Japan is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone areas. The magnitude 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami in March 2011 devastated large areas along Japan’s northeastern coast, killing nearly 20,000 people and triggering the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear meltdowns. On Jan. 1, a magnitude 7.6 quake struck the north-central region of Noto and left 241 people dead.

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News & features, winter center, news / weather news, minor damages reported after 6.6 magnitude earthquake hits japan.

By Doug Cunningham, UPI

Published Apr 18, 2024 4:38 AM PDT | Updated Apr 18, 2024 4:38 AM PDT

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(Credit: Getty images)

April 17 (UPI) -- A 6.6 magnitude earthquake hit Japan at 11:14 p.m. Wednesday local time, off the west coast of Shikoku Island.

Initial reports  said there was no threat of tsunami and only minor injuries and damage reported.

The quake's epicenter, where the 6.6 magnitude was recorded, was in a strait called the Bungo-Suido Channel between Kyushu and Shikoku Islands.

According to news conference statements from Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, light injuries were reported, along with minor damage like broken water pipes, downed streetlights and some landslides onto a national highway.

The 6.6 measurement was on the Japanese scale of zero to 7.

The strongest  measured impacts were in Ainan Town, Sukumo City, and Uwajimia City, according to Japan's Meteorological Agency.

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