Ever dreamed of exploring Japan beyond the usual Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka route? Well, let me introduce you to Shikoku — Japan’s most underrated island, a place where ancient traditions, wild nature, and local warmth collide in the best way possible. Think of it as Japan’s quiet, outdoorsy cousin who skips the city lights for mountain trails, secret temples, and hot springs with views that’ll make you go, “Why didn’t I come here sooner?” 😅
I’ll be real with you — my first Shikoku trip started as a random detour. I wanted a break from Tokyo’s chaos, and what I found instead was an adventure that felt like discovering Japan all over again. So, buckle up — here’s your complete Shikoku Island adventure guide, written like a chat between travel buddies who are just as obsessed with off-the-beaten-path Japan as you are.
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Why Shikoku Deserves Your Attention
So, why Shikoku? Short answer: it’s raw, authentic, and ridiculously scenic.
Unlike Japan’s tourist-heavy islands, Shikoku moves at its own pace. It’s made up of four prefectures — Tokushima, Kochi, Ehime, and Kagawa — each with its own vibe:
• Tokushima: Famous for its Awa Odori dance and dramatic mountain landscapes.
• Kochi: Laid-back surfer paradise with epic rivers and coastlines.
• Ehime: Think castles, citrus fruits, and relaxing onsen culture.
• Kagawa: The home of udon, and yes, the locals take that very seriously.
And the best part? You can road trip the entire island in a few days. Yep, it’s perfect for travelers who want to see Japan’s countryside without needing to teleport between prefectures.
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Getting There: The Scenic Way or the Quick Way
You’ve got a few options:
• By Train or Bus: Shikoku connects to Japan’s main island via the Seto Ohashi Bridge, a massive piece of engineering that gives you panoramic sea views as you cross.
• By Ferry: Coming from Hiroshima or Kyushu? Ferries are cheap and surprisingly comfy — just grab a window seat and enjoy the Seto Inland Sea breeze.
• By Car: IMO, this is the best way. Renting a car gives you total freedom to explore tiny coastal towns, mountain temples, and beaches where you might be the only human for miles.
Pro tip: Japanese roads are super organized, so even if you’re not a local driver, it’s easy. Just get your international driving permit and a playlist — trust me, the views make every kilometer worth it.
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Tokushima: Where the Mountains Dance
Let’s kick things off in Tokushima Prefecture, home to one of Japan’s coolest festivals — the Awa Odori. Every August, the streets explode with color, dance, and energy. Locals and travelers alike dance in groups shouting, “Odoru aho ni miru aho, onaji aho nara odoranya son son!” (Translation: “It’s silly to dance, it’s silly to watch — so you might as well dance!”) How’s that for a life motto?
But Tokushima isn’t just about festivals. If you’re into outdoor adventure, this is paradise:
• Iya Valley: A misty, rugged gorge famous for vine bridges (yes, actual vines). Crossing one feels like stepping into another century.
• Oboke and Koboke Gorges: Perfect for rafting or canyoning. The emerald rivers here look unreal.
• Mount Tsurugi: A relatively easy climb with breathtaking views of the Shikoku Mountains.
FYI: Tokushima’s countryside is so quiet that you might spot more tanuki (Japanese raccoon dogs) than people.
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Kochi: Surf, Rivers, and Free Spirits
Next stop, Kochi — a prefecture that radiates freedom and good vibes. Locals here are famously laid-back (some even call Kochi Japan’s “California”).
Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
• Katsurahama Beach: Gorgeous but not swimmable (strong currents). It’s the view that counts!
• Shimanto River: One of Japan’s cleanest rivers — perfect for kayaking, cycling along, or just chilling with a picnic.
• Hirome Market: A must-visit in Kochi City. Imagine a food hall packed with local dishes, sake stalls, and strangers who’ll quickly become your friends.
And of course, Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining original castles. Climb to the top for views that scream “samurai movie set.”
Personal tip: Try Katsuo no Tataki, Kochi’s signature seared bonito. They literally torch the fish in front of you — it’s smoky, fresh, and unforgettable.
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Ehime: Castles, Citrus, and Onsen Bliss
Heading north, Ehime Prefecture feels elegant and slow-paced — a perfect balance after Kochi’s wild vibe.
The highlight here is Matsuyama, a charming city that’s home to one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, Dogo Onsen. If you’ve seen Spirited Away, you’ll recognize the inspiration instantly. You can soak in the historic bathhouse for just a few hundred yen and come out feeling like you’ve time-traveled.
Don’t miss:
• Matsuyama Castle: Perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city and sea.
• Shimanami Kaido: A 70-km cycling route connecting Shikoku to Honshu through islands and bridges — easily one of Japan’s most scenic rides.
• Citrus Paradise: Ehime’s mikan oranges are legendary. Locals sell fresh juice on the roadside, and yes, it’s as refreshing as it sounds.
Ever tried sipping cold orange juice in an outdoor bath? You should.
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Kagawa: Udon Kingdom (and a Lot More)
Finally, Kagawa Prefecture — aka Udon Heaven. Seriously, locals here don’t just eat udon; they live udon. You’ll find self-serve udon shops everywhere, where you grab a bowl, add toppings, and pay just a few hundred yen.
If you’re into food adventures, do a “Udon Pilgrimage” — hopping between multiple udon shops in a day. Yes, that’s a real thing.
But don’t fill up too fast, because Kagawa also has:
• Ritsurin Garden: A stunning Japanese garden in Takamatsu that’s perfect for a quiet morning walk.
• Naoshima Island (nearby): Famous for modern art installations like Yayoi Kusama’s giant pumpkin.
• Takamatsu Castle: A “sea castle” that blends ocean and architecture beautifully.
Fun fact: Kagawa is Japan’s smallest prefecture, but its culture and creativity punch way above its weight.
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The 88 Temple Pilgrimage: Shikoku’s Spiritual Heartbeat
You can’t talk about Shikoku without mentioning the 88 Temple Pilgrimage — one of Japan’s oldest spiritual journeys.
Spanning over 1,200 kilometers, this route circles the island, connecting 88 Buddhist temples said to be visited by monk Kobo Daishi. Traditionally, pilgrims walked the entire thing (yep, on foot), wearing white robes and straw hats.
But don’t worry — these days, you can do parts of it by car or bike, and it’s just as meaningful. Even visiting a few temples gives you a glimpse of Shikoku’s spiritual soul.
Each temple feels different — some hidden deep in forests, others perched above towns. The quiet moments between them? Those are the real treasures.
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Best Time to Visit Shikoku
Timing matters! Here’s a quick breakdown:
• Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms and mild weather — perfect for hiking and cycling.
• Summer (June–August): Festival season! Also great for river rafting and beaches.
• Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, colorful leaves, and fewer crowds.
• Winter (December–February): Peaceful and affordable, especially for onsen lovers.
IMO, autumn wins — fewer tourists, stunning colors, and that perfect “sweater weather” vibe.
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Food You Absolutely Must Try
Shikoku is heaven for foodies (and I don’t say that lightly). Here’s your mini checklist:
• Sanuki Udon (Kagawa): Thick, chewy noodles that redefine comfort food.
• Katsuo no Tataki (Kochi): Lightly seared bonito with garlic and soy sauce.
• Tai Meshi (Ehime): Sea bream rice — elegant and comforting.
• Sudachi Citrus (Tokushima): Tiny green citrus fruits used for flavoring — a refreshing kick!
Bonus snack: Try botchan dango, colorful rice dumplings from Matsuyama. Cute and delicious. :)
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Tips for a Smooth Shikoku Adventure
A few things I wish I’d known before my trip:
• Cash is king: Some rural areas still don’t accept cards.
• Book accommodation early: Especially during festivals.
• Google Maps is your best friend: Even in remote areas, it’s surprisingly reliable.
• Don’t rush: Shikoku is all about slowing down and soaking in the vibe.
And above all — talk to locals. They’re some of the friendliest people you’ll meet in Japan, and they love helping travelers discover hidden gems.
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Final Thoughts: Why Shikoku Stays With You
So, what makes Shikoku so special? It’s not just the scenery or the food — it’s the feeling. The feeling of slowing down, breathing fresh mountain air, and realizing that Japan’s soul beats strongest far from the neon lights.
Every turn offers something unexpected — a temple tucked behind a waterfall, a roadside udon shop run by a smiling grandma, or a sunset that turns the sea gold. It’s real, unfiltered Japan — and once you experience it, you’ll keep thinking about it long after you’ve left.
So, if you’re ready for a trip that’s equal parts adventure, culture, and soul-searching — Shikoku is calling. Are you picking up? 😉
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