Shikoku Travel Guide

Our Shikoku travel guide covers everything you need to know about planning and experiencing a trip to Japan's fourth-largest island. From must-see attractions to local customs, we have got you covered.


Introduction to Shikoku

Shikoku, Japan’s fourth-largest island, is located in East Asia. It can be easily overlooked by travelers because of its lack of popularity, but the island has hidden gems that make it worth visiting. When you’re in Shikoku, you’ll find yourself surrounded by nature, culture, and delicious cuisine. The island is home to ancient pilgrimage routes, hidden hot springs, and pristine beaches.

List of Places to Visit in Shikoku

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Shikoku is the perfect blend of modern and ancient, with museums and historical places that offer visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich past. Among the must-visit historical sites in Shikoku are:

Ritsurin Garden

Ritsurin Garden is a 400-year-old garden located in Takamatsu City. You can take a stroll through the sprawling gardens that include ponds, bridges, pavilions, and a tea house.

Naruto Whirlpools

Naruto Whirlpools, located in the Naruto Strait, are natural tidal whirlpools created by the rush of water flowing between the islands of Shikoku and Awaji. You can take a boat ride to witness the swirling waters.

Tokushima Castle Ruins

The Tokushima Castle Ruins are located in Tokushima city, where you can see a glimpse of feudal Japan.

Natural Attractions of Shikoku: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Shikoku is also home to breathtaking natural attractions, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of our top picks:

Mount Ishizuchi

Mount Ishizuchi is the highest mountain in western Japan, standing at 1,982 meters. With various hiking trails, this mountain offers beautiful views and is a popular destination for thrill-seekers.

Oboke Gorge

Oboke Gorge is a stunning river valley in the heart of Shikoku. You can experience the beauty of the gorge by taking a boat ride.

Katsura Beach

For those who love the beach, Katsura Beach is a must-visit. Located on Shikoku’s southern coast, this beautiful sandy beach is surrounded by beautiful cliffs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shikoku

Shikoku has a network of well-marked hiking and biking trails that attract outdoor enthusiasts. The island’s most well-known route is the 1,200-kilometer Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail. It is a path that connects 88 temples and is considered a life-changing experience for many locals and tourists. Other notable hiking and biking trails include:

  • Mount Tsurugi hiking trail
  • Shimanto River biking trail
  • Kotohira Pilgrimage circuit

Best Things to Do in Shikoku: Activities and Tours

There is a whole range of activities and tours in Shikoku that will take the visitors on an adventure of a lifetime. Whether you are looking for a cultural experience or outdoor adventure, Shikoku has something for everyone. Here are some of our best things to do in Shikoku:

  • Attend the Awa Odori festival, an annual traditional dance festival held in Tokushima.
  • Try a living museum tour in Kochi, and experience the traditional lifestyle of people in the Edo period.
  • Explore the Iya Valley, where you can go rafting or rent a bike.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shikoku

If you’re planning to visit Shikoku, a week-long itinerary is a great way to experience the island’s diversity fully. Here’s an example of how to spend a week in Shikoku:

Day 1 - 2: Takamatsu

Start your trip to Shikoku in Takamatsu. It offers a blend of culture and tradition. You can visit the famous Ritsurin Garden on Day 1 and explore the city on Day 2.

Day 3 - 4: Kochi

On Day 3, head to Kochi to start exploring Japan’s nature. You can join a cycling tour on Day 4 to explore the local villages.

Day 5 - 6: Tokushima

Tokushima is the perfect blend of nature and culture. On Day 5, take a boat ride to see the Naruto Whirlpools. On Day 6, you can explore the famous Awa Odori Festival.

Day 7: Matsuyama

End your trip in Matsuyama, where you can visit the Matsuyama Castle and Dogo-onsen Hot Spring.

Food and Drink Scene of Shikoku

Must-Try Dishes

One of the highlights of visiting Shikoku is trying the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Sanuki Udon - made with flour from Kagawa prefecture, this dish is known for its chewy texture and delicious broth.
  • Katsuo no Tataki - a dish made with seared skipjack tuna.
  • Tai no Shioyaki - grilled sea bream seasoned with salt.

Local Beverages

When visiting Shikoku, you must try the local drinks.

  • Sake - Shikoku is home to excellent sake breweries.
  • Shochu - Shochu is a Japanese distilled spirit; Shikoku is known for its high-quality Shochu.

Where to Stay in Shikoku: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Shikoku has several options for accommodations, making it easy for visitors to find a place that suits their needs. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Dormy Inn Takamatsu
  • Hotel Los Inn Kochi
  • Tokushima Tokyu REI Hotel
  • Dogo Onsen Funaya Ryokan

What to Buy in Shikoku: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Shikoku is home to several unique souvenirs that you can take home as a token of your trip. Here are some must-buy souvenirs:

  • Sanuki Udon Noodles
  • Awa-Kanroni (pickled vegetables)
  • Uchiwa hand fans

Local Culture and Customs of Shikoku

Shikoku has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can experience this through various cultural events and practices. These include the Shikoku pilgrimage, traditional arts, and local festivals.

Best Time to Visit Shikoku

The best time to visit Shikoku is from late September to November and late March to May. During this time, the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shikoku

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting temples or attending traditional events.
  • Try the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas.
  • Talk loudly on public transportation or in public places.
  • Take photographs where it is not permitted.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shikoku

Shikoku is generally safe for visitors, with low crime rates. Visitors should remain vigilant and take necessary precautions when in crowded areas.

Health in Shikoku

Shikoku has excellent healthcare facilities; visitors can access basic treatment at clinics or hospitals conveniently.

Getting to Shikoku: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shikoku

  • Takamatsu Airport
  • Kochi Ryoma Airport
  • Tokushima Airport

Bus Stations Near Shikoku

  • Takamatsu Bus Station
  • Kochi Bus Station
  • Tokushima Bus Station

Other Options

One of the most popular ways of exploring Shikoku is by renting a car. Many tourists also take trains or bicycles to explore the island on their own.

How to Get Around in Shikoku

Public transportation in Shikoku is convenient and efficient. You can use trains, buses, taxis, or rental cars to get around the island.

Where to Go Next from Shikoku: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to extend your trip, here are some nearby destinations that you can explore:

  • Hiroshima
  • Okayama
  • Osaka

Conclusion

Visiting Shikoku is an experience that you won’t forget. With a blend of culture, tradition, and natural beauty, you’ll be surrounded by incredible scenery and a rich history. Our Shikoku travel guide covers everything you need to know about planning and experiencing a trip to this hidden gem of Japan.

Chinkabashi Bridge over the Shimanto River Chinkabashi Bridge over the Shimanto River Takamatsu-Kotohira Electric Railway Takamatsu-Kotohira Electric Railway Kochi Castle Kochi Castle Tenshaen Garden in Uwajima Tenshaen Garden in Uwajima Braving the rapids, Oboke and Koboke Braving the rapids, Oboke and Koboke


    Ehime
    Kagawa
    Kochi (prefecture)
    Tokushima (prefecture)