Shikoku: The Smallest Main Island of Japan!

Shikoku is truly a treasure that is just waiting for you to explore. Its ancient temples, stunning landscapes, and lively festivals offer a unique experience. Whether you’re wandering through its peaceful mountains and rivers or savoring the delicious local dishes, this magical destination is sure to charm every traveler who visits.

Where is Shikoku Island?

Shikoku Island is one of Japan’s four main islands, alongside Hokkaido, Honshu, and Kyushu. It is between the Seto Inland Sea to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south. Shikoku is the smallest and least populated of these islands, comprising four prefectures: Tokushima, Kagawa, Ehime, and Kochi.

The island is accessible via several bridges that connect it to Honshu, enhancing travel convenience. Notably, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge links Kobe to Tokushima, while the Seto-Ohashi Bridges connect Okayama to Kagawa. Additionally, the Nishi-Seto Expressway facilitates access from Hiroshima to Ehime.

Also, the famous Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage attracts many visitors seeking spiritual and scenic experiences. The island’s diverse landscapes feature mountains, rivers, and coastal areas, making it a hidden gem for travelers exploring Japan beyond its more famous destinations.

Tokushima

One of the most incredible things about Tokushima is the Awa Odori festival. This traditional dance festival happens every year from August 12 to 15, attracting around 1.5 million people! During the festival, dancers wear colorful costumes and perform lively dances in the streets, creating a fun and festive atmosphere everyone enjoys.

Another interesting site in Tokushima is the Ido-ji Temple. This temple is part of the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage, where people visit many temples across the island. Ido-ji Temple is peaceful and beautiful, making it an excellent place for visitors to relax and think. The temple has lovely gardens and impressive buildings, so it’s a nice stop for anyone exploring the area.

Tokushima is also home to the fantastic Naruto Whirlpools. These natural whirlpools form in the Naruto Strait, especially during certain tides. They can get enormous and are a spectacular sight! Visitors can watch the whirlpools from exceptional viewpoints or even take boat tours to see them up close.

Kagawa

Kagawa is home to the Kankakei Gorge, which offers stunning views that change with the seasons! In spring, it has bright cherry blossoms, and in fall, it has colorful leaves. You can ride on the Kankakei Ropeway, which has fantastic views of the gorge and the Seto Inland Sea. At the top are hiking trails and a restaurant where you can try local foods, like olive beef croquette burgers!

Another great spot in Kagawa is Kikugetsu-tei, a traditional Japanese tea house. Beautiful gardens surround this tea house, with a calm atmosphere where you can enjoy matcha tea while soaking in the lovely views. It’s a perfect place to relax and experience some Japanese culture.

There’s also the Red Lighthouse, a charming landmark at the entrance of Takamatsu Port in the city of Takamatsu. This bright red lighthouse is useful for guiding boats and is a favorite photo spot for visitors. Its eye-catching color makes it easy to see and adds to the pretty views of the harbor.

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Ehime

Ehime Prefecture has Bansuiso, a stunning mansion resembling a French château. Built-in 1922, Bansuiso was created by Count Sadakoto Hisamatsu, who wanted to impress his guests with its elegant style. Today, visitors can tour the mansion and enjoy its lovely gardens. The first floor is free to enter, while a small fee allows you to see the beautiful second floor, where you can take amazing photos from the balcony.

Another exciting spot is the Ehime Prefectural Science Museum. This museum is perfect for anyone who loves science! It has lots of hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that make learning fun. You can explore topics like space and nature; even planetarium shows take you on a journey through the stars. It’s an excellent place for families and curious minds to discover new things.

Also, don’t miss the Towel Museum in Imabari, famous for its high-quality towels. This unique museum shows how towels are made and the history behind this craft. Visitors can learn about the towel-making process and even buy some of the softest towels in Japan to take home.

Kochi

One of the top attractions in Kochi is Katsurahama Beach, a stunning crescent-shaped beach that offers amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. Although swimming isn’t allowed here because of strong currents, visitors can enjoy relaxing walks along the shore, see green pine trees, and admire the colorful stones that line the beach. A famous statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, a beloved historical figure, stands proudly at the beach, making it an excellent photo spot. You can also visit the Katsurahama Aquarium, where you can see fun sea lion shows and learn about marine life.

Another exciting experience in Kochi is the Sunday Market, which takes place every Sunday in the city. This bustling market is one of the largest in the area and offers a wide variety of street food. Visitors can stroll through the market, sample tasty treats like katsuo no tataki (lightly seared bonito), and shop for unique souvenirs.

Lastly, the Niyodo River is famous for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery. It’s a popular spot and many people come here to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The river is also known for its stunning blue color, making it a perfect place for nature lovers and photographers.

Why should I visit the Shikoku region?

You should visit the region because it offers a unique experience filled with rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. Its deep cultural heritage is one of the most compelling reasons to explore this beautiful area.

Shikoku is also home to the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage, which includes 88 Buddhist temples. This spiritual journey, established over 1,200 years ago, allows visitors to connect with Japan’s traditions while enjoying breathtaking scenery. Whether you walk, bike, or drive, the pilgrimage provides a meaningful way to discover the region. Have you ever been to the Shikoku region before? Let us know in the comments below!