Best Things to Do in Shikoku, Japan

Japan’s Shikoku island offers a perfect blend of spiritual depth, natural beauty, and adventurous pursuits, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences away from crowded tourist spots. This guide highlights essential activities across its four prefectures—Tokushima, Kagawa, Ehime, and Kochi—drawing from reliable travel insights to help you craft an unforgettable itinerary.

Embark on the Sacred 88-Temple Pilgrimage

The **88-Temple Pilgrimage**, known as the Henro, stands as Shikoku’s most iconic spiritual journey, spanning about 1,400 kilometers around the island. Originating from the legend of monk Kobo Daishi, this route connects 88 temples through diverse landscapes of mountains, forests, and coastlines. Pilgrims, dressed in traditional white attire, walk or cycle the path, collecting stamps at each temple as a symbol of devotion.

Begin at Temple 1, Ryozenji in Tokushima, a common starting point that sets a contemplative tone. The full circuit takes 40-60 days on foot, but many opt for shorter segments, such as the eastern route or bus-assisted tours. Along the way, experience osettai, the local custom of offering food and shelter to pilgrims, fostering a deep sense of community.

• Best time: Spring (cherry blossoms) or autumn (foliage).
• Tips: Rent a pilgrim outfit and staff in Tokushima; use the Henro app for navigation.
• Highlights: Temples like No. 12 Shozanji with its steep stone steps and No. 66 Unpenji amid misty peaks.

Witness the Mesmerizing Naruto Whirlpools

At the Naruto Strait between Shikoku and Awaji Island, powerful tidal currents create the world’s largest **whirlpools**, reaching diameters up to 20 meters. These dramatic vortices form twice daily during high and low tides, as Pacific Ocean waters clash with the Seto Inland Sea.

Observe from the Uzu no Michi, a glass walkway suspended 45 meters above the strait on the Onaruto Bridge, or join boat tours for close-up views. Peak times align with tidal charts—check schedules for “ozshio” (great tide) events. Combine with indigo dyeing workshops nearby in Utatsu for a cultural twist.

Traverse the Mystical Iya Valley

Deep in Tokushima Prefecture, **Iya Valley** captivates with its emerald gorges, terraced rice fields, and ancient vine bridges like Kazurabashi. Built centuries ago by fleeing samurai, these swaying structures—made of twisted vines—offer a precarious yet thrilling crossing just 14 meters above the ravine.

Adventure escalates with ziplines at Forest Adventure Iya Valley, soaring over rivers and treetops, or pleasure boat rides through Oboke Gorge’s sheer cliffs. Soak in remote onsens like Iya Onsen for recovery. For hikers, explore Oku-Iya’s double vine bridges amid unspoiled wilderness.

• Access: Train to Awa-Ikeda, then bus or rental car.
• Stay: Traditional minshuku for local cuisine like river ayu fish.
• Caution: Vine bridges sway; hold rails firmly.

Conquer Historic Castles: Matsuyama and Kochi

Shikoku boasts two of Japan’s 12 original castles. **Matsuyama Castle** in Ehime, perched on Mount Katsuyama, dates to 1602 with its intact five-story keep offering panoramic city views. Exhibits inside detail samurai history and feudal artifacts.

Nearby, Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring (3,000+ years), inspired Spirited Away—relax in its wooden baths. In Kochi, **Kochi Castle** mirrors this grandeur with its original 1601 structure, housing armor and documents. Climb for vistas and visit the Sunday market below.

These sites provide a window into Edo-period Japan, contrasting with modern adventures.

Cycle the Shimanami Kaido Bridge Route

Connecting Shikoku to Honshu, the **Shimanami Kaido** is a 70-km cycling paradise over six stunning bridges, including the suspension marvel Kurushima Kaikyo. Rent bikes at Imabari or Onomichi; the route weaves islands with sea breezes and citrus groves.

Family-friendly with rest stops, it peaks at scenic viewpoints. E-bikes suit all levels. End with fresh mikan oranges, a Ehime specialty.

Savor Kagawa’s Udon Culture and Gardens

Kagawa, Japan’s udon prefecture, shines at **Ritsurin Garden** in Takamatsu—a UNESCO hopeful with manicured pines, ponds, and tea houses. Enjoy breakfast sets amid serenity.

Master udon-making at Nakano Udon School: knead, stretch, and boil Sanuki-style noodles. Visit Shikoku Aquarium for Naruto Strait marine life, including dolphin shows.

Explore Art Islands and Festivals

**Naoshima Island** in Kagawa transforms galleries into art havens: Yayoi Kusama’s pumpkins, Tadao Ando’s concrete museums, and communal bathhouses like I Love Yu.

In Tokushima, the **Awa Odori Festival** (mid-August) features hypnotic dances—Awa Odori Kaikan offers year-round shows.

Outdoor Thrills: Mountains, Rivers, and More

Hike **Mount Tsurugi**, Shikoku’s second-highest peak, for alpine trails and sea-of-clouds at Hachigo-kiri Unkai.

In Kochi, raft the turquoise **Shimanto River** or Niyodo Blue—crystal waters ideal for SUP and Nikobuchi waterfall views.

Indigo dyeing in Utatsu or Nomura adds hands-on heritage.

Practical Planning for Your Shikoku Trip

• Getting There: Fly into Tokushima, Takamatsu, Matsuyama, or Kochi airports; JR trains connect efficiently.
• Best Season: April-May or October-November for mild weather.
• Budget: 10,000-20,000 JPY/day including food/lodging.
• Transport: Rent cars for valleys; buses/trains for temples.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Shikoku safe for solo travelers?

Yes, low crime rates and hospitable locals make it ideal; English signage is limited in rural areas.

How long to explore Shikoku?

7-14 days for highlights; 1 month for full pilgrimage.

What’s the cost of the temple pilgrimage?

Accommodations from 5,000 JPY/night; many free via osettai.

Can families enjoy Iya Valley?

Yes, with ziplines for kids and easy walks.

Vegetarian food options?

Abundant temple shojin ryori and udon variations.