[Shikoku’s Geoparks: A Complete Guide] What is a geopark? How to make the most of geoparks and highlights, including Shikoku Karst Natural Park!
Seeing, walking through, and experiencing landscapes formed by the Earth over millions of years: that’s the real thrill of travelling around a geopark. Shikoku boasts spectacular natural scenery and activities carried out by people who live in it. This article introduces the highlights of Shikoku’s geoparks, including the Shikoku Karst Natural Park, activities you can enjoy together, information about gourmet cuisine, and plenty more!
What is a geopark?
A Geopark is a single, unified geographical area where sites and landscapes of geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development.* Currently, 48 areas are designated as Japanese geoparks, and 10 of these are of international value, classed as UNESCO Global Geoparks. *Taken from the Japan Geoparks Network website.
The Shikoku Mountain Range runs east-west through the center of Shikoku, and the characteristic topography of the north of the island is quite different to that of the south.
North Shikoku faces the Seto Inland Sea, and its terrain consists of relatively gently sloping hills dotted with small plains. On the other hand, south Shikoku, facing the Pacific Ocean, is made up of an expanse of dynamic topography, with steep mountains running all the way to the coast. On top of this, diverse terrain formed by uplift and subsidence caused by the subduction of the Philippine Sea plate creates the characteristic landscapes in each area of Shikoku.
Thanks to these geological features, Shikoku is now home to four Japanese Geoparks, one of which has been designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark: Miyoshi Geopark, Shikoku Seiyo Geopark, Muroto Geopark, and Tosashimizu Geopark.
The Shikoku Mountain Range runs east-west through the center of Shikoku, and the characteristic topography of the north of the island is quite different to that of the south.
North Shikoku faces the Seto Inland Sea, and its terrain consists of relatively gently sloping hills dotted with small plains. On the other hand, south Shikoku, facing the Pacific Ocean, is made up of an expanse of dynamic topography, with steep mountains running all the way to the coast. On top of this, diverse terrain formed by uplift and subsidence caused by the subduction of the Philippine Sea plate creates the characteristic landscapes in each area of Shikoku.
Thanks to these geological features, Shikoku is now home to four Japanese Geoparks, one of which has been designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark: Miyoshi Geopark, Shikoku Seiyo Geopark, Muroto Geopark, and Tosashimizu Geopark.
How do I make the most of a geopark?
There are several ways you can have fun in a geopark, where you can explore magnificent stories told by the land itself.
Create your own special memories as you experience tales in which the history of the Earth and the lives of the people that live upon it are intertwined.
(1) Capture unique landscapes with your camera
More than anything, geoparks boast an abundance of photogenic spots! You’re sure to make special memories as you focus your camera on one-of-a-kind landscapes through the four seasons in a land etched with the history of the Earth. The appearance of a geopark changes depending on the season, time of day, and the weather. In particular, the soft light at dawn and dusk emphasizes the shadows of the terrain and creates an expanse of fantastical scenery.
(2) Step directly onto the land and experience it for yourself
Certain geosites include areas with hiking and cycling trails that enable you to make the most of the richly varied topography. Not only can you enjoy each of the spectacular sights, you can also discover the wonders of the shifting scenery and geological features, including movement within sites, by experiencing it for yourself. Delight in the dynamism of the Earth with all your senses as you move around!
(3) Join a guided tour
Travelling around with a geoguide who has knowledge of the geological features and the area is an essential part of any geopark adventure. You’ll find you gain a special appreciation for even more ordinary scenery by learning about its formation, history, and background. On top of exploring the history of the Earth and the culture and traditions of the area, you’ll encounter charms known only by the local people, and experience the fun of making little discoveries. Ask questions as you tour the geopark with a guide, and not only will your understanding grow, you’ll find yourself on a journey with discoveries of your own!
Create your own special memories as you experience tales in which the history of the Earth and the lives of the people that live upon it are intertwined.
(1) Capture unique landscapes with your camera
More than anything, geoparks boast an abundance of photogenic spots! You’re sure to make special memories as you focus your camera on one-of-a-kind landscapes through the four seasons in a land etched with the history of the Earth. The appearance of a geopark changes depending on the season, time of day, and the weather. In particular, the soft light at dawn and dusk emphasizes the shadows of the terrain and creates an expanse of fantastical scenery.
(2) Step directly onto the land and experience it for yourself
Certain geosites include areas with hiking and cycling trails that enable you to make the most of the richly varied topography. Not only can you enjoy each of the spectacular sights, you can also discover the wonders of the shifting scenery and geological features, including movement within sites, by experiencing it for yourself. Delight in the dynamism of the Earth with all your senses as you move around!
(3) Join a guided tour
Travelling around with a geoguide who has knowledge of the geological features and the area is an essential part of any geopark adventure. You’ll find you gain a special appreciation for even more ordinary scenery by learning about its formation, history, and background. On top of exploring the history of the Earth and the culture and traditions of the area, you’ll encounter charms known only by the local people, and experience the fun of making little discoveries. Ask questions as you tour the geopark with a guide, and not only will your understanding grow, you’ll find yourself on a journey with discoveries of your own!
Learn in a geopark!
Geoparks are natural museums, where you can experience the history of the Earth.
Get an up-close view of stories etched into the land, from geological strata formed hundreds of millions of years ago to traces of tsunamis. On a guided tour, you’ll come face to face with changes in the earth, and learn about the wisdom and ingenuity of the local people who lived side-by-side with nature.
You’ll find information about guided tours on each geopark’s official website, so make sure you check for tours you may like before your trip. Please note that some tours must be booked in advance.
Introduction: Miyoshi Geopark
Miyoshi Geopark encompasses a total area of approximately 844 square kilometers, extending across Miyoshi City and Higashimiyoshi Town in western Tokushima Prefecture. Its theme is “Elevated Villages and the Flowing Yoshinogawa River on the Ever-Changing Earth,” and this geopark is characterized by the precipitous Shikoku Mountain Range and the Sanuki Mountains formed by Median Tectonic Line activity, the flowing waters of the Yoshinogawa River (also known as the Yoshino River), and countless gentle slopes created by landslides.
Here, you’ll find villages clinging to mountain slopes and the Yoshinogawa River, known in Japan for its flooding, as well as the Oboke and Koboke gorges: catch a glimpse of an unrelenting natural environment and the lives and culture of the people who lived within it. This geopark also includes the Iya area, one of Japan’s three best-kept secrets, which is famous for its Kazurabashi Vine Bridge.
Here, you’ll find villages clinging to mountain slopes and the Yoshinogawa River, known in Japan for its flooding, as well as the Oboke and Koboke gorges: catch a glimpse of an unrelenting natural environment and the lives and culture of the people who lived within it. This geopark also includes the Iya area, one of Japan’s three best-kept secrets, which is famous for its Kazurabashi Vine Bridge.
Explore and savor the food culture of Miyoshi Geopark
Each local area of this region has a rich food culture, and behind this food culture lies a strong connection to the area’s geological features.
The local cuisine of the Iya region within the geopark includes Iya soba, sobagome zousui (in which buckwheat seeds are used as a substitute for rice), and dekomawashi (potatoes, buckwheat dumplings, rock tofu, and round konnyaku skewered and grilled with miso sauce). Rice cultivation was difficult in this area of deep V-shaped valleys and villages situated on high and steep mountain slopes. Instead, buckwheat became the focus of the local people, and has historically supported their daily meals. In addition to these enlightening flavors born from the severe mountain environment, you can also enjoy salt-grilled amego and ayu fish from the clear streams here, and even meals made with wild game in some areas. Experience the simple yet powerful food culture of Iya, developed with its rich natural world.
The local cuisine of the Iya region within the geopark includes Iya soba, sobagome zousui (in which buckwheat seeds are used as a substitute for rice), and dekomawashi (potatoes, buckwheat dumplings, rock tofu, and round konnyaku skewered and grilled with miso sauce). Rice cultivation was difficult in this area of deep V-shaped valleys and villages situated on high and steep mountain slopes. Instead, buckwheat became the focus of the local people, and has historically supported their daily meals. In addition to these enlightening flavors born from the severe mountain environment, you can also enjoy salt-grilled amego and ayu fish from the clear streams here, and even meals made with wild game in some areas. Experience the simple yet powerful food culture of Iya, developed with its rich natural world.
Enjoy activities in Miyoshi Geopark
Within the geopark, you’ll find plenty of activities that enable you to make the most of its natural world in Iya and Oboke, including rafting that takes advantage of the rapids of the Yoshino River, leisurely boat trips through the magnificent valleys, and a zip line that offers excellent views of the valley from the sky. These activities are possible thanks to the geological activities that formed this terrain and its features. On top of these activities, you can also experience the topography and history of everyday life here through a tour with a geoguide.
Recommended areas for accommodation
This area is dotted with accommodation facilities in old renovated folkhouses and traditional hot-spring inns. We also recommend the Iya Valley area, where you can experience traditional life, and, for people who want an even stronger feeling of seclusion, the Oku-iya area. The Ikedacho area in the heart of Miyoshi City is close to JR Awa-Ikeda Station, with excellent access to public transport! You’ll find reasonable accommodation options here, and it makes a convenient base for sightseeing.
Oboke Iya Onsenkyo (Hot Spring Village) is also worth a look
Famous tourist spots in the Miyoshi Geopark area
Access information for Miyoshi Geopark
It's also possible to visit Miyoshi Geopark on a day trip from any of Shikoku’s prefectures. We recommend this for first-time visitors to Shikoku’s geoparks.
[Access by car]
・To each area from the Tokushima Expressway Ikawa-Ikeda IC
(Reference: Approx. 20 minutes to Oboke and approx. 40 minutes to Iya's Kazurabashi Vine Bridge)
[Access by public transport]
・ JR: The nearest station is Awa-Ikeda Station (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes from JR Takamatsu Station). Each tourist site is accessible by bus or taxi from the station.
・ Plane: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Takamatsu Airport; approx. 1 hour 20 minutes from Tokushima Awaodori Airport
[Access by car]
・To each area from the Tokushima Expressway Ikawa-Ikeda IC
(Reference: Approx. 20 minutes to Oboke and approx. 40 minutes to Iya's Kazurabashi Vine Bridge)
[Access by public transport]
・ JR: The nearest station is Awa-Ikeda Station (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes from JR Takamatsu Station). Each tourist site is accessible by bus or taxi from the station.
・ Plane: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Takamatsu Airport; approx. 1 hour 20 minutes from Tokushima Awaodori Airport
Introduction: Shikoku Seiyo Geopark
Shikoku Seiyo Geopark covers a total area of around 514 square kilometers in Seiyo City, Ehime Prefecture. It is characterized by its diverse topography, including deeply indented coastlines, basins, fluvial terraces, and karst plateaus, ranging in elevation from 0 m above sea level to 1,400 m high.
Diverse ecosystems, history, and culture have developed in this geopark thanks to its varied environment, with the sea, countryside, and mountains. It includes the Suzaki Coast, where you can observe geological strata in the Kurosegawa Tectonic Zone formed around 250 million years ago, before even the creation of the Japanese archipelago; Karihama, consisting of stunning terraced fields on steep slopes; the mysterious Anagami Limestone Cave; the Shikoku Karst, with an expanse of pastoral scenery; and Unomachi, where a townscape from the Edo period (1603–1868) still remains. Here, you can learn about the relationship between the formation of the land and the lives of its people.
Diverse ecosystems, history, and culture have developed in this geopark thanks to its varied environment, with the sea, countryside, and mountains. It includes the Suzaki Coast, where you can observe geological strata in the Kurosegawa Tectonic Zone formed around 250 million years ago, before even the creation of the Japanese archipelago; Karihama, consisting of stunning terraced fields on steep slopes; the mysterious Anagami Limestone Cave; the Shikoku Karst, with an expanse of pastoral scenery; and Unomachi, where a townscape from the Edo period (1603–1868) still remains. Here, you can learn about the relationship between the formation of the land and the lives of its people.
Run across the Shikoku Karst, the “Switzerland of Japan”!
The Shikoku Karst is one of Japan’s three great karsts: a highland 1,000 m above sea level with sprawling grasslands dotted with limestone where you can feast your eyes on fantastic scenery that, on fine days, makes it seem that you’re running above the clouds.You can see grazing cows from the spring to the fall, and this pastoral scenery is what gives this area its nickname “the Switzerland of Japan.” This is also a popular area for driving and cycling.
Explore and savor the food culture of Shikoku Seiyo Geopark
In this area, you can savor gourmet dishes such as uwajima taimeshi, featuring sashimi made from fresh sea bream from the Uwa Sea, covered in a mixture of a special sauce and egg and served on rice; freshly fried jakoten, made with surimi fish paste; sweet and aromatic citrus fruits grown on terraced fields; and flavorful dairy products from the cows that graze on the Shikoku Karst.
This colorful food culture offers tastes unique to western Shikoku, where the sea, countryside, and mountains are all interconnected, and is supported by terrain with height variations of 1,400 meters and the differing climates of each area. The south-facing slopes along the coast offer excellent citrus cultivation thanks to the sunlight and good drainage, while the highlands of the Shikoku Karst are used for cattle grazing, taking advantage of a climate that is cool even in the summer. Experience unique local tastes connected to the terrain and way of life here.
This colorful food culture offers tastes unique to western Shikoku, where the sea, countryside, and mountains are all interconnected, and is supported by terrain with height variations of 1,400 meters and the differing climates of each area. The south-facing slopes along the coast offer excellent citrus cultivation thanks to the sunlight and good drainage, while the highlands of the Shikoku Karst are used for cattle grazing, taking advantage of a climate that is cool even in the summer. Experience unique local tastes connected to the terrain and way of life here.
Enjoy activities in Shikoku Seiyo Geopark
Popular activities include e-bike georide tours that take you around the geopark on power-assisted bicycles and exploring the Anagami Limestone Cave with a local guide. The geopark has plenty of programs full of wide-ranging experiences, taking advantage of the diverse mountains, countryside, and seaside terrain, such as strolls through nature on Shikoku’s first footpath* course, nature walks through Katsuragawa Valley, and mikan harvesting in the terraced fields.
*Paths to take on foot through unaltered scenery in the area, originating in the UK.
*Paths to take on foot through unaltered scenery in the area, originating in the UK.
Recommended areas for accommodation
You’ll find long-running traditional inns and old folkhouses in the Uwacho area, where a historic townscape still remains, or you can enjoy hot springs and farmhouse accommodation in the mountainous Shirokawacho area.
here’s also the Akehamacho area, where you can take in the atmosphere of a fishing village by the sea, and the Nomuracho area, which is the gateway to the Shikoku Karst Natural Park.
We recommend you make a decision based on the terrain and spots you want to visit.
Access information for Shikoku Seiyo Geopark
Driving is the most convenient way to effectively travel around the diverse sites in Seiyo Geopark’s mountains, countryside, and coast.
[Access by car]
・To each area from the Matsuyama Expressway Seiyo-Uwa IC
(Reference: Approx. 5 minutes to the Geomuseum/townscape of Unomachi; approx. 40 minutes to the Suzaki coast; approx. 50 minutes to Shikoku Karst Onogahara)
[Access by public transport]
・JR: Approx. 1 hour from Unomachi Station on the limited express Uwakai from JR Matsuyama Station.
・Plane: Approx. 1 hour 5 minutes by car from Matsuyama Airport.
[Access by car]
・To each area from the Matsuyama Expressway Seiyo-Uwa IC
(Reference: Approx. 5 minutes to the Geomuseum/townscape of Unomachi; approx. 40 minutes to the Suzaki coast; approx. 50 minutes to Shikoku Karst Onogahara)
[Access by public transport]
・JR: Approx. 1 hour from Unomachi Station on the limited express Uwakai from JR Matsuyama Station.
・Plane: Approx. 1 hour 5 minutes by car from Matsuyama Airport.
Introduction: Muroto Geopark
Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark encompasses a total area of 248 square kilometers in Muroto City in eastern Kochi Prefecture. The geopark’s theme is “Discover the everyday wisdom of people living in a place where the land is forever rising.” Located close to the Nankai Trough, this is a place where there is continuous uplift in the land of around two meters every 1,000 years—some of the fastest in the world. Here, you can feel close to the dynamic activities of the Earth.
Get a close-up view of marine terraces 180 m high that once lay at the bottom of the ocean and were lifted by earthquakes, forming land; accretionary rocks brought about by the subduction of the oceanic plate (geological features created when rocks on an oceanic plate attach to a continental plate), and strangely shaped rocks formed by the stormy seas of the Pacific Ocean.
Get a close-up view of marine terraces 180 m high that once lay at the bottom of the ocean and were lifted by earthquakes, forming land; accretionary rocks brought about by the subduction of the oceanic plate (geological features created when rocks on an oceanic plate attach to a continental plate), and strangely shaped rocks formed by the stormy seas of the Pacific Ocean.
Explore and savor the food culture of Muroto Geopark
You can feast on unique gourmet food full of the bounty of the sea in Muroto City in Kochi Prefecture.
Enjoy flavors you’ll only find in Muroto, including Muroto kinme don (alfonsino cooked teriyaki-style and fresh local fish sashimi served with rice), rice cooked in deep-sea water, meals made with deep-sea salt, and dishes that make the most of deep-sea fish.
This rich food culture came about thanks to Muroto’s peculiar topographical features. Its steep submarine topography, which drops off sharply by the coast, creates an upwelling current—an ocean current from the sea depths that collides with the wall of the ocean floor and surges upward. This current means that nutrient-rich deep-sea water rises close to the surface, resulting in abundant fishing grounds where diverse fish gather. Since the fishing grounds are close to the port, they offer the great advantage of enabling the distribution of still-fresh fish immediately after they are caught, supporting the fresh seafood of Muroto.
Enjoy flavors you’ll only find in Muroto, including Muroto kinme don (alfonsino cooked teriyaki-style and fresh local fish sashimi served with rice), rice cooked in deep-sea water, meals made with deep-sea salt, and dishes that make the most of deep-sea fish.
This rich food culture came about thanks to Muroto’s peculiar topographical features. Its steep submarine topography, which drops off sharply by the coast, creates an upwelling current—an ocean current from the sea depths that collides with the wall of the ocean floor and surges upward. This current means that nutrient-rich deep-sea water rises close to the surface, resulting in abundant fishing grounds where diverse fish gather. Since the fishing grounds are close to the port, they offer the great advantage of enabling the distribution of still-fresh fish immediately after they are caught, supporting the fresh seafood of Muroto.
Enjoy activities in Muroto Geopark
Learn about geological features and topography on a tour with a local guide or catch and observe rare deep-sea fish on western Japan’s first deep-sea biological fishing experience within the geopark. If you’re lucky, you might even see a whale or dolphins as you look out at the terrain from the sea on a cruising tour in the Pacific Ocean!
Recommended areas for accommodation
Staying in accommodation in the Cape Muroto area in the heart of the geopark means you can enjoy superb views of the Pacific Ocean and fresh seafood.
Or, you could experience historic culture in an old folkhouse in a locality designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in the Kiragawa area.
See the streets of Kiragawa
Famous tourist spots in the Muroto Geopark area
Access information for Muroto Geopark
[Access by car]
・ Approx 2 hours from Kochi City via National Route 55; approx. 2 hours 50 minutes from Tokushima City
[Access by public transport]
・ Train & bus: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes to Nahari Station on the JR Dosan/Tosa Kuroshio Tetsudo (Railway) Gomen-Nahari Line from Kochi Station; approx. 60 minutes by Kochi Tobu Kotsu bus from Nahari Station
・ Plane: Approx 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Kochi Ryoma Airport
・ Approx 2 hours from Kochi City via National Route 55; approx. 2 hours 50 minutes from Tokushima City
[Access by public transport]
・ Train & bus: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes to Nahari Station on the JR Dosan/Tosa Kuroshio Tetsudo (Railway) Gomen-Nahari Line from Kochi Station; approx. 60 minutes by Kochi Tobu Kotsu bus from Nahari Station
・ Plane: Approx 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Kochi Ryoma Airport
Introduction: Tosashimizu Geopark
Tosashimizu Geopark covers an area of approximately 350 square kilometers, including the whole of Tosashimizu City on the southernmost edge of Shikoku, and the sea around it.
Here, you can experience the history of the Earth in the Japanese archipelago, from 38 million years ago to the present day. Places to visit include Cape Ashizuri, the southernmost tip of Shikoku where you can enjoy a superb sight that combines white granite cliffs formed of cooled magma 13 million years ago and a lighthouse, the Tatsukushi Coast, with coral colonies and strange-shaped rocks formed from strata 17 million years old, and coastal terraces in Tsuro, created by uplift of the land. It also has a rich natural world and culture that developed where diverse land meets the Kuroshio current.
Here, you can experience the history of the Earth in the Japanese archipelago, from 38 million years ago to the present day. Places to visit include Cape Ashizuri, the southernmost tip of Shikoku where you can enjoy a superb sight that combines white granite cliffs formed of cooled magma 13 million years ago and a lighthouse, the Tatsukushi Coast, with coral colonies and strange-shaped rocks formed from strata 17 million years old, and coastal terraces in Tsuro, created by uplift of the land. It also has a rich natural world and culture that developed where diverse land meets the Kuroshio current.
Explore and savor the food culture of Tosashimizu Geopark
Tosashimizu City produces the most soda bushi (dried, fermented, and smoked fish fillets made from frigate tuna) in Japan! Use it to make rich broth—they say that "katsuo bonito has a stronger aroma but soda frigate tuna has a richer taste"—a treat you must try. You can also enjoy plenty of delights from the sea unique to Tosashimizu, such as Shimizu saba (mackerel), so fresh you can eat it as sashimi, and fragrant straw-grilled katsuo tataki.
This rich food culture is deeply rooted in Tosashimizu’s geographic conditions. Nutrient-rich seawater is brought to the coast through the influence of the Kuroshio current and the steep submarine topography along the shore, creating abundant fishing grounds where diverse fish gather.
This rich food culture is deeply rooted in Tosashimizu’s geographic conditions. Nutrient-rich seawater is brought to the coast through the influence of the Kuroshio current and the steep submarine topography along the shore, creating abundant fishing grounds where diverse fish gather.
Enjoy activities in Tosashimizu Geopark
You can enjoy marine activities such as taking a glass-bottomed boat to see the corals of the Tatsukushi Coast, or an adventure cruise to experience the magnificence of Cape Ashizuri, invisible from the land. You can also have fun observing the granite along the Cape Ashizuri trails, going on walks around the strangely shaped rocks of the Tatsukushi Coast with a guide, and admiring starry skies from the Ashizuri observatory on this southernmost tip of Shikoku.
Recommended areas for accommodation
We recommend the Cape Ashizuri area if you want to enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean, hot springs, and starry skies.The Tatsukushi area offers fun marine activities, while the town areas with plenty of eateries are better for savoring the food culture.
Ashizuri Onsen is also worth a look
Famous tourist spots in the Tosashimizu Geopark area
Access information for Tosashimizu Geopark
[Access by car]
・ Approx 2 hours 45 minutes via National Route 56/321 from Kochi City; approx. 4 hours 5 minutes from the Matsuyama area.
[Access by public transport]
・ Train & bus: Approx. 2 hours to Nakamura Station on the JR limited express/Tosa Kuroshio Tetsudo (Railway) from Kochi Station, then approx. 55 minutes by Kochi Seinan Kotsu bus from Nakamura Station (alight at “SATOUMI Mae” bus stop)
・ Plane: Approx. 2 hours 45 minutes by car from Kochi Ryoma Airport
*Access by car is the most convenient
・ Approx 2 hours 45 minutes via National Route 56/321 from Kochi City; approx. 4 hours 5 minutes from the Matsuyama area.
[Access by public transport]
・ Train & bus: Approx. 2 hours to Nakamura Station on the JR limited express/Tosa Kuroshio Tetsudo (Railway) from Kochi Station, then approx. 55 minutes by Kochi Seinan Kotsu bus from Nakamura Station (alight at “SATOUMI Mae” bus stop)
・ Plane: Approx. 2 hours 45 minutes by car from Kochi Ryoma Airport
*Access by car is the most convenient
Toward Kagawa’s first registered geopark! What is the Setouchi Sanuki Geopark Plan?
The plan for the Setouchi Sanuki Geopark, which aims to be acknowledged as the first geopark in Kagawa Prefecture, is underway! The Sanuki Geopark Preparatory Committee was established in 2019, and in 2024 this group developed its activities as an associate member of the Japanese Geoparks Network.
Yashima (tabletop topography) in Takamatsu City, famous as a tourist destination, the triangle-shaped mountains standing in different areas of the prefecture (Mount Iino and others), the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, and the beauty of Kankakei Gorge on Shodoshima are in fact all landscapes formed by volcanic activity in Setouchi 14 million years ago.
Even more ordinary scenery is closely linked with geology. Actually, the secret behind the delicious taste of Kagawa Prefecture’s quintessential Sanuki Udon lies in the close relationship to its geological features, including the climate and water quality. Why not experience this for yourself?
Yashima (tabletop topography) in Takamatsu City, famous as a tourist destination, the triangle-shaped mountains standing in different areas of the prefecture (Mount Iino and others), the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, and the beauty of Kankakei Gorge on Shodoshima are in fact all landscapes formed by volcanic activity in Setouchi 14 million years ago.
Even more ordinary scenery is closely linked with geology. Actually, the secret behind the delicious taste of Kagawa Prefecture’s quintessential Sanuki Udon lies in the close relationship to its geological features, including the climate and water quality. Why not experience this for yourself?
Tourist spots to enjoy the beauty of Kagawa Prefecture’s natural world
Head out on a geo journey!
Shikoku is home to plenty of places where you can feel the history of the land and the power of nature. It fascinates with stunning scenery, local cuisine, activities, hot springs, and more. Experience the wonders of Shikoku’s natural world and culture for yourself through your travels! We recommend a driving trip to access places where you can explore geological features. Why not use a rental car to travel a little further and visit new places?