WONDER AROUNDSHIKOKU

Guiding your trip to new adventures in Japan

Explore abundant nature and history in Shikoku,
Japan's hidden gem

It may be the smallest of Japan's main islands, but Shikoku is brimming with natural beauty and rich cultural traditions.
At the island's heart, vast mountains and crystal-clear streams make for an impressive scene,
while encircling the entire island is an ancient Buddhist pilgrimage route complete with no less than 88 temples.
The island is also home to many historical structures and traditional Japanese homes that offer wholly original experiences for the avid traveler.

Nature

Enjoy spellbinding views of Shikoku from above

There's no better way to experience the majesty of Shikoku than from atop one of its numerous mountains. Regardless of your experience level, there are many ways and places to scale the slopes and take in the view. Hop on board the ropeway through the Kankakei Gorge where panoramic views await. Hike a spiritual trail in Kochi and follow in the footsteps of Shugendo pilgrims. Or take a 330-meter journey on a chairlift up nearby Mount Tsurugi for a resplendent view.

Culture

Unique cultural experiences found nowhere else

Despite its small size, Shikoku has developed its own unique traditions that have enticed visitors for centuries. One of the highlights is the annual Murakami Suigun Boat Race which takes place in the height of the summer. In Tokushima, an 800-year-old tradition of indigo dying lives on. And in Kochi's Iwamoto Temple, monks will guide you through the practice of meditating while sitting cross-legged in the Shimanto River.

Activity

Castle stays and art islands are just some of the activities on offer

Although natural sights in Shikoku are an important draw for tourists, the island's cultural activities are equally as fulfilling. In Ozu City, visitors can stay at Ozu Castle for an unforgettable night of accommodations, while Naoshima, a small island in the Seto Inland Sea, is famous for its art galleries and museums. In the Iya Valley, enjoy a leisurely overnight stay at Chiiori, a 300-year-old Japanese traditional home that will transport you to a time lost to history.

Recommended Itineraries
in Shikoku

  • Experience Fresh Seafood and Jaw-dropping Scenery on Shikoku

    Experience Fresh Seafood and Jaw-dropping Scenery on Shikoku

    Tokushima / Kochi

  • Explore Cultural Shikoku

    Explore Cultural Shikoku

    Kagawa / Tokushima

  • Nature and Food Tour across Shikoku

    Nature and Food Tour across Shikoku

    Tokushima / Kochi

  • Shikoku's Diverse Nature

    Shikoku's Diverse Nature

    Ehime / Kochi

Explore Japan
through the Four Seasons

Shikoku in the News

  • Japan on and off the trail

    Japan on and off the trail

    National Geographic

    Visitors to Japan have likely heard about the cherry blossoms, hot springs, and Mount Fuji—maybe even the snowy slopes of Niseko and sun-kissed islands of Okinawa—yet much of Japan's great outdoors remains unknown. Take the relatively under-visited regions of Shikoku and Tohoku, one a short flight west of Tokyo, the other an easy train trip north, which reward travelers who veer off the beaten path with scenic coastal trails, hikes to sacred peaks, and a host of other experiences in nature.

  • Embark on High-Altitude Adventure in Breathtaking Japan

    Embark on High-Altitude Adventure in Breathtaking Japan

    Travel + Leisure

    Japan’s mountainous landscape means it’s the land of many beautiful vistas. To truly see all Japan has to offer, visitors should aim high. Fill your travel itinerary with thrilling high-altitude adventures, scenic treks, historic mountain villages, and panoramic perspectives in some of the country’s most awe-inspiring natural landscapes.

  • Shikoku: Where nature meets tradition

    Shikoku: Where nature meets tradition

    BBC

    Blessed with majestic peaks, pristine waterways and surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the Seto Inland Sea, the island of Shikoku provides a myriad opportunities to explore nature. It is also the home of Japan’s most famous pilgrimage, the Shikoku Henro, a journey covering 88 temples with connections to the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai).

  • Discover Japan: Forest Bathing and Spiritual Connections

    Discover Japan: Forest Bathing and Spiritual Connections

    CNN

    Embark on a short leg of the 88 Shikoku Pilgrimage, a historic route dating back over 1,200 years that connects 88 Buddhist temples on the island of Shikoku. Each of these temples is connected to Kobo Daishi, a revered monk who trained and traveled in the region.

Introduction

  • Secret Japan, Deep Shikoku by Kochi Amigo.inc

    Secret Japan, Deep Shikoku by Kochi Amigo.inc

    We will guide you to the unique traditions, culture, food, and nature of Shikoku Island.

  • Anabuki Travel Corp. -Discover Shikoku

    Anabuki Travel Corp. -Discover Shikoku

    Discover Shikoku: Bespoke travel redefined. Your exclusive journey through Japan’s mystique awaits—where every detail is meticulously tailored to exceed your expectations.

  • Shikoku Tours -Shikoku, Japan's last frontier-

    Shikoku Tours -Shikoku, Japan's last frontier-

    Build a strong, community-based inbound tourism industry Discover, preserve and improve Shikoku’s tourist resources

  • Adventure Travel in Shikoku

    Adventure Travel in Shikoku

    The Appeals of Adventure Travel in Shikoku

Wonder aroundJapan

Shikoku

Shikoku is brimming with natural beauty and rich cultural traditions. At the island's heart, vast mountains and crystal-clear streams make for an impressive scene, while encircling the entire island is an ancient Buddhist pilgrimage route complete with no less than 88 temples.

Hokkaido

Tohoku

Greater Tokyo

Central Japan

Kansai

San'in

Setouchi

Shikoku

Kyushu

Okinawa