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The smallest of Japan’s four mainland islands, Shikoku is found in the southwest of the archipelago and made up four prefectures: Ehime, Kagawa, Kochi, and Tokushima. What Shikoku lacks in size it makes up for with some of the country’s best beaches, luscious green mountains, and a fascinating history that encompasses both religion and trade. Although admittedly less accessible than other parts of mainland Japan, the reward for the extra travel time is calmer cities, uncrowded sights, and a whole host of undiscovered places.
Shikoku is a popular destination among nature buffs and with good reason. The 225-kilometre-long island has a rich and varied landscape with its mountainous centre flattening out into fantastic sand beaches which stretch around the entirety of the island. A highlight of the island’s natural side is its rivers; Yoshino River is famous for river rafting while Shimanto River is better suited for a calm boat trip passing by Kochi Prefecture’s picturesque scenery. Cyclists often take on the challenge of travelling from the north of Ehime Prefecture across the six suspension bridges back to Honshu island via the Shimanami Kaido. As well as watersports and cycling, Shikoku offers myriad outdoor activities including mountain climbing, paragliding, and bungee jumping.
With much of the southern part of the island uninhabitable, the majority of Shikoku’s cities are located around the northern coastline. Historical sites include castles, the old Besshi copper mine, and Dogo Onsen, believed to be one of the country’s oldest natural hot springs. The cities are also top spots for trying out the local cuisine. As well as seafood a popular choice thanks to the neighbouring oceans, the country is well-known for its udon noodles, notably sanuki udon which has its roots in Kagawa Prefecture, as well as citrus fruits and Tokushima ramen.
Shikoku has had religious significance for centuries thanks to the Shikoku Pilgrimage. The pilgrimage is a 1,200-kilometre circuit consisting of 88 Buddhist temples which many pilgrims and tourists come to complete, whether just a leg of the trail or the whole course. The mountainous areas, as well as the island’s other less urban areas, are a good representation of rural Japan with a distinct lack of the usual busy, convenience store-laden streets.- Shimanto River
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- Kochi Prefecture Tsuno Town, Yusuhara Town, Nakatosa Town, Shimanto Town, Shimanto City
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