Top 15 Recommended Tourist Spots in Shikoku! Introducing popular tourist spots in each of the four prefectures!

Tourist Spots in Tokushima Prefecture

Let's start with Tokushima Prefecture, located at the eastern end of Shikoku. It's famous for the Naruto Strait Bridge, where you can see whirlpools, and the Awa Odori festival, one of Shikoku's three major festivals. There are also numerous nature-oriented tourist spots, such as the Iya Valley in the Sanuki Mountains National Park.

Naruto Strait

The Naruto Strait stretches between Tokushima Prefecture and Hyogo Prefecture's Awaji Island. It's renowned for its famous whirlpools and has been selected as one of Japan's top 100 scenic spots.

There are two recommended ways to enjoy the sights of the Naruto Strait:

The first is from the Naruto Strait Bridge, which is 1,629 meters long. The "Uzunomichi" pedestrian walkway runs beneath the road where vehicles pass. From a height of 45 meters above the whirlpools, you can observe them up close, offering an impressive view! There are also exhibits explaining the bridge's structure, allowing you to learn more about the Naruto Strait Bridge.

The second option is to take the Uzushio Kansen boat and view the whirlpools from the sea. You can get a close-up look at the powerful whirlpools, which are said to reach speeds of up to 20 kilometers per hour. If you're planning a visit, it's recommended to check the website in advance for the best viewing times, especially during the spring tide.

• Access: 10 minutes by car from Naruto Station

Oku-Iya Sightseeing Monorail *Closed (No scheduled reopening in 2023)

Known for the "Kazurabashi" vine bridge, a nationally designated important intangible folk cultural property, the Oku-Iya Sightseeing Monorail offers a 65-minute tour of the scenic Iya Valley, which stretches about 8 kilometers and was formed by the flow of the Yoshino River. This monorail is the world's top tourist monorail in all aspects, with a total length of 4,600 meters, a height difference of 590 meters, and a two-person cabin featuring a cute design inspired by a rhinoceros beetle.

The monorail slowly moves through the midst of nature, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely sightseeing experience. As it gradually gains altitude, you can even see the peak of Mount Tsurugi, which is a symbol of Tokushima Prefecture, from the highest point.

As it's a popular attraction, tickets often sell out in the morning on weekends. It's recommended to visit as early as possible.

• Access: 53 minutes by car from Oboke Station

Mount Bizan ropeway

Mount Higashi, also known as "Bizan," has an elevation of 290 meters and is characterized by its gently sloping shape resembling an eyebrow when seen from anywhere in Tokushima City. This ropeway allows easy access to the mountaintop and has become a popular tourist spot. The location was also featured in the 2016 movie "Mount Higashi - Bisan -," based on a story by Masashi Sada.

The ropeway ride to the summit takes about 6 minutes. As it ascends, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Tokushima City. On clear days, you can take in the grand panorama of the Aso Mountains and the Seto Inland Sea. It's also known as one of the best night view spots in Shikoku, making it worth visiting both during the day and at night.

At the Mount Bizan Park on the summit, there are romantic spots like "lovers' spots" (padlocks) and LED kaleidoscopes, making it particularly recommended for couples and families.

• Access: 10 minutes on foot from Tokushima Station.

Tourist Spots in Kagawa Prefecture

Next, let's introduce Kagawa Prefecture, located in the northeastern part of Shikoku. It's connected to the main island of Honshu by the Seto Ohashi Bridge, which boasts a world-class length of 37.3 kilometers.

Kagawa is famous for its local specialty, Sanuki Udon! In recent years, it has declared itself the "Udon Prefecture," becoming a popular destination for many tourists.

Kotohira-gu Shrine

Kotohira-gu Shrine is situated on Mt. Zozu in the town of Kotohira and is the head shrine of the approximately 600 Kotohira-gu Shrines found throughout Japan.

Since the 19th century, it has been revered as the guardian deity of maritime transportation, and one of the highlights is the numerous votive tablets offering prayers for safe voyages from fishermen and sailors.

Kotohira-gu Shrine is famous for its 785 stone steps leading from the entrance town to the main shrine. It's an authentic experience to climb the steps and make a visit, even if you break a little sweat! Every year during the Grand Festival, the "Konpira Stone Steps Marathon" is held, utilizing these steps. If you're confident in your physical abilities, why not consider participating?

In August 2022, the shrine stamps have been renewed with three new designs. If you're collecting shrine stamps, be sure to check them out!

• Access: 12 minutes by car from Kotohira Station

Chichibugahama Beach

Chichibugahama Beach has been gaining attention, especially on social media, as it resembles the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia, South America, during low tide at sunset.

Stretching about 1 kilometer along the coastline facing the Seto Inland Sea in Nio-cho, Mitoyo City, it offers a stunning view of the sunset reflecting on the water, visible only at limited times. This beautiful scenery earned it a place in Japan's top 100 sunsets selection.

During the summer beach season, it's recommended to use the Chichibugahama Port for beach access. It's equipped with showers and toilets, and there are shops selling souvenirs and dining facilities, making it a spot you'll want to visit when sightseeing.

In addition, there are plenty of delicious gourmet restaurants and accommodation facilities in the Chichibugahama Beach area! It's not just for a day trip; staying overnight and enjoying a full day of activities is also highly recommended.

• Access: 15 minutes by car from Mino Station

Shodoshima Island

Shodoshima is a small island with a population of about 28,000 located in the Seto Inland Sea. Traditionally known for its fishing and shipbuilding industries, the island has been putting efforts into tourism development in recent years. Some popular tourist spots include the Angel Road, a path that appears only during low tide and connects Shodoshima with a nearby island, and the Shodoshima Olive Park with its iconic white windmills, which are said to have been the inspiration for an anime setting.

At the Shodoshima Olive Park, you can enjoy the view of the Seto Inland Sea and the refreshing aroma of approximately 2,000 olive trees and 130 varieties of herbs planted within the park.

Shodoshima Island has been used as a filming location for various movies, taking advantage of its beautiful scenery. The "Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village" allows you to experience the nostalgic atmosphere of Showa-era movie sets and immerse yourself in the history and culture of Japanese films. With many photogenic spots, it's perfect for photography!

• Access: 35 minutes by high-speed boat from Takamatsu Port

Tourist Spots in Ehime Prefecture

Ehime Prefecture is located in the northwestern part of Shikoku and has several islands, such as Oshima and Nakajima, floating in the Seto Inland Sea.

One of its famous attractions is the Dogo Onsen Honkan, known as Japan's oldest hot spring resort and a setting in movies. It's also a fascinating destination with many historical tourist spots from the era when it was called Iyo Province.

Faucet that Pours Mandarin Orange Juice

According to the 2020 statistics by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, Ehime Prefecture is the top producer of citrus fruits, including mandarin oranges, in Japan!

One unique and popular spot where you can enjoy this local specialty is the "Orange BAR," also known as the "Faucet that Pours Mandarin Orange Juice," located inside Matsuyama Airport in Ehime Prefecture.

True to its name, when you twist the faucet, fresh mandarin orange juice comes out. It's a spot where both kids and adults can have fun and feel like children again. The juice is made from seasonal varieties of mandarin oranges, so you can enjoy different flavors depending on the time of year. The price is just 350 yen per cup, making it easy to savor the fresh taste.

The exterior of the shop features "Mikyan," a cute mascot character of Ehime Prefecture, depicted as a mandarin and a puppy. When you visit, be sure to take photos with the juice and the mascot for a fun experience.

• Access: Inside Matsuyama Airport, Ehime Prefecture

Dogo Onsen Honkan

Dogo Onsen Honkan is located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, and is famous as one of Japan's three oldest hot springs, along with Arima Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture and Shirahama Onsen in Wakayama Prefecture. The historic wooden building has undergone numerous renovations and refurbishments, and in 1994, it became the first public bathhouse in Japan to be designated as an Important Cultural Property by the government.

Inside the building, you can find the "Rei no Yu," a hot spring bath made with the finest granite, where you can relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Dogo Onsen Honkan is also said to have served as a location in Studio Ghibli films. The illuminated building at night is another charming aspect. The colorful lights make it a must-see spot for tourism in Ehime.

In addition to Dogo Onsen Honkan, there are other facilities such as the sister hot spring facility "Dogo Onsen Tsubaki no Yu" and the new hot spring facility "Dogo Onsen Bekkan Asukanoyu." If you're a hot spring enthusiast, be sure to enjoy them along with the main attraction.

• Access: 11 minutes by car from Matsuyama Station

Matsuyama Castle

Matsuyama Castle is situated at the center of Matsuyama City, occupying a vast area of approximately 429.40 square kilometers. It consists of the main keep located on the mountaintop of Mt. Katsuyama at an altitude of 132 meters, and the secondary and tertiary keeps situated at the foot of the mountain. Originally built during the Edo period, it is one of the twelve surviving original castles and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and one of Japan's Top 100 Castles.

One of the highlights of Matsuyama Castle is its main keep, which rises to an elevation of 161 meters. This height makes it the tallest among the twelve surviving original castles, three times taller than Himeji Castle, another flatland castle. Gazing up from below, you can't help but be impressed by its imposing presence.

Another attraction is the panoramic view of Matsuyama City seen from the main keep. The mountaintop of Mt. Katsuyama, where the main keep is located, is easily accessible by ropeway or lift. The facility is also barrier-free, allowing anyone to use it comfortably, making it another recommended point.

From the main keep at the top of the castle, you can overlook the Seto Inland Sea on clear days. At night, you can enjoy the illuminated night view lit up by the city lights, offering a different charm from the daytime scenery.

• Access: 10 minutes by Matsuyama City Tram to "Dogo Onsen" and 5 minutes on foot from "Ogaido" stop.

Tourist Spots in Kochi Prefecture

Kochi Prefecture is known for producing many historical figures, including Sakamoto Ryoma and Itagaki Taisuke, and for its Kochi Castle, which was built in the 1600s.

More than half of the prefecture's area is rural, with the highest production of ginger and eggplants in Japan. The countryside along the Shimanto River offers a peaceful rural landscape and abundant natural beauty, making it a charming destination.

Whale Watching

Facing Tosa Bay, Kochi Prefecture is renowned as one of Japan's top whale watching spots, maintaining a high encounter rate of over 80% each year. The whales seen in Tosa Bay are a species called "Bryde's Whales," characterized by their length of 12 to 15 meters and three ridges on their upper jaw.

The whale watching season in Tosa Bay runs from late April to mid-October. If you're lucky, you may also encounter other marine creatures like dolphins! To fully enjoy the sea of Tosa, it's recommended to participate in local activities and tours with experienced guides. While on your trip, take care not to overindulge or lack sleep and manage your health for the extended boat ride.

• Access: 6 minutes by car from Tosa-Irino Station

Monet's Garden

Modeled after the garden in Giverny, France, loved by the French Impressionist painter Claude Monet, this garden is located in Kitagawa Village in eastern Kochi Prefecture. The garden is divided into three main areas.

In the Flower Garden, various-colored flowers bloom in a palette of seasonal beauty, welcoming visitors with different scenery on each visit. The rose arches and Norman fences are some of the charming flower beds to enjoy.

In the Water Garden, the world of Monet's masterpiece "Water Lilies" is faithfully reproduced, allowing you to experience the unique world created by water lilies and Japanese plants like wisteria and cherry blossoms.

Lastly, the Garden of Bordighera is inspired by Monet's travels to the Mediterranean. It features plants that grow along the Mediterranean coast, such as palm trees and olives, creating a feeling of being on an overseas journey.

• Access: 7 minutes by car from Tano Station

Muroto Cape

Muroto Cape, located in Muroto City, Kochi Prefecture, is a scenic spot designated as Muroto-Anan Kaigan National Park and a UNESCO Global Geopark.

A 2.6-kilometer rugged reef promenade runs along the coastline, allowing visitors to explore the area on foot. Along the promenade, you can admire various strange rocks, geological formations formed over long periods, and subtropical plants unique to the southern region.

In the evening and night, the spot becomes lively with tourists and locals coming to enjoy the sunset and night view. The unobstructed view allows you to be moved by the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. Don't forget to take a photo with the bright white lighthouse!

• Access: 10 minutes by car from the center of Muroto City.

Enjoying Shikoku's Gourmet Spots

Shikoku, surrounded by the sea and with thriving agriculture in its inland areas, offers a variety of delicious gourmet dishes packed with fresh seafood and mountain delicacies.

Each of the four prefectures that make up Shikoku has a unique history, fostering different food cultures, which contributes to the diverse range of gourmet options available. Here, we introduce must-visit gourmet spots in Shikoku.

Tokushima Ramen (Inotani)

Originating as a street stall ramen around 1949 after World War II, Tokushima's local specialty, Tokushima Ramen, has been loved by many people up to the present day.

It comes in three varieties: "Chairo" with a pork bone soy sauce base, "Yellow" with a soup made of chicken bones and vegetables, and "White" with a light taste. It is served with classic toppings such as green onions and bamboo shoots, along with sweet and savory flavored pork and eggs.

With its rich flavor and satisfying volume, even adult men can feel full after just one bowl.

"Inotani" is the main shop in Tokushima City, a famous place for Tokushima Ramen where even celebrities visit! Be sure to savor the harmony of chewy homemade noodles and flavorful soup.

• Access: 11 minutes on foot from Tokushima Station

Katsuo Cuisine (Myojinmaru)

Katsuo (bonito) in Kochi Prefecture has been cherished and enjoyed by the locals since ancient times, to the extent that it has been designated as the prefectural fish. To be able to enjoy delicious bonito in an era without preservation techniques, the cooking method called "tataki" has become widespread. Now, it is renowned as a local gourmet dish throughout the country.

"Myojinmaru" is a restaurant that offers fresh flavors, as they catch bonito using traditional pole-and-line fishing methods and cook them on the spot.

Their specialty is the "Straw-grilled Tataki with Sauce and Salt Set," which won first place in a prefectural election. You can savor the aroma of straw-grilled bonito while enjoying both the sauce and salt flavors, making it a popular choice!

Additionally, you can also try the "Wara-yaki" of Katsuo Haranbo, which is a rare part of bonito's belly. Please do enjoy the rich flavor.

• Access: 3 minutes on foot from Ohashidori Station

Sanuki Udon (Gamou)

When it comes to Kagawa Prefecture, Sanuki Udon is a must-try local gourmet dish. Kagawa is often referred to as the "Udon Prefecture," and once you visit, you'll be amazed at the sheer number of udon shops.

Sanuki Udon is known for its light soup and chewy noodles. To be called "Sanuki Udon," it must be manufactured within Kagawa Prefecture, meeting five specific criteria, including water content and aging time.

The long-established renowned shop "Gamou" is located in Kamo-cho, Sakaide City, with beautiful countryside views. People from all over Japan visit to savor their udon. In addition to udon, their homemade tempura is also recommended. Be sure to try it together with udon.

• Access: 15 minutes on foot from Kamogawa Station

Recommended Itinerary for Sightseeing

Now, let's introduce some recommended model courses for sightseeing in Shikoku.

Shikoku can be easily accessed by car from Honshu (the main island of Japan) using the Seto Ohashi Bridge and the Naruto Strait Bridge. There are many beautiful driving courses with scenic views, so using a rental car for sightseeing is highly recommended. Each of the four prefectures in Shikoku has its own airport, allowing for smooth and comfortable access by air as well.

Day Trip Model Course

For a day trip to Shikoku, Ehime Prefecture is recommended, as it can be accessed by car via the Nishi-Seto Expressway from Honshu.

The first spot you'll want to visit in Ehime is "Dogo Onsen" located in the city center. With its historic and elegant building, it is said to have been the inspiration for a Studio Ghibli film and is a must-visit spot even if you don't bathe in the hot springs.

After exploring Dogo Onsen, head to "Matsuyama Castle" also located in the city center of Ehime. This castle is a landmark of Ehime Prefecture, and from its main keep, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Matsuyama city.

The walk from Dogo Onsen to Matsuyama Castle takes about 20 minutes. Along the way, you'll find many shops offering delicious Matsuyama gourmet, making it perfect for a foodie stroll.

After touring Matsuyama Castle, visit the nearby "Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum." As the core art museum in Matsuyama, it holds various events and is a spot enjoyed not only by locals but also by travelers.

1 Night 2 Days Model Course

For a 1-night 2-day trip, on the second day, head to the neighboring Kagawa Prefecture. Stay overnight in Ehime city on the first day. Ehime city offers a wide range of hotels from business to luxury, making it an area where you won't have trouble finding accommodation.

On the second day, visit Shodoshima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea with splendid views. From Ehime city, take the JR train to Takamatsu Station and then board a ferry from Takamatsu Port to Shodoshima. It takes about an hour by JR from Ehime Station to Takamatsu Station.

Once you arrive at Shodoshima, your sightseeing adventure begins. When visiting Shodoshima, don't miss the must-see attractions such as "Angel Road," "Olive Park Road Station," "Kankakei," and "Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village." These spots offer picturesque natural landscapes that will create unforgettable memories.

2 Nights 3 Days Model Course

If you have a slightly longer schedule for a 2-night 3-day trip, after exploring Shodoshima on the second day, spend the night in the city of Takamatsu. There are many hotels around Takamatsu Port and Takamatsu Station, with popular options being hotels with natural hot springs, like the "Dormy Inn Hotel."

On the final day, visit the mainland of Kagawa Prefecture for sightseeing. If you are interested in shrines and temples, "Kotohira-gu Shrine" is a great choice, while for breathtaking views, "Haha-no-hama" is highly recommended. From Takamatsu city, it takes about 1.5 hours to reach Kotohira-gu Shrine and about 2 hours to reach Haha-no-hama by train.

When you feel hungry during sightseeing, be sure to enjoy Kagawa Prefecture's specialty, "Sanuki Udon." Along the way to these sightseeing spots, you'll find many famous udon shops. Kagawa is famous for having a wide variety of udon restaurants, making it one of the characteristics of the prefecture.

Each of the 4 Prefectures Has Its Own Unique Charm!

How did you like it? We introduced recommended sightseeing spots and gourmet spots in each of the four prefectures in Shikoku.

As you can see, Shikoku has distinctive tourist destinations in each prefecture. When visiting this region with its abundance of nature and historical spots, be sure to refer to this article for your trip planning!

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