(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor Adeline)

Shikoku (四国, which literally means “four countries”) is the smallest among Japan’s four main islands as well as the least populous one with over 4 million people. It is located at the southwest of Honshu Island and is east of Kyushu Island. Just as its name implies, Shikoku is divided into four prefectures that refers to the former four provinces that made up this island, namely Awa, Tosa, Sanuki, and Iyo. These four provinces are replaced by today’s four prefectures of Tokushima, Kochi, Kagawa, and Ehime respectively. The previous names of the four prefectures, remain in use today in various cultural forms such as “Awa-Odori,” a famous dance, and “Sanuki udon,” a famous dish.

In the 12^th century, the Heike (Taira) clan was defeated by the Genji (Minamoto) during the sea battle of Dannoura that took place near the Shimonoseki in western Honshu. The Heike fled to Shikoku and started their life there.

Among the four main islands of Japan, Shikoku is one of country’s least traveled to areas. Nonetheless, there are still many reasons for you to explore Shikoku, one being the well known Shikoku Pilgrimage during which you follow in the footsteps of the Buddhist monk Kukai (空海, literally means ‘Empty Ocean’) to visit 88 temples that he built throughout the island. Known posthumously as Kobo Daishi (弘法大師, Venerable Master who propagated the Buddha Dharma, 774-835 CE), Kukai founded the Shingon School of Buddhism. He was also a civil servant, scholar, poet, and artist who is also well known as a calligrapher and engineer. Among his many achievements is the invention of the kana which is written script of the Japanese language combined with the kanji (Chinese characters). This pilgrimage is one of Japan’s most famous pilgrimages that allows you to see the entire island.

Between the historical sites, temples, and natural beauty, there are also palaces in Matsuyama and Kochi, the 1,348 step climb to the Konpira shrine, the Awa Odori festival in Tokushima, and the mountains of the Iya Valley and the Oboke Gorge. The island has excellent onsen (hot springs) and hiking sites, natural parks, and forests waiting for you to explore.

Weather

The Shikoku region’s climate differs wildly according to which side of its mountain range you are on. This mountain range cuts through the centre of the island. Its weather remains warm and wet in winter on the Pacific coast. In summer, Kochi has very high temperatures and hit 41°C (105.8°F) in the summer of 2013 – the highest ever recorded temperature in Japan. During winter, heavy snow blankets the whole Iya Valley.

The best time for any pilgrimage to take place is in April, during spring. Outdoor nature activities are best to be done between July and September when the sun is shining, the rivers are running, and the surf is rolling, not forgetting August when the wildest dance party Awa-odori Matsuri takes place in Tokushima.

Tradition

Traditionally, the pilgrims visiting the 88-temples associated with Kukai embark on the pilgrimage on foot. However, modern-day pilgrims can choose to travel by bus or rental car as for a pilgrim to achieve the toshiuchi (通し打ち, complete the pilgrimage in one go), it takes about six weeks on foot but only 10 days by bus to complete the entire 1,198.96 kilometres (745 miles) circuit around Shikoku’s 88 temples. Pilgrims recite the Heart Surta in either Japanese romaji or in English at each temple as well.

The Japanese word for pilgrimage is henro (遍路) and the pilgrims of Shikoku are called o-henro-san (お遍路さん). They are often seen wearing white clothing adorned with the characters reading do-gyo ni-nin (同行二人, two traveling together), sedge hats, and kongō-zue (金剛杖, walking sticks). They also accept osettai (お接待, alms) that are frequently given generously by the locals.

Many pilgrims begin and complete the journey by visiting the Shingon Buddhist School’s headquarters, Mount Koya in Wakayama prefecture, which is considered a must visit site. The Koya-san’s 21-kilometre (13-mile) walking trail still exists but most pilgrims use the train instead.

There are two other major traditions preserved in the Tokushima and Kochi prefectures. In Tokushima, there is the annual 4-day Awa Odori parade that takes place in August in conjunction with the Obon festival. This 400-year-old festival, Japan’s largest, never fails to attract around 1.3 million locals and visitors from overseas each year.

The annual Yosakoi Festival in Kochi prefecture has been held for over 60 years. It is one of Japan’s 10 largest festivals and a summer pastime for the people of Kochi. This festival also takes place in August, from the 9th to the 12th, every year and attracts large throngs of tourists and dancers from around Japan.

People’s Characters

Lying in the heart of Shikoku is Kagawa, an area known to be filled with Hype Beasts who enjoy the latest trends and fashions. In stark contrast, in Tokushima, you find more moderate yet strong-willed people who are diligent and industrious, while in Ehime you will find people who are laid back and good-mannered, but they also tend to by shy and conservative. The open, large-hearted and extravagant people live in Kochi, many of whom love to drink.

Dialects

There is a variety of dialects in Shikoku that can roughly be broken up into two on either side of the Shikoku mountain range. In the north, such as Kagawa and Tokushima, the Sanuki-ben and Awa-ben dialects are soft and feminine, while in the south, such as Ehime and Kochi, the Iyo-ben and Tosa-ben are said to be strong and masculine. Although the dialects have many characteristics and differences, all Shikoku people commonly uses “ken” or “yaken” to replace “kara” or “dakara” to say “because” in standard Japanese.

Words are differentiated in various dialects according to their pitch. Many Shikoku dialects have the Kyoto-Osaka-type accent and its variations that are similar to the Kansai dialect, except for eastern Kochi and south-western Ehime.

Etiquette

For a general guidelines on Japanese etiquette and manners, please click here.

Food

Udon is one of Shikoku’s major foods often served hot as a noodle soup. Its simplest form is kake udon that is accompanied by the kakejiru – a soup that is mildly flavoured, made of dashi (cooking stock), mirin (rice wine), and shoyu (soy sauce). This dish is usually topped with thinly chopped spring onions with thin slices of kamaboko (a half-moon-shaped fish cake). There are other common toppings included in the dish also, such as tempura (often prawn or kakiage – a mixed tempura fritter), or aburaage (deep-fried tofu pockets seasoned with mirin, soy sauce and sugar).

As Shikoku is surrounded by the ocean, seafood is definitely the common food of the region. Shikoku’s warm climate allows the cultivation of plenty of citrus fruits such as mikan and yuzu that have become closely associated with the areas they are grown in.

Each of the prefectures also have their respective and famous local dishes you may like to try:

Kagawa

Udon originates from Kagawa. In particular Kagawa is famous for its Sanuki udon, which you can enjoy in various ways such as dipping the noodle in a rich sauce or eating them in warm broth.

Tokushima

The Tokushima ramen, which includes a raw egg cracked, is well known in the prefecture. It is eaten in a chicken broth or tonkotsu (pork bone) soup though its flavours do vary among the restaurants.

Kochi

Kochi’s regional dish is called “katsuo no tataki” made by broiling thick slices of katsuo (skipjack tuna) and eaten with a special sauce.

Ehime

Ehime’s specialty is the Jakoten, which is a type of small fish that is fried.

Souvenirs

Here’s a list of regional souvenirs you may like to get when you travel around Shikoku:

Kagawa

The traditional craft of Marugame uchiwa is a fan made using a single piece of bamboo, known for their beautiful designs and cooling function.

Tokushima

Accessories made using the aizome dyeing technique is well-known throughout this region. This technique can produce a lovely deep indigo colour and the technique is registered as an intangible cultural property.

Kochi

Many high-quality coral items made from around the prefecture are produced here.

Ehime

Most of the coral accessories in the world are made in Ehime. This region is also famous for its traditional Tobeyaki which is a type of thick and fat porcelain that has beautiful indigo patterns painted onto it.

Getting to Shikoku

The best way to travel to Shikoku is via air from Tokyo. All prefectures are within an hour or an hour and a half from Tokyo. Tokushima is two hours away from Osaka by the highway bus, while the distance between Osaka and Kagawa is roughly two hours on shinkansen (bullet train) and JR line. Taking a flight from Tokyo to Kochi and Ehime is less than an hour. Takamatsu also has flights to Seoul, Korea.

Transportation around Shikoku

The island of Shikoku has train services that follow the coastline, and the Dosan Line train service that connects Kagawa, Tokushima, and Kochi. Tokushima has both railways within the prefecture and the coastal areas. It is the main rail hub that connects Shikoku and Honshu via the Seto Ohashi Bridge. Ferry services are available to other islands within the Seto Inland Sea, from ports such as Takamatsu Port.

Visa’s application

For general guidelines on Japanese tourist visa applications, please click here.

20 Great Places to Visit in Shikoku

Kagawa

Kagawa prefecture (香川県, Kagawa-ken) is the smallest prefecture in Japan but rich in natural and artistic beauty. Its capital is Takamatsu. Kagawa houses one of Japan’s most beloved traditional gardens and Naoshima which consists of several remarkable modern art museums in the country. In addition, it is also the birthplace of udon. All in all, there is a lot to do and see in Kagawa which makes it one of the must visit places in Shikoku.

1. Naoshima

Naoshima (直島) is an hour ferry away from Takamatsu city. As you arrive at Miyanoura port, you are be welcomed by Naoshima’s symbol – the Yayoi Kusama’s “Red Pumpkin”. Naoshima is known as an island off Kagawa’s coast where art has blended into island life. It houses several of Japan’s best modern art museums, and there are even works of art scattered throughout the island.

The museums in Naoshima are unique in their own rights and house several stunning pieces that are absolutely stunning. Some of the more unique museums are the 007 Museum devoted to “The Man with the Red Tattoo” James Bond novel, the Benesse House Museum, and Chichu Art Museum designed by the world-famous architect Tadao Ando, and the Art House Project that turns traditional houses in the Honmura district into works of art. As a result, all schools and gym facilities there have unique designs to match the stylistic buildings in the area.

Apart from art, there are other beautiful attractions on the island, such as its rich natural beauty that delights visitors all year round. The island is filled with blooming azaleas in spring, while swimming and outdoor activities are best enjoyed in the summer. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can taste the local delights too. If you are looking for regional souvenirs, do shop at the Marine station “Naoshima”.

This is definitely an island you won’t want to miss when you visit Shikoku.

Address: Naoshima-cho, Kagawa-gun, Kagawa
Phone: +81-87-892-2299 (Naoshima Tourism Association)
Website: http://www.naoshima.net/en/index.php
Visit Website (Naoshima Tourism Association)

How to get there

1 hour ferry ride from Takamatsu Port

Accommodation Nearby

1. La Curación
   Address: 4780-8 Tsumu-ura, Naos Naoshimahima-cho, Kagawa-gun, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-90-9556-1058
   Website: http://www.episode1fam.com/
2. Seven Beach
   Address: 2310-19, naoshima-cho, Kagawa-gun, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-87-892-4567
   Website: http://yado-sevenbeach.com
3. Guest House Roji to Akari
   Address: 729, Naoshima-cho, Kagawa-gun, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-80-3058-3887
   Website: https://guesthouse-rojitoakari.tumblr.com/

2. Benesse House Museum (Benesse Art Site Naoshima)

Located on the southern coast of Naoshima island, the Benesse (which means “living well”) House Museum is a modern and contemporary art museum and resort. It was designed by the famous architect Tadao Ando, who conceptualised it as the “coexistence of art, nature and architecture”. The complex consists of four buildings, namely the Beach, Museum, Oval, and Park, and it is the centre piece of the Benesse Corporation’s art facilities.

Each building in the complex forms a gallery featuring unique artwork. This is mirrored in the guest rooms, on the beach, in the woodlands, and basically all over the place. The modern art museum on a hill overlooking the sea, is the main attraction of the Benesse House. This museum displays works by Japanese and overseas artists that were inspired by Naoshima’s natural surroundings and its architecture. Guests who stay at the Museum and Oval buildings have the privilege and exclusive access to the museum 24 hours a day.

There are nearly twenty art pieces scattered around the lawns and beaches at the Benesse House in addition to the artwork in the guest rooms and museum, such as the iconic pumpkin. These art works can be found along the cliffs and shore below the museum, and are specifically designed to merge with the natural surroundings where they are placed.

Other facilities such as shops, cafes, restaurants, and a spa in the Benesse House are open to staying guests and visitors. Guests from the Museum and Oval buildings also have the added privileges to dine in exclusive restaurants. The room rates at Benesse House start around 25,000 yen per night and it is the island’s most luxurious accommodation.

Address: Gotanji, Naoshima-cho, Kagawa-gun, Kagawa
Phone: +81-87-892-3223
Operating Hours:
Museum
Open daily from 8am-9pm, last admission at 8pm
Admission: 1,030 yen, free for children under 15 years old and guests of Benesse House
Website: http://www.benesse-artsite.jp/en/benessehouse-museum/index.html

How to get there

Take the 50-minute ride on the Shikoku Kisen ferry to Miyanoura Port from Takamatsu Port and then hop onto the town bus for Tsutsuji-so. Get off at the last stop located at the Benesse House’s east gate. You can talk a 10 or 15-minute walk, or take a 5-minute free shuttle bus to the Benesse House.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Benesse House
   Address: Gotanji, Naoshima, Kagawa-gun, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-87-892-3223
   Website: http://benesse-artsite.jp/en/stay/benessehouse/
2. Mukaejima Guesthouse
   Address: 2835, Naoshima-cho, Kagawa-gun, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-87-892-2876
   Website: http://mukae-jima.com/
3. Guest House Oomiyake
   Address: 855, Naoshima-cho, Kagawa-gun, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-87-892-2328
   Website: http://oomiyake.jp/

3. Kotohira-gu (Konpira) Shrine/Konpira Hot Springs

Kotohira-gu (金刀比羅宮), is one of the most popular Shinto shrines in Kagawa and is the mother shrine of Japan’s various Konpira shrines. It is dedicated to the guardian god of sailors, prayed to for the safety of seafarers across Japan. The shrine is located on the steep slopes of a mountain and well known for its 785-step climb up to the main shrine and 1,368 steps in total to the inner shrine. Although the climb can be tough for some, it is a rewarding and beautiful effort where you can enjoy nature and its beauty. Along the steps are Konpira’s main gate – the o-mon, rows of traditional sweet stalls – gonin byakusho, shaded from the sun, and an art museum – shoin, designated as an Important Cultural Property (ICP). In its vast precincts are other historical buildings such as an ICP asahi-sha and the treasure house Homotsu-kan that exhibits top-class art and cultural items.

Stop by at the Konpira hot springs located at the foot of Konpira-san on the way back. The town, which once flourished during the Edo period (1603-1868), is now filled with hot-spring inns. The spring water contains calcium, sodium, chloride, and a little iron and is gentle to the skin. There are also refreshing foot baths available, especially suitable after a long climb down from Kotohira-gu.

Address:
Kotohira-gu Shrine 892-1 Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa
Konpira Hot Springs Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa
Phone:
Kotohira-gu Shrine +81-877-75-2121
Kotohira-cho Tourist Information Centre +81-877-75-3500
Website:
Kotohira-gu Shrine (Japanese only) http://www.konpira.or.jp/
Konpira Hot Springs (Japanese only) http://www.kotohirakankou.jp/stay.html

How to get there

Kotohira-gu shrine is a 20-minute walk from Kotohira station and a 50-minute drive from Takamatsu Airport. Airport shuttle bus services to Kotohira are available from the airport. It is approximately a 15-minute drive from Zentsuji.

Konpira hot springs are approximately a 10-minute walk from Kotohira station and approximately a 15-minute drive from Zentsuji.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Kotohira Kadan
   Address: 1241-5 Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-877-75-3232
   Website: http://www.kotohira-kadan.jp/english.html
2. Kotohira Grand Hotel Sakuranoshou
   Address: 977-1 Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-877-75-3218
   Website: http://sakuranoshou-kotohira-grand.booked.net
3. Kotosankaku
   Address: 685-11, Nakatado-gun, Kotohira-cho, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-877-75-1000
   Website: http://www.kotosankaku.jp

4. Zentsu-ji

Together with Mt. Koya in Wakayama and Toji Temple in Kyoto, Zentsuji (総本山善通寺) is one of the three holy sites related to the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi. This temple is known as the birthplace of Kobo Daishi as well as the 75^th point along the 88-temple Shikoku Pilgrimage which traces the route on which the late Kobo Daishi was trained. Kobo Daishi took 6 years to build this temple himself after he returned from China in 807 CE. This temple is named after his father, Lord Yoshimichi.

The temple grounds cover 48,4375.97 square feet (45,000 square metres) that are divided into an eastern area “Garan” and western area “Tanjoin”. The main temple and the five-storey pagoda is located on the Garan. The pagoda is a wooden structure with an interesting design that holds a large central pillar that hangs down by a chain from its top, stopping 6 centimetres from the structure’s foundation. The surrounding is very quiet and serene with a 1000-year-old camphor tree that attracts visitors to the area too.

Address: 3-3-1 Zentsuji-cho Zentsuji-city, Kagawa
Phone: +81-877-62-0111
Operating Hours:
7am-5pm
Treasure museum: 8am-5pm, last admission at 4:30pm.
Charm house: 9am-4pm
Admission: Treasure museum 500 yen for adult
Website: http://www.zentsuji.com/english/

How to get there

Zentsuji is 10 minutes away by car from the Trans Shikoku expressway Zentsuji interchange. It is 15 minutes from Kotohira and a 20-minute walk from JR Zentsuji Station.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Zentsuji Grand Hotel
   Address: 8-8-5 Kamiyoshidacho, Zentsuji city, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-877-63-2111
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kagawa_Prefecture-Zentsuji-Zentsuji_Grand_Hotel/15603/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Ohenroyado Tabibito no Yado Kaze no Kuguru
   Address: 306-1 Kamiyoshidacho, Zentsuji city, Kagawa
   Phone:+81-877-63-6110
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kagawa_Prefecture-Zentsuji-Ohenroyado_Tabibito_no_Yado_Kaze_no_Kuguru/144468/
3. Chisun Inn Marugame Zentsuji
   Address: 1587-1 Nishisanbuichi Harada-cho Marugame-shi Kagawa
   Phone: +81-877-21-3711
   Website: http://www.solarehotels.com/en/hotel/shikoku/chisuninn-marugame/

5. Ritsurin Koen

The Ritsurin Koen (栗林公園) is a landscape garden established by the local feudal lords during the early Edo Period, located in Takamatsu city. Ritsurin Koen alongside Kanazawa’s Kenrokuen, Mito’s Kairakuen, and Okayama’s Korakuen are often suggested to be the “three most beautiful gardens of Japan”. It is nonetheless one of the best gardens in Japan and one of the most visited sites in Kagawa.

The spacious koen features several great ponds, beautiful pavilions, serene paths, green hills, large trees, and even a tea house divided between two gardens: in the north a Western style garden and in the south a Japanese style garden. Both gardens are beautifully set in front of the forested Mt. Shiun that serves perfectly as a beautiful backdrop which forms a stunning scene that pleases the eyes.

Within the koen are a number of facilities such as mini-markets, a folk museum, and a few pavilions where you can rest and relax while enjoying your refreshments amidst the beauty of the garden. The Kikugetsu-tei teahouse has verandas overlooking the ponds where you can enter and relax for a small fee.

Address: 1-20-16 Ritsurin-cho, Takamatsu-shi, Kagawa
Operating Hours:Open throughout the year
January: 7am-5pm
February: 7am-5:30pm
March: 6:30am-6pm
April and May: 5:30am-6:30pm
June to August: 5:30am-7pm
September: 5:30am-6:30pm
October: 6am-5:30pm
November: 6:30am-5pm
December: 7am-5:30pm
Admission:400 yen

How to get there

Ritsurin Koen is 2 kilometres south of Takamatsu Castle and JR Takamatsu Station. It is easily accessed by Kotoden or Japan Railway.

By Kotoden
Hop on to the 7-minute train ride of the Kotohira Line from Takamatsu-Chikko Station and get off at the Ritsurin Koen Station. It is a 10-minute walk from the station to the park’s main entrance.

By Japan Railway
Take the train from JR Takamatsu Station on the Tokushima to Ritsurinkoen-Kitaguchi Station route. The journey is only 5 minutes and the park’s main entrance is just 5 minutes walk away.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Daiwa Roynet Hotel Takamatsu
   Address: 8-23, Marugame-Machi, Takamatsu City, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-87-811-7855
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kagawa_Prefecture-Takamatsu-Daiwa_Roynet_Hotel_Takamatsu/136268/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Hotel Kawaroku Her-Stage
   Address: 1-2, Hyakken-Machi, Takamatsu, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-87-821-5666
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kagawa_Prefecture-Takamatsu-Hotel_Kawaroku_Her-Stage/12614/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Takamatsu Hanajukai Onsen Hanajukai
   Address: 3-5-10, Saiho-Cho, Takamatsu City, Kagawa
   Phone: +81-87-861-5580
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kagawa_Prefecture-Takamatsu-Takamatsu_Hanajukai_Onsen_Hanajukai/41416/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

Tokushima

With the Akashi-Kaikyo and Naruto bridges that connects Shikoku to mainland Japan, Tokushima (徳島県, Tokushima-ken) is notably one of the most visited prefectures of Shikoku. Tokushima is very much loved for its interesting and beautiful natural attractions and is best known for the Awa Odori Festival held every year from 12th to 15th of August, the remote Iya Valley, and the whirlpools of Naruto.

6. Awa Odori Festival

Awa Odori (阿波おどり) is the most famous dance festival across Japan, and occurs during the Obon season in mid-August. Awa was previously the name for Tokushima Prefecture and Odori means dance.

Every year between August 12th and 15th, dancers and spectators flock into Tokushima in their millions to witness this “Fool’s Dance” which dates back 400 years. This name stems from the lyrics of a common dance song that can be translated as “Fools dance and fools watch, if both are fools, you might as well dance”.

The main spectacle takes place between 6pm and 10:30pm where groups of “ren” dancers perform on the streets of downtown Tokushima. The groups play traditional musical instruments such as shamisens (traditional Japanese guitar), gongs and drums as they dance through the designated spectator areas (enbujo). Although the dance steps are simple, ren distinguish themselves with colourful uniforms and difficult variations. Females wear yukata (traditional cotton clothing), while the male wear happi (shorter yukata over shorts or pants) that vary from group to group.

Tokushima’s city centre will be closed in the evening and is turned into six large dance stages with either free or paid seating. The free stages attract casual dancers while the paid stages draw the professional groups. The outer stage area is surrounded by food and game stalls, as well as more dancing activities.

If you are planning to join the Awa Odori, you are advised to pre-book accommodation, as most places are normally fully booked months in advance. Alternatively, you may book accommodation in nearby areas such as Naruto (40 minutes by train), Takamatsu (1 hour by train), or Osaka (2.5 hours by car).

For those who missed the festival, you can visit the Awa Odori museum where you will also find dance demonstrations in the dance hall held several times a day. Also, the lower station of the ropeway leading up to the Mount Bizan is located in the Awa Odori Kaikan building.

Awa Odori Kaikan building
Address: 2-20 Shinmachibashi Tokushima, Tokushima
Phone: +81-88-611-1611
Operating Hours:
Day stage: 2pm, 3pm, 4pm daily; 11am available on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays
Night stage: 8pm-8:50 daily
Admission:
Day time: 600 yen
Night time: 800 yen
Website: http://www.awaodori-kaikan.jp/ (Japanese only)

Bizan Mountain Ropeway
Operating Hours:
9am-9pm, 9am-5:30pm from November to March
Admission:
610 yen one way, 1,020 yen round trip
610 yen round trip between 5:30pm and 9pm from April to October

How to get there

Take the Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen to Okayama from Tokyo or Osaka and switch to a rapid train to continue onto Takamatsu. From Takamatsu, hop onto either the local and limited express trains to get to Tokushima.

By bus
Board the direct night buses from Tokyo to Tokushima at the Shinagawa bus terminal in the Shinagawa Station. The journey is around 10 hours.

From Osaka
Two or more highway buses per hour depart from Osaka (OCAT bus terminal and JR Highway Bus and Hankyu Sanbancho bus terminals near Osaka Station, as well as Nankai bus terminal in Namba) to Tokushima Station. The journey is about 2.5 hours.

By Air
Both JAL and ANA operate in Tokushima Airport. JAL flies from Tokushima to Sapporo, Fukuoka, and Tokyo’s Haneda Airport while ANA connects Tokushima with Nagoya’s Chubu Airport.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Shinsoya Onsen Hotel Kazurabashi
   Address: 33-1, Zentoku, Nishiiyayamamura Imakubo, Miyoshi-Shi, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-883-87-2171
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Miyoshi-Shinsoya_Onsen_Hotel_Kazurabashi/20228/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Hotel Sunroute Tokushima
   Address: 1-5-1, Motomachi, Tokushima-Shi, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-886-53-8111
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Tokushima-Hotel_Sunroute_Tokushima/79371/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Hotel Obokekyo Mannaka
   Address: Oboke, Yamashiro-Cho,Miyoshi City, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-883-84-1216
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Miyoshi-Hotel_Obokekyo_Mannaka/53066/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

7. Iya Valley

Located in western Tokushima, the Iya Valley (祖谷渓, Iyakei) is located deep in the heart of the Shikoku Island. This secluded and scenic valley is characterised by deep rocky gorges and steep mountain slopes traditionally crossed by vine bridges. Today, two of the vine bridges, Oku-Iya Kazurabashi and Iya Kazurabashi, are well maintained and remain as some of the most popular tourist sites of the area.

The remote valley also consists of excellent hiking sites, beautiful bridges, and several spectacular onsen. The Iya v-shaped valley is surrounded by forests and has a magnificent view when you look down the steep. In autumn, the emerald green river and red-tinted leaves create a beautiful contrast while in winter a sea of clouds are often seen covering the area, adding a mystical touch to any visit.

There is also a statue of the Peeing Boy on the rock that overlooks the valley. The statue was created based on a story of local kids who dared to test their courage by standing on the rock. It rests atop a large boulder that was left there during the Iya Highway’s construction.

Address: Ikedachomatsuo matsumoto, Miyoshi-city, Tokushima

How to get there

Hop on the train line between Okayama and Kochi from Awa-Ikeda and Oboke Stations. The JR Nampu limited express trains depart every hour from Okayama (1.5 hours journey) and Kochi (1 hour journey). You can also take the 1 hour Japanese Railways limited express trains to Takamatsu from Awa-Ikeda station and the 75-minute ride from Tokushima.

How to get to Okayama
There are several bus operators that run direct highway buses between Awa-Ikeda Bus Terminal and Osaka Hankyu Umeda Station. The trip takes about four hours.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Keikoku no Kakureyado Iyabijin
   Address: 9-3,Zentoku, Nishiiyayamamura, Miyoshi City, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-883-87-2009
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Miyoshi-Keikoku_no_Kakureyado_Iyabijin/56704/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Shinsoya Onsen Hotel Kazurabashi
   Address: 33-1, Zentoku, Nishiiyayamamura Imakubo, Miyoshi-Shi, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-883-87-2171
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Miyoshi-Shinsoya_Onsen_Hotel_Kazurabashi/20228/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Hotel Iya Onsen
   Address: 367-2, Matsuo-Matsumoto, Ikeda-Cho, Miyoshi City, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-883-75-2311
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Miyoshi-Hotel_Iya_Onsen/13663/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

8. Naruto Whirlpool

The Naruto whirlpool is considered one of the world’s top three tides due to its large scale. The Naruto Strait connects the Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and has approximately 1.3 kilometres width. Its narrow size coupled with the tides cause a large amount of water to flow from the Pacific Ocean and the Inland Sea into the strait twice a day. The strait’s current is the fastest in Japan which can sometimes create whirlpools over 20 metres in diameter. The whirlpool is created by the differences in water levels and complex shapes of the strait. Observing the whirlpools can be fun and also thrilling especially when you stepping on the glass floor of Uzunomichi promenade located under the Ohnaruto Bridge and are able to look directly into the sea.

The whirlpools occur around every six hours and are normally seen once in the morning and the afternoon for an hour or two based on the change of tides. Depending on the tides’ intensity, the whirlpools may vary in size. However, they tend to be larger in summer and are the largest during spring tides that occur every two weeks.

It is safe to observe whirlpools from the boats and are best viewed from a sightseeing cruise that gets right next to and among the whirlpools. If you do not wish to spend to go on the boat, the next best option is the view from the Uzunomichi mentioned above.

Address:
Sightseeing boat: Kanko Port, Naruto-cho, Naruto-city, Tokushima
Uzunomichi promenade: Naruto-machi Park, Naruto-cho, Naruto-city, Tokushima
Phone:
Sightseeing boat +81-88-687-0101
Promenade under Ohnaruto Bridge +88-683-6262
Operating Hours:
Sightseeing boat: 9am-4:20pm, a 30-minute cruise
Uzunomichi Promenade: 9am-6pm, 9am-5pm from October-February
Admission:
Sightseeing boat: 1,580-2,260 yen
Uzunomichi Promenade: 510 yen
Website:
Sightseeing boat: http://www.uzusio.com/ (Japanese only)
Uzunomichi Promenade: http://www.uzunomichi.jp/english/

How to get there

The Naruto Park is about seven kilometres north of central Naruto City. The 25-minute bus ride between Naruto Station and Naruto Park runs every hour. These buses pass by the “Naruto Kosoku” bus stop along the way where you can catch a highway bus. Highway buses that travel in the Tokushima direction also stop at “Naruto Koen-guchi” bus stop in Naruto Park along the expressway. From there, you may choose to hop onto one of the sightseeing boats and or walk to the Uzunomichi promenade.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Resort Hotel Moanacoast
   Address: 186-16, Narutocho Tosadomariura Takasuna, Naruto-Shi, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-88-687-2255
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Naruto-Resort_Hotel_Moanacoast/7769/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. NarutoShiozakiOnsen BayResortHotel Naruto Kaigetsu
   Address: 65-8, Fukuike, Tosadomariura, Naruto-Cho, Naruto City, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-50-3160-7333
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Naruto-NarutoShiozakiOnsen_BayResortHotel_Naruto_Kaigetsu/17766/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Renaissance Resort Naruto
   Address: 16-45, Narutocho Tosadomariura Oge, Naruto-Shi, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-88-687-2580
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Naruto-Renaissance_Resort_Naruto/6123/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

9. Oboke and Koboke Gorge

Oboke (大歩危) and Koboke (小歩危) are sometimes known as Oboke-Koboke Gorge or Oboke-Iya Gorge. Lying upstream of the Yoshino-gawa River, located in the western area of Tokushima, these two valleys are surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of the Shikoku mountain range. The valleys were formed by the mainstream of the Yoshino-gawa River, which starts from the Ishizuchi mountain range and flows down through Tokushima, Kochi, and Ehime. The Japanese word “boke” means “dangerous to walk along”. O-boke (big boke) and Ko-boke (small boke) are said to be named so because of the narrow paths formed by the v-shaped sheer rock faces which makes them very dangerous to walk along, regardless of how slowly or carefully you walk.

A full view of the whole valley’s magnificent scenery can be observed from the promenades and platforms along the Japan Railway Dosan Line and Route 32. Ride on a sightseeing boat that shoots down the rapids from Oboke to Koboke for a better look of the valley and enjoy its natural beauty. Interesting rocks such as the Komori (bat) and the Shishi (lion) can also be seen from the boat.

For those who love active sports such as rafting, do not miss the opportunity to get a closer feel of what Oboke and Koboke has to offer.

Address: 1520 Yamashirochonishiu Miyoshi-city, Tokushima
Phone: +81-883-84-1211
Operating Hours: Daily 9am-5pm
Closing Days: During floods or storms
Admission: 1,080 yen

How to get there

The flight from Haneda, Tokyo to Tokushima Airport is 1 hour 15 minutes. From the airport to Tokushima railway station is a 30-minute bus ride. Koboke and Oboke is 1 hour 35 minutes and 1 hour 40 minutes, respectively, on the Japan Railway Tokushima Dosan Line (limited express) via Awa Ikeda Station.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Hotel Obokekyo Mannaka
   Address: Oboke, Yamashiro-Cho,Miyoshi City, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-883-84-1216
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Miyoshi-Hotel_Obokekyo_Mannaka/53066/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Sunriver Ooboke
   Address: 1259-1, Yamashirocho Nishiu, Miyoshi-Shi, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-50-3066-2111
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Miyoshi-Sunriver_Ooboke/54677/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Nouka Minshuku Bokenouen
   Address: 1938, Kamimyo, Yamashiro-Cho, Miyoshi City, Tokushima
   Phone: +81-883-84-1273
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Tokushima_Prefecture-Miyoshi-Nouka_Minshuku_Bokenouen/142570/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

10. Shikoku Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage has played an important role in Japanese religious practice since at least the Heian period (794-1185). Pilgrimage provides a chance to reflect on one’s life in order to change for the better. Motivation for embarking on the Shikoku pilgrimage vary. Some do so for religious reasons, to heal oneself, for safety and protection, or to remember those who have passed away. Some even just want to get away from hectic daily life, some do so for recreation, or simply to spend some time alone to reflect and find oneself. In today’s society, this pilgrimage is being re-discovered and re-defined and a journey of healing.

The Shikoku pilgrimage route is one of the world’s few circular-shaped pilgrimages that consists of 88 ‘official’ temples and other sacred sites where the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi is believed to have spent time or trained at during the 9^th century. The entire route is about 1,200 kilometres and is considered a revered religious journey. Once you have taken your first step, you need not worry too much. As you continue travelling, you slowly begin to reflect on your life and receive truly positive results from this endeavor. Locals along the route are always delighted to extend their hospitality to you, should you make the decision to embark on this pilgrimage.

Collectively, the 88 temples are known as Shikoku Hachijuhakkasho (四国八十八箇所) or simply the Hachijuhakkasho (八十八箇所).

Image	Temple	Honzon (main image)	Location
	Ryozen-ji (霊山寺)	Shaka Nyorai	Naruto, Tokushima
	Gokuraku-ji (極楽寺)	Amida Nyorai	Naruto, Tokushima
	Konsen-ji (金泉寺)	Shaka Nyorai	Itano, Tokushima
	Dainichi-ji (大日寺)	Dainichi Nyorai	Itano, Tokushima
	Jizo-ji (地蔵寺)	Enmei Jizo Bosatsu	Itano, Tokushima
	Anraku-ji (安楽寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Kamiita, Tokushima
	Juraku-ji (十楽寺)	Amida Nyorai	Awa, Tokushima
	Kumadani-ji (熊谷寺)	Senju Kannon	Awa, Tokushima
	Horin-ji (法輪寺)	Shaka Nyorai	Awa, Tokushima
	Kirihata-ji (切幡寺)	Senju Kannon	Awa, Tokushima
	Fujii-dera (藤井寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Yoshinogawa, Tokushima
	Shosan-ji (焼山寺)	Kokuzo Bosatsu	Kamiyama, Tokushima
	Dainichi-ji (大日寺)	Juichimen Kannon	Tokushima, Tokushima
	Joraku-ji (常楽寺)	Miroku Bosatsu	Tokushima, Tokushima
	Awa Kokubun-ji (阿波国分寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Tokushima, Tokushima
	Kannon-ji (観音寺)	Senju Kannon	Tokushima, Tokushima
	Ido-ji (井戸寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Tokushima, Tokushima
	Onzan-ji (恩山寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Komatsushima, Tokushima
	Tatsue-ji (立江寺)	Jizo Bosatsu	Komatsushima, Tokushima
	Kakurin-ji (鶴林寺)	Jizo Bosatsu	Katsuura, Tokushima
	Tairyuji (太龍寺）	Kokuzo Bosatsu	Anan, Tokushima
	Byodo-ji (Tokushima) (平等寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Anan, Tokushima
	Yakuo-ji (薬王寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Minami, Tokushima
	Hotsumisaki-ji (最御崎寺)	Kokuzo Bosatsu	Muroto, Kochi
	Shinsho-ji (津照寺)	Jizo Bosatsu	Muroto, Kochi
	Kongocho-ji (金剛頂寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Muroto, Kōchi
	Konomine-ji (神峰寺)	Juichimen Kannon	Yasuda, Kochi
	Dainichi-ji (大日寺)	Dainichi Nyorai	Konan, Kochi
	Tosa Kokubun-ji (土佐国分寺)	Senju Kannon	Nankoku, Kochi
	Zenrakuji (善楽寺)	Amida Nyorai	Kochi, Kochi
	Chikurin-ji (竹林寺)	Monju Bosatsu	Kochi, Kochi
	Zenjibu-ji (禅師峰寺)	Juichimen Kannon	Nankoku, Kochi
	Sekkei-ji (雪蹊寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Kochi, Kochi
	Tanema-ji (種間寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Haruno, Kochi
	Kiyotaki-ji (清滝寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Tosa, Kochi
	Shoryu-ji (青竜寺)	Fudo Myoo	Tosa, Kochi
	Iwamoto-ji (岩本寺)	Five Buddhas	Shimanto, Kochi
	Kongofuku-ji (金剛福寺)	Senju Kannon	Tosashimizu, Kochi
	Enko-ji (延光寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Sukumo, Kochi
	Kanjizai-ji (観自在寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Ainan, Ehime
	Ryukoji (竜光寺)	Juichimen Kannon	Uwajima, Ehime
	Butsumoku-ji (佛木寺)	Dainichi Nyorai	Uwajima, Ehime
	Meiseki-ji (明石寺)	Senju Kannon	Seiyo, Ehime
	Daiho-ji (大宝寺)	Juichimen Kannon	Kumakogen, Ehime
	Iwaya-ji (ja) (岩屋寺)	Fudo Myoo	Kumakogen, Ehime
	Joruri-ji (浄瑠璃寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Matsuyama, Ehime
	Yasaka-ji (八坂寺)	Amida Nyorai	Matsuyama, Ehime
	Sairin-ji (西林寺)	Juichimen Kannon	Matsuyama, Ehime
	Jodo-ji (浄土寺)	Shaka Nyorai	Matsuyama, Ehime
	Hanta-ji (繁多寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Matsuyama, Ehime
	Ishite-ji (石手寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Matsuyama, Ehime
	Taisan-ji (太山寺)	Juichimen Kannon	Matsuyama, Ehime
	Enmyo-ji (圓明寺)	Amida Nyorai	Matsuyama, Ehime
	Enmei-ji (延命寺)	Fudō Myoo	Imabari, Ehime
	Nankobo (南光坊)	Daitsu-chisho Butsu	Imabari, Ehime
	Taisan-ji (泰山寺)	Jizo Bosatsu	Imabari, Ehime
	Eifuku-ji (栄福寺)	Amida Nyorai	Imabari, Ehime
	Senyu-ji (仙遊寺)	Senju Kannon	Imabari, Ehime
	Iyo Kokubun-ji (伊予国分寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Imabari, Ehime
	Yokomine-ji (横峰寺)	Dainichi Nyorai	Saijo, Ehime
	Koon-ji (香園寺)	Dainichi Nyorai	Saijo, Ehime
	Hoju-ji (宝寿寺)	Juichimen Kannon	Saijo, Ehime
	Kichijo-ji (吉祥寺)	Bishamonten	Saijo, Ehime
	Maegami-ji (前神寺)	Amida Nyorai	Saijo, Ehime
	Sankaku-ji (三角寺)	Juichimen Kannon	Shikokuchuo, Ehime
	Unpen-ji (雲辺寺)	Senju Kannon	Miyoshi, Tokushima
	Daiko-ji (大興寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Mitoyo, Kagawa
	Jinne-in (神恵院)	Amida Nyorai	Kan’onji, Kagawa
	Kannon-ji (観音寺)	Sho Kannon	Kan’onji, Kagawa
	Motoyama-ji (本山寺)	Bato Kannon	Mitoyo, Kagawa
	Iyadani-ji (弥谷寺)	Senju Kannon	Mitoyo, Kagawa
	Mandara-ji (曼荼羅寺	Dainichi Nyorai	Zentsuji, Kagawa
	Shusshakaji (出釈迦寺)	Shaka Nyorai	Zentsuji, Kagawa
	Koyama-ji (甲山寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Zentsuji, Kagawa
	Zentsu-ji (善通寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Zentsuji, Kagawa
	Konzo-ji (金倉寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Zentsuji, Kagawa
	Doryu-ji (道隆寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Tadotsu, Kagawa
	Gosho-ji (郷照寺)	Amida Nyorai	Utazu, Kagawa
	Tenno-ji (天皇寺)	Juichimen Kannon	Sakaide, Kagawa
	Sanuki Kokubun-ji (讃岐国分寺)	Juichimen & Senju Kannon	Takamatsu, Kagawa
	Shiromine-ji (白峯寺)	Senju Kannon	Sakaide, Kagawa
	Negoro-ji (根香寺)	Senju Kannon	Takamatsu, Kagawa
	Ichinomiya-ji (一宮寺)	Sho Kannon	Takamatsu, Kagawa
	Yashima-ji (屋島寺)	Juichimen & Senju Kannon	Takamatsu, Kagawa
	Yakuri-ji (八栗寺)	Sho Kannon	Takamatsu, Kagawa
	Shido-ji (志度寺)	Juichimen Kannon	Sanuki, Kagawa
	Nagao-ji (長尾寺)	Sho Kannon	Sanuki, Kagawa
	Okubo-ji (大窪寺)	Yakushi Nyorai	Sanuki, Kagawa

For more information: http://wwwtb.mlit.go.jp/shikoku/88navi/en/

Kochi

Kochi (高知) is a small and friendly city that has a casual atmosphere with a dose of southern flair, every ready to offer you a wondrous visit. This prefecture is well-known for its unique natural beauty, including one of the top three caves in Japan, and a mountain temple with a botanical garden, sure to take your breath away. In addition, it is also where the Anpanman Museum is located which is always popular with the kids. There are always many places to enjoy and activities to keep you occupied while exploring Kochi.

11. Ryugado Cave

Ryugado Cave (龍河洞) is considered to be one of the top three caves in Japan, and is an absolute must see when visiting Kochi. This massive limestone cave, over 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) wide, took approximately 175 million years to form. It is one of Japan’s best-known limestone caves and is designated by the government as a natural monument/historical site. The section of the cave open to public spans about 1 kilometre (0.62 miles).

At the entrance you will see examples of ancient pottery, stuck in the walls, dating back to the Yayoi Period (300 BCE-300 CE). In particular, the earthenware from the Yayoi period which covered by calcareous sinter, are known as “divine pots” because they are extremely rare and precious. It is recommended that you take the “Adventure” route during your visit and challenge yourself to crawl along the cave floor, relying solely on a headlight, while enjoying the spectacular scenery to make the visit more exhilarating. Before you leave, don’t forget to drop by the Chincho (rare birds) centre that is adjacent to the cave, where the long-tailed cocks, declared a special natural treasure by the government, are kept.

Address: 1424 Sakakawa, Tosayamada-cho, Kami City, Kochi
Phone: +81-887-53-2144 (Ryuga Cave Preservation Association)
Operating Hours:
8:30am-5pm March 1-November 30
8:30am-4:30pm December 1-end of February
Website: http://www.ryugadou.or.jp/en/hozon.html

How to get there

Get off at JR Tosa-Yamada Station on Shikoku Railway and change to a Ryugado-bound bus operated by Tosaden Kotsu for a 20-minute ride. The cave is about a 15-minute drive away from Noichi Station on Tosa Kuroshio Railway, Kochi Ryoma Airport, and the Nankoku Interchange on Kochi Expressway.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Kochi Kuroshio Hotel
   Address: 1630 Higashino, Noichi-cho, Konan-shi, Kochi
   Phone: +81-887-56-5800
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Otoyo-Kochi_Kuroshio_Hotel/15239/
2. Yumeno Onsen
   Address: 364 Miyanokuchi, Tosayamada-cho, Kami-shi, Kochi
   Phone: +81-887-52-2334
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Otoyo-Monobegawa_no_Hotori_no_Onsen_Yado_Yume_no_Onsen/13467/
3. Southern City Hotel
   Address: 933 Myoken, Nankoku-shi, Kochi
   Phone: +81-88-863-2000
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Nankoku-Southern_City_Hotel/1807/

12. Chikurin-ji, Godaisan

Godaisan (五台山) is one of the most famous mountains in Shikoku, located to the east of Kochi City. The mountain is known for its temples and schools built on its slopes. The Emperor Shomu invited Gyoki (聖武天皇, 701-756), a Chinese Buddhist monk, to come to the mountain. Here, he established the Chikurin-ji (竹林寺), who modelled the mountain temple on temples on Mt. Wutai in China. Since then, the temple has been affectionately known for centuries as the abode of Monju-sama (the Buddha Manjushri who represents wisdom). It is because of this that the temple is known as a temple of learning.

The temple has one of the three most important Monju-sama (Manjushri) statues in Japan, and welcomes visitors. It is the 31st temple along the 88-temple Shikoku Henro pilgrimage route. Other must-see sights include a beautiful five-storey pagoda, a sanctuary, a nationally designated garden of scenic beauty, and 17 Buddhist statues recognised as National Important Cultural Properties. The Monju-do in the temple’s main hall has also been designated an Important Cultural Property.

Unique features of the temple include a garden believed to have been designed by the well-known Rinzai Zen Buddhist Muso Soseki (夢窓疎石, 1275-1351), who was a teacher, monk, poet, and calligrapher, and serves as a reminder of the temple’s long and beautiful history. There is also a spacious botanical garden near the temple that contains beautiful walking paths and plant life.

Address: 3577 Godai-san, Kochi-shi, Kochi
Operating Hours: 9am-5pm, last admission at 4:30pm
Closing Days: December 26-January 1
Admission:
Free in the temple precincts
Garden and Houmotsu-kan (Treasury Hall): 420 yen
Website: http://www.chikurinji.com/

How to get there

Hop on the bus at the Harimayabashi Station for a 25-minute ride to Chikurin-ji stop. The temple is 3 minutes walk away. Alternatively, you may like to take a 25-minute walk from Kochi station.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Joseikan
   Address: 2-5-34, Kami-Machi, Kochi City, Kochi
   Phone: +81-88-875-0111
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Kochi-Joseikan/8075/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Kochi Pacific Hotel
   Address: 1-15, Ekimaecho, Kochi-Shi, Kochi
   Phone: +81-88-884-0777
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Kochi-Kochi_Pacific_Hotel/8584/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Richmond Hotel Kochi
   Address: 1-9-4, Obiyamachi, Kochi City, Kochi
   Phone: +81-88-820-1122
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Kochi-Richmond_Hotel_Kochi/67907/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

13. Anpanman Museum

Anpanman is one of Japan’s most beloved children’s characters and was born right here in Kochi. Anpanman was created by Takashi Yanase as a most unlikely hero from an outsider’s perspective since he is made of bread! And guess what? He is even filled with tasty sweet bean paste. This delicious hero fights the evil Baikin-man (Bacteria Man) and saves unfortunate souls from hunger by offering a piece of his head to them. To restore his head, all he needs to do is to fly back home for Uncle Jam to bake him a new one.

Takashi Yanase was born in Kochi, making it the perfect place for an Anpanman museum, built here for children of all ages. The museum is open for all, but it would probably be more fun if you go with children.

Address: Anpan-man, Kasumi city, Kochi
Phone: +81-887-59-2300
Operating Hours:
9:30am-5pm, last admission 4:30pm
9am-5pm July 20-August 31
Admission:
Adults 700 yen
Children above 12 500 yen
Children above 3 300 yen
Website: http://www.pref.kochi.lg.jp/english/museums-anpan.html

How to get there

Take the Japan Railway train from Kochi Station to Tosa-Yamada and then transfer to a bus for Odochi. Get off at Anpanman Myujiamu Mae. This journey is about 25 minutes.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Befukyo Onsen
   Address: 452-8, Monobecho Befu, Kami-shi, Kochi
   Phone: +81-887-58-4181
   Website: http://www.travelko.com/locale/en_US/hotel/259636/
2. Iyashi no Yuyado Ryuga Onsen
   Address: 430-1, Tosayamadacho Sakoyabu, Kami-shi, Kochi
   Phone: +81-887-53-4126
   Website: http://www.travelko.com/locale/en_US/hotel/259729/
3. Resort Hotel Umibe-no-Kajuen
   Address: 506-1 Teiyama, Yasu-cho, Kami-gun, Kochi
   Phone: +81-887-55-4111
   Website: http://www.travelko.com/locale/en_US/hotel/262255/

14. Yosakoi Matsuri

The annual 4-day Yosakoi Matsuri (よさこい祭り) takes place from August 9 -12. It originally began in Tosa Kochi Prefecture, in rivalry with the popular Awa Odori festival mentioned above. A local folk song from Tosa states: “Tosa no Kochi no Harimaya-bashi de, bo-san kanzashi kau wo mita. Yosakoi, Yosakoi.” Meaning: “At the Harimaya Bridge in Tosa in Kochi, I saw a monk buying a hair ornament. Yosakoi, Yosakoi.” In ancient Japan, Buddhist monks were not allowed to have relationships with women and this song is about a monk buying a hair accessory for his girlfriend. “Yosakoi” means “come at night”. This song was very popular in Kochi, and was one of the songs that spawned the Yosakoi Matsuri in Kochi in the early 1950s. Its colourful and lively dance craze spread all over Japan and include festivals such as the Harajuku Omotesando Genki Matsuri Super Yosakoi in Harajuki, the Yosakoi Soran Festival in Sapporo, and events in Saitama and Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture.

The festival is held in the Kochi city’s commercial district with around 80 dance groups from all over Japan taking part. The dancers dress in colourful costumes including traditional kimono and also modern clothing. They play wooden clappers called naruko as they dance through the streets during the festival.

The festival is a lively one, with many young participants, who bring creativity to the festival, through designing their own costumes, and choreographic their dance routines to modern forms of music, like hip-hop, rock, samba, and enka (Japanese ballad).

Address: Kochi City, Kochi
Phone: +88-875-1178
Website: http://www.yosakoi.com/en/

How to get there

The festival is approximately 30 minutes drive away by car from Kochi Ryoma Airport. It is a 15-minute walk from Kochi Station and a 1-minute walk from the Sakai-machi bus stop on the Tosaden Bus route. It is approximately 10 minutes by car from the Kochi Interchange.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Tourist Inn Kochi
   Address: 1-5-5, Okawasuji, Kochi-Shi, Kochi
   Phone: +81-88-820-5151
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Kochi-Tourist_Inn_Kochi/40847/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Bright Park Hotel
   Address: 1-5-13, Otesuji, Kochi-Shi, Kochi
   Phone: +81-88-823-4351
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Kochi-Bright_Park_Hotel/5660/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. The Crownpalais New Hankyu Kochi
   Address: 4-2-50, Hommachi, Kochi-Shi, Kochi
   Phone: +81-88-873-1111
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Kochi-The_Crownpalais_New_Hankyu_Kochi/1436/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

15. Kochi Castle

Kochi Castle (高知城) is located in the heart of Kochi town centre and is one of the well-preserved castles that survived war, fire, and other disasters of the post feudal age. The castle was originally constructed between 1601 and 1611, but most of its main buildings date back to 1748, after they were reconstructed following a fire.

The castle used to be occupied by the Yamauchi lords during the Edo Period, who ruled the surrounding region then known as Tosa. It is now part of Japan’s Important Cultural Properties, and houses many local treasures and historical objects.

The unique feature of Kochi’s castle is that its main tower (donjon) was used used for military purposes as well as a residence. Historically, most lords resided in a separate building rather than in the castle keep itself such as Kochi’s castle. The wooden interior of the castle still maintains the look of its Edo Period origins, and the lookout point from the castle’s top floor offers spectacular views of the downtown.

If you visit from the end of March, you can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms on the grounds, or the red-coloured leaves which make the landscape majestic in autumn.

Address: 1-2-1 Marunouchi Kochi-city, Kochi
Phone: +81-88-824-5701
Operating Hours: 9am-5pm, last admission at 4:30pm
Closing Days: December 26 to January 1
Admission: 420 yen
Website: http://kochipark.jp/kochijyo/ (Japanese only)

How to get there

10-minute ride by bus or 25 minutes walk from Kochi station

Accommodation Nearby

1. Sansuien
   Address: 1-3-35, Takajomachi, Kochi-Shi, Kochi
   Phone: +81-88-822-0131
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Kochi-Sansuien/17777/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Welcome Hotel Kochi
   Address: 1-8-25, Otesuji, Kochi City, Kochi
   Phone: +81-88-823-3555
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Kochi-Welcome_Hotel_Kochi/111254/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Hotel Abest Kochi
   Address: 1-7-14, Minamiharimaya, Kochi
   Phone: +81-120-825-077
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Kochi_Prefecture-Kochi-Hotel_Abest_Kochi/1553/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

Ehime

Ehime prefecture (愛媛県, Ehime-ken) is the largest prefecture in Shikoku due to its population. The prefecture has become fairly popular with tourists due to the prefecture’s historical Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen, and is one of the most visited regions on the island.

Matsuyama (松山) is the capital of Ehime Prefecture and the largest city on Shikoku Island. At the heart of the city stands the beautiful Matsuyamajo castle with a hilltop vantage point that offers beautiful views of the city and a glimpse of the Seto Inland Sea.

The city is also famous for being the setting of Natsume Soseki’s popular novel, “Botchan” that is often read as part of the curriculum in Japanese schools. The novel describes Matsuyama during the turbulent Meiji Restoration and has brought much fame to the city throughout Japan.

Dogo Onsen is also mentioned frequently in “Botchan”. It is one of Matsuyama’s main tourist attractions and Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts located on the north-eastern outskirts of the city.

16. Onsen Dogo Honkan

The famous Dogo Onsen (道後温泉) is found in Ehime’s Matsuyama and is believed to be one of the oldest onsens in Japan. The Dogo Onsen Honkan (道後温泉本館) was built in 1894 during the Meiji Period and is the icon of the Dogo Onsen. The charismatic Honkan is said to be the inspiration behind the award-winning animated film “Spirited Away” produced by Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli.

The honkan offers old-fashioned public baths made of stone, separated by gender. There are two bath areas in the honkan. One on the first floor is the main bath, known as the Kami no Yu (Bath of the Gods), while the one on the second floor is small but more distinguished and known as Tama no Yu (Bath of the Spirits). The second floor also boasts large communal tatami rooms, while smaller private rooms are provided on the third floor, allowing customers space to rest and enjoy light refreshments. There are four different types of admission prices for customers to choose from with different levels of access to the honkan’s facilities.

There is a special section of the honkan called the Yushinden, constructed and set aside for the Imperial Family’s visit in 1899. Tourists can now visit the Yushinden while on a paid guided tour of the facilities reserved for visiting emperors, including a lavishly decorated room with a coffered ceiling, and a bathroom exclusively for the use of the emperor. Since 1952, however, it has never been used by an emperor.

Address: 5-6 Dogoyuno-machi Matsuyama-city, Ehime
Phone: +81-89-921-5141
Operating Hours: 6am-11pm or or 8:40pm depending on the type of admission
Admission:
Access to Kamino-yu bath only: 410 yen
Access to Kamino-yu bath and 2nd floor: 840 yen
Access to Tamano-yu and 2nd floor: 1,250 yen
Access to Tanano-yu and a private room on the 3rd floor: 1,550 yen
Website: http://www.dogo.or.jp/pc/ (Japanese only)

How to get there

The Dogo Onsen Honkan is a 4-minute walk from Dogo Onsen train station. From Japan Railway Matsuyama Station, hop onto the 20-minute ride on tram line 5 train. Take the 15-minute tram line 3 train from Matsuyama-shi Station.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Dogo Onsen Funaya
   Address: 1-33, Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama-Shi, Ehime
   Phone: +81-89-947-0278
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Matsuyama-Dogo_Onsen_Funaya/11332/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Dogo Onsen Chaharu
   Address: 4-4, Yuzuki-Cho, Dogo, Matsuyama City, Ehime
   Phone: +81-89-945-1321
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Matsuyama-Dogo_Onsen_Chaharu/17668/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Dogo Onsen Hanayuduki
   Address: 4-16, Dogoyuzukicho, Matsuyama-Shi, Ehime
   Phone: +81-89-943-3333
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Matsuyama-Dogo_Onsen_Hanayuduki/16719/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

17. Matsuyama Castle

The Matsuyama Castle (松山城) is located in Matsuyama City and is a five-storey castle built in 1603. Although it is one of Japan’s twelve “original castles” that survived the Meiji Restoration, some sections of it were unfortunately destroyed during World War II. These sections are main finished, but sections are still under renovation. Nevertheless, is one of the most beautiful attractions on the island. Located on top of Mount Katsuyama’s fairly steep hill, it is a strategic location from which to view Matsuyama and the Seto Inland Sea. The castle also offers a spectacular view of the city from the top of its mountain perch.

About 200 sakura trees were planted on the castle grounds, thus making it a lovely sakura blossom site around late March to early April every year. The Matsuyama Castle was first constructed between 1602 and 1628 and was assigned to a branch of the Matsudaira family who were relatives to the Edo family who ruled the country. The castle remained in their hands until the end of the feudal era. The current three-storey building was constructed in 1820, as the original five-storey building was destroyed by lightning.

Address: 1 Marunouchi Matsuyama-city, Ehime
Phone: +81-89-921-4873
Operating Hours:
9am-5pm
9am-5:30pm in August
9am-4:30pm in December and January
Last admission 30 minutes before closing
Admission: 510 yen
Website: http://www.matsuyamajo.jp/ (Japanese only)

How to get there

Matsuyama Castle stands on a steep hill in the center of Matsuyama and can be accessed by ropeway or chairlift. The closest tram stop to the ropeway and chairlift station is “Okaido” in front of the covered arcade, from where it is a 5 minute walk to the lower ropeway station. Okaido can be reached by tram line 5 from JR Matsuyama Station (10 minutes) or by tram line 2 or 3 from Matsuyama-shi Station (5 minutes).

Accommodation Nearby

1. Dogo Yaya
   Address: 6-1, Dogotako-Cho, Matsuyama City, Ehime
   Phone: +81-89-907-1181
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Matsuyama-Dogo_Yaya/108156/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Dogo Onsen Dogokan
   Address: 7-26, Dogotako-Cyo, Matsuyama-Shi, Ehime
   Phone: +81-89-941-7777
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Matsuyama-Dogo_Onsen_Dogokan/10788/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Dogo Onsen Dogo Prince Hotel
   Address: 100, Dogohimezuka, Matsuyama-Shi, Ehime
   Phone: +81-89-947-5111
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Matsuyama-Dogo_Onsen_Dogo_Prince_Hotel/8384/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

18. Uwajima

Uwajima (宇和島) is a little coastal city located in southern Ehime Prefecture. It boasts some of the most peculiar sites in Japan, and is home to one of the twelve extant castles from the Edo Period (1603-1867), namely the Uwajima Castle (宇和島城). In addition, its Date Museum showcases Uwajima’s history, as well as that of the Date clan, who ruled the region for about two and half centuries.

Being a coastal city, Uwajima is an active city with sea related industries such as pearl cultivation and fishing. In fact, Uwajima is one of the top pearl producers in Japan. If you want to catch its spectacular coastal scenery, make sure to visit the waterfront around the city while enjoying some of the local specialties such as Jakoten (fish cake) and Taimeshi (a dish of rice and sea bream).

How to get there

By train from Matsuyama
Uwajima is approximately 80 minutes away from Matsuyama by limited express trains or 3 hours by local trains on the JR Yosan Line. The trip is fully covered by the Japan Railway Pass and the All Shikoku Railway Pass.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Uwajima Oriental Hotel
   Address: 6-10, Tsurushima-Cho, Uwajima, Ehime
   Phone: +81-895-23-2828
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Uwajima-Uwajima_Oriental_Hotel/2352/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Hotel Clement Uwajima
   Address: 10-1, Nishiki-Cho, Uwajima, Ehime
   Phone: +81-895-23-6111
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Uwajima-Hotel_Clement_Uwajima/789/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Uwajima Terminal Hotel
   Address: 3-22, Tenjimmachi, Uwajima-Shi, Ehime
   Phone: +81-895-22-2280
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Uwajima-Uwajima_Terminal_Hotel/9647/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

19. Uchiko

Located about 40 km southwest of Matsuyama, Uchiko (内子) is a pleasant town, a vestige of a more rural and traditional Japan. It was once a prosperous centre concerned with paper and wax production. A preserved street of houses known as Yokaichi Old Town is where most of Uchiko’s attractions can be found. Interestingly, this street looks exactly as it did over 100 years ago, when the wealthy and prosperous were attracted to the town by the booming wax trade. Another worthwhile attraction in Uchiko is to be found just outside of its old district. Known as the Uchiko-za, it’s a full scale kabuki theatre, equipped with a rotating stage, hidden entrances, and trap doors.

How to get there

By train
The limited express train takes 25-minutes from Uchiko and Matsuyama. The local train takes about one hour.

By bus
The Iyotetsu buses from Matsuyama-shi Station to Misaki and Yawatahama Ports do stop in Uchiko along the way. The journey is approximately one hour.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Auberge Uchiko
   Address: 485-2, Otsu, Ikazaki, Uchiko-Cho, Kita-Gun, Ehime
   Phone: +81-893-44-6565
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Uchiko-Auberge_Uchiko/142923/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Matsunoya
   Address: 1913, Uchiko, Uchiko-Cho Kita-Gun, Ehime
   Phone: +81-893-44-5000
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Uchiko-Matsunoya/31123/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Log Tateyama
   Address: 3925, Tachiyama, Uchiko-Cho Kita-Gun, Ehime
   Phone: +81-893-45-0222
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Uchiko-Log_Tateyama/67276/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

20. Tenshaen Garden

The Tenshaen Garden (天赦園) is a lovely mid-sized Japanese garden located to the southwest of Uwajima Castle. It was built in 1866 as a recreational venue by the Date Clan who were the ruling lords at the time. The garden was designed in a way that the scenery changes according to the four seasons, and it was a favoured spot by the ruling lord to practice his calligraphy. The lord’s artistic-looking calligraphy room, Harusametei, still stands at the center of the garden today.

In front of the Harusametei is a pond in the shape of the kanji “kokoro” that means “heart”. The Harusametei is adorned with strategically placed rocks, pine trees, and stone lanterns that enhance the scenery. Wisteria flowers usually blossom around mid-April, and the garden includes an arch bridge fully lined with white wisteria flowers that spans over the pond.

The Bamboo groves are another feature of Tenshaen with around 20 varieties of bamboo trees that provide a subtle charm to the garden all year round.

Address: 1 Tenshakoen, Uwajima, Ehime
Operating Hours:
8:30am-4:30pm
8:30am-5pm from April to June
Closing Days:
Mondays from early December to end February (following day if Monday is a national holiday), December 28-31
Admission: 300 yen

How to get there

The Tenshaen Garden is located next to the Date Museum. It is a 20-30 minute walk from Uwajima Station. Alternatively, Uwajima bus operates hourly between the station and Tenshaen-mae bus stop that is just a few steps away from the garden.

Accommodation Nearby

1. Uwajima Oriental Hotel
   Address: 6-10, Tsurushima-Cho, Uwajima, Ehime
   Phone: +81-895-23-2828
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Uwajima-Uwajima_Oriental_Hotel/2352/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
2. Uwajima Terminal Hotel
   Address: 3-22, Tenjimmachi, Uwajima-Shi, Ehime
   Phone: +81-895-22-2280
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Uwajima-Uwajima_Terminal_Hotel/9647/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1
3. Hotel Clement Uwajima
   Address: 10-1, Nishiki-Cho, Uwajima, Ehime
   Phone: +81-895-23-6111
   Website: https://travel.rakuten.com/hotel/Japan-Ehime_Prefecture-Uwajima-Hotel_Clement_Uwajima/789/?adults=2&limit=20&offset=0&rooms=1

Travel Books

Before you go to Japan we highly recommend you read A Geek in Japan: Discovering the Land of Manga, Anime, Zen, and the Tea Ceremony for a better understanding of modern Japanese culture and lifestyle.

Authors: Hector Garcia

Comprehensive and well informed, it covers a wide array of topics in short articles accompanied by sidebars and numerous photographs, providing a lively digest of the society and culture of Japan. Designed to appeal to the generations of Westerners who grew up on Pokemon, manga and video games, A Geek in Japan reinvents the culture guide for readers in the Internet age.

Spotlighting the originality and creativity of the Japanese, debunking myths about them, and answering nagging questions like why they’re so fond of robots, author Hector Garcia has created the perfect book for the growing ranks of Japanophiles in this inspired, insightful and highly informative guide.

How to move around Japan

The best way to get around Japan is by using a JR Rail Pass, a very convenient and budget-friendly way to travel throughout the country. For train route ideas and city guides, check out the Japan by Rail book.

Authors: Ramsey Zarifeh

Practical information – planning your trip; what to take; getting to Japan from Europe, North America and Australasia

City guides and maps – where to stay (all budgets), where to eat, what to see in 30 towns and cities; historical and cultural background

Kilometer-by-kilometer route guides – covering train journeys from the coast into the mountains, from temple retreat to sprawling metropolis and from sulphurous volcano to windswept desert; 34 route maps

Railway timetables – Bullet trains and all routes in this guidebook

Plus – Customs, etiquette, Japanese phrases and 40 color photos

Sources:

• https://www.jnto.go.jp
• http://www.japanvisitor.com
• http://www.japan-guide.com
• http://www.tourismshikoku.org
• https://www.tripadvisor.com.my/Attractions-g298228-Activities-c47-t17-Shikoku.html
• http://iyokannet.jp/english/index.htm
• http://www.my-kagawa.jp/en/
• https://discovertokushima.net/en/
• http://visitkochijapan.com
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shikoku_Pilgrimage
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shikoku#cite_note-tourism-2
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shikoku_dialect

For more interesting information:

• Wonderful Japan – Kyushu
• Wonderful Japan – Kyoto and Nara
• Wonderful Japan – Honshu
• DAIBUTSU – The Great Buddha of Kamakura
• Rudyard Kipling’s Poem of Kamakura Buddha
• Techno-Buddhism in Japan!
• Rapping Monk of Japan!
• 10 Japanese Folklore Creatures
• Animals and Humans: Working together in Japan
• Japanese Admits UFO Exists!!
• Why Drinking With Coworkers Is So Important In Japanese Work Culture

Please support us so that we can continue to bring you more Dharma:

If you are in the United States, please note that your offerings and contributions are tax deductible. ~ the tsemrinpoche.com blog team