9 Best Things to Do in Shikoku

There are plenty of reasons why Japan should be at the top of your travel list. One: it’s bursting with cool temples; two: your tummy will always be full of incredible food; three: it’s so easy to get around! 

With Japan’s efficient transport system, you can travel the farthest corners of Tokyo to the southwest island of Shikoku in a snap! Thanks to the All Shikoku Rail Pass you can enjoy unlimited train travels around the region. Simply choose between our 3-day, 4-day, 5-day, and 7-day pass, and get wandering!

Now’s the perfect chance to discover Japan outside Tokyo and Osaka! Expand your Japan travels to the beautiful island of Shikoku in Honshu. This underrated destination has everything you can dream of: massive mountains, clear streams, gorgeous cherry blossom-clad sceneries, and amazing udon bowls. 

If it’s your first time visiting, start with these 9 best things to do in Shikoku:

Get spirited away to the most mystical place in Shikoku! Hachigo-kiri Unkai, which means “sea of clouds,” creates a surreal view as the early morning fog from the Yoshina River rises up to the sky. You can see this breathtaking scenery from the Asahi Outlook—and like the Ghibli classic Spirited Away, it’ll transport you into a different world!

Bridges? No need for ‘em! When you’re exploring the Iya Valley, zip lines are the way to go! If you’re out for thrills, the most exciting thing to do in Shikoku is grabbing a harness and zooming past nature. You'll get to try out different obstacle courses at the Forest Adventure Iya Valley near the Kazurabashi Vine Bridge. From hanging tree tops to zip lines over rivers and gorges, the whole fam is sure to have a blast! 

What is Shikoku known for? Its impressive mountain ranges, of course, like Mount Tsurugi. At 1,955 feet high, it stands as the second tallest mountain in western Japan and is easily the most trekkable one too! Climbing to the top of its summit is not as difficult as you’d imagine. Thanks to the climber’s lift, it’ll only take you roughly half an hour or less to reach the mountain top. From high up, you’ll be able to spot the Pacific Ocean, the Seto Inland Sea, and even as far as Okaya in Nagano.

Wondering what to do in Shikoku as a history buff? Great news: Tokushima is filled to the brim with history and culture! The quaint neighborhood of Udatsu Street features gorgeous rows of traditional Japanese homes dating back to the Edo (1603-1867) period. Stroll through the streets, and you’ll find beautifully decorated houses with family crests, detailed woodwork, and protective demons on rooftops. On this scenic strip, you’ll also discover many of Japan’s best indigo-crafting workshops, where you can immerse yourself in the thousand-year-old art.

Tea lovers, rejoice! The picturesque floras of Ritsurin Garden boast enchanting sceneries straight out of a fairytale book. Ritsurin Garden is famous for its timeless beauty as 1,000 plants bloom all year round. And the best part is: you can soak in the sight while relaxing with a steaming cup of green tea at the Kikugetsutei Traditional Tea House. Starting at JPY3,000, you can indulge in Japanese treats, warm miso soup, and refreshing ocha (tea). Now that’s one of the best things to do in Shikoku for tea lovers!

Being nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Seto Inland Sea, you can expect that this island abounds with diverse marine life—many of which can be found in the Shikoku Aquarium. Come face-to-face with sea jellies, penguins, sharks, and schools of fish that inhabit the Naruto Strait. The aquarium also has a light exhibit featuring the legend of Ryugu Shrine and a dolphin show to keep the little ones entertained.

There are plenty of things to do in Shikoku if you’re a foodie. The Kagawa prefecture isn’t only blessed with nature but also mouthwatering cuisines, especially udon! At the Nakano Udon School, you’ll roll, knead, cut, and stomp your way to make the special dish. After which, you’ll taste your own creation, making for an unforgettable experience to cherish!

An island brimming with modern art? You betcha Shikoku has it, specifically Naoshima Island! On this little art island, you’ll discover mind-boggling artworks from world-famous and up-and-coming Japanese artists. Upon alighting at Miyanoura Port, you’ll be greeted by Yayoi Kusama’s Red Pumpkin, a fave photo-op spot on the island. It’s here too that you’ll find the Ando Museum, an architectural wonder designed by Tadao Ando himself, and the I Love Yu, a quirk bathhouse made with mosaics and a giant elephant statue inside.

Capping off our list of the best things to do in Shikoku is a visit to the “Last Clear Stream of Japan,” aka the Shimanto River. It’s an unspoiled beauty with its free-flowing river with clear waters. Riding a yakatabune (Japanese roofed boat) will reward you with spectacular sceneries of forested canyons, rolling hills, and endless farmlands that remain unchanged throughout the years.

If you’re a nature lover, an animal lover, a culture vulture, a food enthusiast, or just wanna wander off the beaten path, you’ll have a blast exploring Shikoku! And with the All Shikoku Rail Pass, you’ll have an easy time exploring the island!