The Smallest of Japan's Main Islands, A Hidden Gem of History and Spirituality
Located south of Honshu, Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s five main islands after Okinawa. Historically isolated from the mainland, Shikoku developed unique architectural and religious characteristics. The region is also a top producer of citrus.
Shikoku is most famous for its 88 Temple Pilgrimage, a 1400 kilometer route established by Kukai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. The pilgrimage circles through sweeping valleys, past tranquil streams, and secret rural communities, up to misty mountaintop shrines and self-realization. Although modern pilgrims can travel the route by bus, it’s worth making at least some of the journey on foot to really experience what Shikoku has to offer.
Shikoku is most famous for its 88 Temple Pilgrimage, a 1400 kilometer route established by Kukai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. The pilgrimage circles through sweeping valleys, past tranquil streams, and secret rural communities, up to misty mountaintop shrines and self-realization. Although modern pilgrims can travel the route by bus, it’s worth making at least some of the journey on foot to really experience what Shikoku has to offer.
Iya Valley
A Hidden Hamlet
Here is the perfect place to explore Japan’s local culture, food and nature.
Here is the perfect place to explore Japan’s local culture, food and nature.
Kochi Food
Warm and Lively Culture
Culture of gathering together to celebrate is deeply rooted in everyday life in Kochi.
Culture of gathering together to celebrate is deeply rooted in everyday life in Kochi.
Niyodo River
Amazing "Niyodo Blue"
The Niyodo River is often ranked as Japan’s most beautiful river for its almost surreal cobalt blue color.
The Niyodo River is often ranked as Japan’s most beautiful river for its almost surreal cobalt blue color.
Dogo Onsen
Castle and Onsen Town
Matsuyama is a charmingly hospitable castle town and the largest city on the island of Shikoku.
Matsuyama is a charmingly hospitable castle town and the largest city on the island of Shikoku.
Shiwaku Islands
Wooden Townhouses
Over 100 beautiful old houses built by Shiwaku carpenters line the narrow streets
Over 100 beautiful old houses built by Shiwaku carpenters line the narrow streets
Shodoshima
The Idyllic Island Paradise
The island has a lot to offer visiting tourists, bursting with natural beauty as well as cultural sights.
The island has a lot to offer visiting tourists, bursting with natural beauty as well as cultural sights.
Mt. Ishizuchi
A Sacred Mountain Peak
An important object of worship, one of the major centres of Shugendo.
An important object of worship, one of the major centres of Shugendo.
Explore
Regions of Shikoku
Regions of Shikoku
Ideas
for Your Shikoku Trip
for Your Shikoku Trip
- All
- Ehime
- Kagawa
- Tokushima
- Kochi

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