The smallest and least populated of Japan’s four main islands, Shikoku is renowned for its 88-temple Buddhist pilgrimage route, Matsuyama Castle, a fortress castle that is one of the few surviving original castles in Japan, Dogo Onsen and its pristine nature.
Be enthralled by the island’s nature offerings like the scenic Oboke Gorge where you can cruise down the blue Yoshino River that’s flanked by rocky walls on the sides, the alienesque Shikoku Karst with eroded limestone dotting the hill and plateau, or the Pacific-facing Katsurahama Beach with the statue and enthralling tales of Sakamoto Ryoma.
The adventurous can consider heading to the Oku-Iya Niju Kazurabashi for its unusual vine bridges and a fun bridge where you can pull yourself across in a wooden cart. Camp there with family and friends for a truly memorable holiday.
Destinations in Shikoku
Tokushima
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Miyoshi
Nature right at its doorstep -
Naruto
Starting the Shikoku Pilgrimage and visiting whirlpools -
Tokushima City
City of mountains and Awa Odori
Kagawa
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Naoshima Island
An artistic escape -
Shodoshima Island
One day on the olive island -
Takamatsu
Coastal city in northern Shikoku
Ehime
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Hojo
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Imabari
Shipbuilding town -
Iyo
A very rural 'city' by the sea -
Kuma Kogen Highland
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Matsuno
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Matsuyama
The capital city of Ehime Prefecture -
Niihama
Home of the famous Taiko Festival -
Ozu
Ehime’s Little Kyoto -
Saijo
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Seiyo
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Tobe
Hands-on pottery town -
Toon City
Steep, forested valleys east of Matsuyama city -
Uchiko
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Uwajima
The city centered around Uwajima castle -
Yawatahama
Has the largest fish market on Shikoku