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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Shikokuchuo sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of Shikoku, the quaint town of Shikokuchuo beckons with its unspoiled natural beauty and cultural richness.
Whether it’s embarking on a winding pilgrimage through ancient temples or unwinding in the embrace of the tranquil countryside, there’s no shortage of exhilarating experiences waiting to be unearthed in Shikokuchuo.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Shikokuchuo:
1. Tokushima Awa Odori Kaikan
The Tokushima Awa Odori Kaikan is a facility dedicated to the Awa Odori festival, one of the largest traditional dance festivals in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can watch performances of the Awa dance, learn about its history and significance, and even try their hand (or feet) at the dance.
Don’t miss: The highlight of a visit to the Tokushima Awa Odori Kaikan is watching a live Awa Odori performance. The facility also has an exhibition space showcasing festival costumes, instruments, and other related items.
Insider travel tips: – Check the performance schedule in advance to make sure you don’t miss the chance to see a live performance.
2. Ritsurin Garden
One of the most famous and beautiful Japanese gardens in Shikoku region, located in the city of Takamatsu.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the garden and admire the stunning scenery which features 6 ponds and 13 landscaped hills, traditional Japanese bridges, tea houses, a museum and a bonsai garden.
Don’t miss: The South Pond which is the largest pond in the garden and reflects the majestic beauty of Mt. Shiun.
Also visit “Engetsu-kyo”, a moon crossing bridge that will leave you in awe of its beautiful design.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the peak of autumn in November when the leaves of the garden turn into gorgeous shades of yellow, orange, and red.
The garden can be really crowded and busy so try to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Don’t forget to taste the hot roasted sweet potato “Yakiimo” sold at the garden, which is a local specialty that you won’t regret trying.
3. Kochi Castle
A historical castle located in Shikokuchuo, Ehime Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle grounds and learn about the history of the castle and the region through the exhibits in the museum.
The castle tower has been restored and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: The cherry blossom festival in the spring and the autumn foliage in the fall offer stunning natural displays around the castle grounds.
Insider travel tips: Take some time to explore the nearby town of Shikokuchuo and try some of the local cuisine such as saba-zushi, a type of sushi made with mackerel.
Keep in mind that the castle tower has steep stairs and may not be accessible for everyone.
4. Iya Valley
Iya Valley is a remote and picturesque mountain valley located in Shikokuchuo, a city in the Tokushima Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a relaxing hike through the lush green valley and past the clear blue Iya River. Stop by the stunning double vine bridges, Kazurabashi, and test your nerves by crossing over the narrow suspension bridge.
Visit the Ochiai village, an ancient and isolated Japanese village that has been preserved for centuries and has a fascinating history.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view of the valley from the Mt.
Tsurugi Observation Deck, which is double the height of Tokyo Tower; The Iya Onsen, a hot spring resort with open-air baths where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Insider travel tips: Plan ahead, as public transportation to Iya Valley can be limited. Driving is the most recommended way to get to the valley.
If you’re driving, be cautious on the narrow roads with hairpin turns. Try the local cuisine, such as soba noodles, which are made from buckwheat and are a speciality in this region.
Stay at a traditional Japanese inn, known as a ryokan, for an authentic cultural experience.
5. Naruto Whirlpools
Natural phenomenon of giant whirlpools formed in the Naruto Strait, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the beauty of the giant whirlpools from the Uzushio Cruise Boat, walking across the Naruto Strait Bridge or visiting the Naruto Whirlpool Park.
Don’t miss: The Uzushio Science Museum which has interactive exhibits to understand the science behind the Naruto Whirlpools.
Insider travel tips: Visit during high tide for a better chance of seeing the whirlpools. Don’t forget to try the famous local dish ‘udon’ noodles.
6. Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route
A 70-kilometer long cycling route that connects six islands between Onomichi on Honshu and Imabari on Shikoku.
What to see or do: Enjoy the scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea while cycling across six spectacular suspension bridges. Stop by quaint fishing villages, hidden beaches, and local eateries along the way.
Don’t miss: Sunrise or sunset at the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge.
Insider travel tips: Rent a bike in Onomichi and drop it off in Imabari. Make sure to bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and snacks as there aren’t many convenience stores along the way.
Plan your trip around one of the annual cycling events held on the route, such as the Shimanami Bike Festival in May or the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido International Cycling Race in October.
7. Konpira-san Shrine
Konpira-san is a significant and well-known Shinto shrine in Shikokuchuo city in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is situated on the slopes of the 521-meter high Mount Zozu and attracts tourists, hikers, and worshipers alike.
What to see or do: The main attraction is the shrine complex consisting of several intricately designed buildings and a long series of stone steps leading to the main hall.
Visitors can get a panoramic view of the city from the top. The complex also includes a theater where visitors can watch a Kabuki performance.
Don’t miss: The stone steps leading up to the main hall are an attraction in themselves as they are lined with souvenir shops and restaurants.
Near the entrance, you will find a big stone torii gate erected in 2013, which welcomes visitors to the mountain trail.
Insider travel tips: – Remember to wear comfortable shoes as the walk up the steps can be tiring.
8. Yashima
Yashima is a mountainous area located in Shikokuchuo city on the island of Shikoku in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking and taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding area. The area is also famous for its historic shrine and castle ruins.
Don’t miss: The Yashima Shrine, which was established over 1,300 years ago and is believed to have strong spiritual power. The castle ruins of Yashima are also a must-see for history buffs.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to bring comfortable hiking shoes and plenty of water for the hike up the mountain. The best time of year to visit is in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Additionally, try the local udon noodles, which are a specialty in the Shikoku region.
9. Zentsu-ji Temple
Zentsu-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Shikokuchuo, on the island of Shikoku in Japan. It is one of the 88 temples that are part of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the grounds of the temple and admire its beautiful architecture. The temple features several buildings, including the main hall, the pagoda, and the treasure hall.
In the main hall, visitors can see a statue of the historical Buddha, while the treasure hall houses a collection of important Buddhist artifacts.
The temple grounds also feature a lovely garden, a pond, and a bamboo grove.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in the traditional Buddhist practice of Osame-fuda.
This involves writing your name and a wish on a piece of paper, which is then affixed to the temple’s main hall.
It is said that this practice will help your wish come true.
Insider travel tips: – Zentsu-ji Temple can get crowded during peak visiting times, so plan to arrive early to avoid long lines.
10. Oboke Gorge
Oboke Gorge is a scenic natural wonder located in Shikokuchuo, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely boat tour down the Yoshino River to appreciate the gorgeous cliffs, crystal-clear waters and lush greenery encompassing the gorge.
Additionally, the Obokekyo Hiking Trail provides an exciting opportunity to explore the rugged landscape on foot and enjoy panoramic views.
Don’t miss: One of the most popular attractions is the Great Kazura Bridge, a wooden suspension bridge originally built by vine craftsmen. There is also the Oboke Koboke Train which chugs through the mountains and offers picturesque views of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in autumn for the stunning colors of the changing leaves.
11. Hiwasa Beach
Hiwasa Beach is a beautiful white sand beach in the town of Shikokuchuo on the island of Shikoku, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors to Hiwasa Beach can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach. There are also several beachside shops and restaurants where visitors can grab a bite to eat or a drink.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the sea turtles that come to lay their eggs on the beach from May to August.
Visitors can take part in guided tours to learn more about the sea turtles and their conservation.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting Hiwasa Beach on a weekday to avoid the crowds. There is also a free parking lot located near the beach.
Bring sunscreen, towels, and beach mats as these items are not available for rent at the beach.
12. Shimanto River
The Shimanto River is a 196-kilometer-long river that runs through the Kochi Prefecture on the island of Shikoku.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a relaxing and scenic boat ride along the river, or go fishing for sweetfish and black bass. The surrounding area is also ideal for hiking and cycling.
Don’t miss: A must-see is the Shimanto River Otsu, a water park where visitors can enjoy various water-based activities like rafting, kayaking, and swimming.
Also, make sure to visit the Shimanto River Cycling Terminal, where you can rent bicycles and explore the area on two wheels.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking for a relaxing experience, take a boat ride during dusk and witness the stunning sunset views along the river.
For those who love adventures, try the Shimanto River Rafting Experience, which takes you through the river’s rapids and is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
13. Yasuda Castle
Yasuda Castle is a historic castle located in Shikokuchuo, the largest city in the southern part of Japan’s Shikoku Island.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the reconstructed castle and its surrounding gardens to learn about its fascinating history.
Inside, there is a museum with exhibits on the castle’s construction, the local feudal lords who lived there, and the battles that took place in the area.
The castle grounds also offer scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the castle’s impressive stone walls and gates, which have been painstakingly restored to their original grandeur.
There is also a beautiful cherry blossom garden on the castle grounds, which is especially stunning in the spring.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, visit the castle on a weekday rather than a weekend.
14. Kotohira-gu Shrine
Kotohira-gu Shrine is a famous Shinto shrine in the town of Kotohira, located in the Kagawa Prefecture of Shikoku island, Japan.
The shrine is dedicated to the god of seafaring, sailors and water.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb the 785 steps of the stone stairway to reach the main shrine, which offers magnificent views of the surrounding landscape.
Along the way, there are many smaller shrines, statues and traditional shops selling souvenirs and local delicacies. The shrine also has a large pond and a beautiful garden with cherry blossoms in the spring.
Don’t miss: The main attraction of the shrine is the Inner Shrine (Okusha) where the deity is enshrined. The Inner Shrine is located at the top of a hill in a beautiful mountain backdrop.
Another highlight is Kanamaruza, a traditional theater built in 1835, located just a few steps from the main gate of the shrine.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning.
15. Katsurahama Beach
Katsurahama Beach is a scenic beach located in the city of Shikokuchuo, on the southern coast of Kochi Prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: The beach is famous for its picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean, with its clear blue water and sandy shore.
Visitors can also take a stroll along the nearby promenade to see the bronze statue of the famed samurai Ryoma Sakamoto and the Ryoma Memorial Museum.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Katsurahama Beach is the large outdoor aquarium complex, where you can see various sea creatures such as dolphins, turtles, and penguins.
Insider travel tips: – Katsurahama Beach can get crowded during peak season, so it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or during weekdays.