Shikoku, the smallest of Japan's four main islands, is a quieter Japan of mountain gorges, original castles, hot springs and the 88-temple pilgrimage. Five days by train covers its highlights: Takamatsu and Ritsurin Garden, the hilltop shrine at Kotohira, the vine bridges of the Iya Valley, the city of Kochi, and Matsuyama with its castle and Dogo Onsen.
Day 1: Takamatsu
Reach Takamatsu by train from Okayama, around an hour across the Seto Ohashi Bridge. Spend the afternoon at Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan's finest strolling gardens, and try Kagawa's famous sanuki udon. Takamatsu is also the ferry port for Naoshima and the Setouchi art islands.
Day 2: Kotohira and the Iya Valley
Climb the long stone stairway to Kotohira-gu, the shrine known as Konpira-san, with wide views from the top. Continue by train towards Oboke for the Iya Valley, a deep, forested gorge with vine bridges and remote villages. Stay overnight in the valley.
Day 3: Kochi
Travel on to Kochi, a lively city with one of Japan's original castles and the Hirome Market, a food hall known for seared bonito, katsuo no tataki. Katsurahama beach and the statue of Sakamoto Ryoma are a short bus ride away.
Days 4–5: Uwajima and Matsuyama
Head west to Matsuyama, stopping at Uwajima for its small original castle if time allows. In Matsuyama, take the ropeway up to Matsuyama Castle, then bathe at Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs, whose wooden bathhouse is said to have inspired scenes in a famous animated film. From Matsuyama, fly or take the train back towards Okayama.
The 88-temple pilgrimage
The Shikoku pilgrimage links 88 temples in a circuit of around 1,200 kilometres. Walking it takes weeks, but many visitors see a few temples along this route. Our Shikoku pilgrimage guide explains how it works.
Getting around
Trains connect the main cities, but services are less frequent than on the main islands, so plan around the timetable. A rental car gives more freedom in the Iya Valley. Our Matsuyama and Dogo guide has more on the west of the island.
FAQ
How many days do you need in Shikoku? Five days covers Takamatsu, Kotohira, the Iya Valley, Kochi and Matsuyama. A week allows a slower pace or the Setouchi art islands.
How do you get to Shikoku? By train from Okayama across the Seto Ohashi Bridge to Takamatsu, around an hour, or by air to Matsuyama, Takamatsu or Kochi.
What is Shikoku famous for? The 88-temple pilgrimage, the Iya Valley, original castles in Kochi, Matsuyama and Uwajima, Dogo Onsen and sanuki udon.
Is Shikoku worth visiting? Yes, for travellers who want a quieter Japan of mountains, hot springs and castles, beyond the busy main routes.
Planning a Shikoku trip for yourself, your family or your clients? Write to b2b@explera.jp or message us on WhatsApp at +66 93 656 8090 with your dates and group size, and we will reply within 24 hours. Explera is a destination management company for Japan — IATA TIDS 96215733, ASTA member 900408341.
