The island, home to four prefectures, is vibrant, both culturally and visually.
NEW YORK – While the smallest of Japan’s four major islands, Shikoku offers a plethora of unique cultural experiences, outdoor explorations, picturesque coastlines, legendary Udon noodles and much more. The island, home to four prefectures, is vibrant, both culturally and visually. Naoshima, for example, will take part in the Setouchi Triennale once again this year, showcasing the best local art and culture. The capital of Ehime Prefecture, Matsuyama, has been home to many masters of haiku and to one of the oldest onsens in the country. Below are just a few ways to enjoy some of Shikoku’s many experiences.
Kagawa Prefecture
Foodies can seek out one of Kagawa Prefecture’s biggest attractions: the Udon Taxi. With more than 800 udon restaurants in the prefecture alone, and only so much time to spare, the Udon Taxi makes light footwork of enjoying this Japanese classic. The Udon Taxi drivers are masters at what they do, having passed three tests in order to give their guests the best tour possible. First, they must pass a written exam that tests their knowledge on all the udon shops in Kagawa. Then, an examiner rides with the guide to give on-site exams. Finally, all drivers must be able to make udon noodles themselves by hand. Whether travelers are looking for one particular restaurant or are just restaurant hopping, a trusty Udon Taxi guide will be by their side.
Tokushima Prefecture
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do on Shikoku. The second tallest mountain in western Japan, Mount Tsurugi, towers at over six thousand feet. The mountain may seem like a challenge at first, but even novice hikers can make their way to the top by taking a quick chairlift ride. At the top of the mountain lies a shrine, mountain huts and wooden boardwalks that take hikers to various viewpoints for panoramic views. On a clear day, views can be seen of Wakayama, Cape Ashizuri and even the Seto Inland Sea.
Kochi Prefecture
A popular way to tour the rich natural environment of Kochi Prefecture, withRiver offers kayaking and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) experiences along the Shimanto River. Guests can spot birds and fish along picturesque turquoise waters with a guide who also takes photos during the tour. For beginners who are also looking for a challenge, the half-day tour has a few rapid sections that flow at just the right speed. Both the half-day tour and the easy course end with a view of the Chinkabashi Bridge, a special bridge without rails specifically designed to be easily flooded should the river ever rise.
Ehime Prefecture
Another large part of Shikoku culture, the Saijo Festival is one of the region’s largest celebrations of the year. Held every year in the middle of October, the brilliant display of craftsmanship and art through the 150 danjiri (large wooden floats) and mikoshi (portable shrines) parades through Saijo City, ultimately ending at Isono Shrine where the beautiful structures are handed over to the gods as an offering. The carts lit up with thousands of paper lanterns shining over the Kamogawa riverbed is a sight to behold while the spiritual energy is one to feel in person.
Considered a significant part of the culture of Shikoku, the Shikoku Henro is a pilgrimage to 88 temples dotted around the island. Shikoku is where the famed Buddhist monk Kukai spent his life and trained from the late 8th century to the early 9th century. He founded the Shingon school of Buddhism and became one of the most revered religious figures in Japanese history. The Shikoku Henro includes all the sites where monks believe Kukai trained and, over time, it became a popular pilgrimage route. What makes this pilgrimage particularly interesting is that there are no set rules: any temple can be visited in any order at any time of day by any means of travel. Local residents have a unique tradition called osettai, an offering of food and drink to assist pilgrims on their journey. The practice is a part of Shikoku’s welcoming culture that has developed in the region over the ages.
Tatiana is the news co-ordinator for TravelDailyNews Media Network (traveldailynews.gr, traveldailynews.com and traveldailynews.asia). Her role includes to monitor the hundrends of news sources of TravelDailyNews Media Network and skim the most important according to our strategy. She holds a Bachelor degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
