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Top 11 Places to Visit in Shikoku, Japan for The First Time

Jan 15th, 2025 | By Stella Che

Japan has always been on my travel bucket list, and I was so excited to finally be back this summer after almost 9 years. There are still so many places I haven’t explored, and Shikoku was at the top of my list.

 

Shikoku might not be as famous as Tokyo or Kyoto, but it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature, experience rich culture, and enjoy some incredible food.

 

If you’re not sure what to see on your first trip to Shikoku, don’t worry! I’m sharing my top 11 favorite spots, and each one offers a little something special from every prefecture to help you make the most of your trip.

 

I also have a video guide showcasing Shikoku! If you want to take a closer look at each location, feel free to check it out!

Table of Contents

Where is Shikoku

How to get to Shikoku

When to visit Shikoku

Top places to visit in Shikoku

1. Shodoshima
2. Washuzan 2nd Observation Deck
3. Snow Park Umpenji
4. Kotohira gu Shrine
5. Dogo Onsen
6. Matsuyama Castle
7. Watatsumi Shrine

8. Sada Submersible Bridge
9. Kochi Castle
10. Oboke Gorge 
11. Vine Bridge in the Iya Valley

More places to visit in Shikoku

Travel resources

More travel inspiration

Where is Shikoku?

Shikoku is an island in southern Japan, and it’s actually the smallest of the country’s four main islands. It sits between Honshu to the north and Kyushu to the southwest, with the Seto Inland Sea to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south. 

 

The island is made up of four prefectures: Tokushima, Kagawa, Ehime, and Kochi. Each one has its own unique landscapes, landmarks, and cultural heritage.

source: www.freeworldmaps.net

How to get to Shikoku?

There are a few ways to get to Shikoku, like by air, train, car, and more. But if you’re looking for the fastest option, I’d recommend flying. From Tokyo, it only takes about 1.5 hours to reach any of Shikoku’s airports.

When to visit Shikoku?

Spring: The weather is very nice, and cherry blossoms are in full bloom, especially around spots like Matsuyama Castle, Kochi Castle, and the Iya Valley. It’s such a great time to enjoy the outdoors and soak in all the pretty sakura vibes.

 

Summer: It’s definitely hot, but that makes it perfect for outdoor fun like ziplining at Shimanto River, taking a boat ride through Oboke Gorge, or chilling at beaches like Chichibugahama. Also, summer is festival season. The Awa Odori Festival in August is a must-see, so make sure to book your stay early.

 

Fall: The weather is quite comfortable, making it perfect for hiking and sightseeing. The forests turn stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow, so it’s a dream for anyone into fall foliage photos.

 

Winter: Winters here are mild with barely any snow (except in the mountains), which makes it a peaceful time to explore without crowds. Temples and shrines are extra serene, and it’s just a chill time to soak in the vibe.

Top places to visit in Shikoku

1. Shodoshima (Kagawa Prefecture) – Location Map

Shodoshima is a beautiful little island located just off Takamatsu, making it a perfect place for a day trip. It’s a hidden gem in Kagawa, known for its olive groves, beautiful coastline, and a Mediterranean vibe.

 

You can get there by ferry (about an hour) or a high-speed boat (just 30 minutes). We went for the high-speed boat, but honestly, we kind of regretted it because the boat connections to Tonosho port aren’t frequent, especially if you plan to stay a whole day.

 

If you’re planning to visit, there are a few spots definitely worth checking out. 

 

Shodoshima Olive Park

Shodoshima Olive Park
Shodoshima Olive Park

Shodoshima Olive Park is a scenic hillside park. This is where we learned about olive oil production, discovered some historical displays, and try olive-based products like oil, soap, and even ice cream. Also, the views from the park were amazing, we really loved the scenery there.

 

Fun fact: Shodoshima is called “Olive Island” because of its famous olive trees. With its Mediterranean-like climate, it’s the perfect spot for growing olives!

 

Angel Road

Angel Road
Angel Road
Angel Road
Angel Road

Then, there’s Angel Road, one of the island’s most famous spots. It’s a sandbar that connects tiny islands, but it only shows up at low tide, so make sure to check the tide schedule! For an amazing view, we hiked up to the Hill of Promises, where you can get stunning panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, and ring the Bell of Love to make a wish!

Gift of the Sun

After that, we headed back to the ferry port. We came across a stunning art installation called “Gift of the Sun.” It’s such a cool piece of art that blends perfectly with nature, making it an ideal spot for photos, especially with the breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.

 

Kankakei National Park

If you have the time, you’ve got to check out Kankakei National Park. It’s the most scenic spot on the island and even one of Japan’s top three gorges. You can hike, drive, or take a cable car up to the top (over 600 meters).

 

From there, you’ll get panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Seto Inland Sea from the observation decks. If you’re into fall vibes, the whole place lights up with gorgeous colors during autumn.

 

We didn’t get to visit this time, but it’s definitely on my bucket list for the next trip.

   Travel Tips:

  • Make sure to check the ferry schedule ahead of time, as they don’t run too often.

  • Renting a car is the easiest way to get around because public transport isn’t very convenient on the island.

  • If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, it gets hot.

  • If Angel Road is on your list, check the tide schedule so you don’t miss it.

2.  Washuzan 2nd Observation Deck (Kagawa Prefecture) – Location Map

Seto Ohashi Bridge
Washuzan 2nd Observation Deck

The Washuzan 2nd Observation Deck is one of the best spots for stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the iconic Seto Ohashi Bridge. The massive two-tiered bridge connecting Honshu and Shikoku looked stunning, especially during golden hour. It’s also the Golden Gate Bridge’s sister. Here is a hidden gem, way less crowded than other tourist spots, so we got to relax, enjoy the view, and take our time.

   Travel Tips:

  • The best time to visit is during golden hour, it’s when the views are the most magical.

  • If you’re after some seasonal colors, spring and fall are the best times to go.

  • This spot is in Okayama, so if you’re coming from Shikoku, you’ll need to drive over the Seto Ohashi Bridge, which has a toll.

  • For the best photos, bring a wide-angle lens or a 24–70mm zoom lens to capture both the landscapes and portraits perfectly.

3. Snow Park Umpenji (Kagawa Prefecture) – Location Map

Another hidden gem in Kagawa prefecture, Snow Park Umpenji. It perched at the top of Mt. Unpenji, 927 meters above sea level. It’s one of the most breathtaking spots on Shikoku and the highest point in Kagawa Prefecture. 

 

You can reach the top by cable car or car, and the park is just a short walk from the cable car station. Near the station, you’ll also find the famous Unpenji Temple, home to 500 arhat statues. It’s definitely worth checking out if you have some extra time.

 

Inside the park, there are a few swings set up on the hill, letting you swing while soaking in the stunning landscapes. It was such an unique and fun experience!

 

There are also so many awesome photo spots, perfect for capturing those insta-worthy shots.

 

   Travel Tips:

  • The easiest way to get to the top is by cable car, so don’t forget to park at the Unpenji Ropeway Parking Lot.

  • If you’re driving up to the park, be prepared for some narrow roads along the way.

  • For the best panoramic views, visit on a sunny day.

  • If you want to enjoy the swings without the crowds, head there in the morning, but bring a light jacket because it can get chilly.

4. Kotohira gu Shrine (Kagawa Prefecture) – Location Map

Kotohira gu Shrine
Kotohira gu Shrine
Kotohira gu Shrine
Kotohira gu Shrine
Kotohira gu Shrine
Kotohira gu Shrine

Kotohira gu Shrine is one of Japan’s most famous Shinto shrines, sitting on Mount Zozu in Kotohira, Kagawa Prefecture. This place has over 1,000 years of history. To get to the main shrine, we had to climb more than 700 stone steps, we were sweating like crazy! But the views at the top made it totally worth it.

 

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can keep climbing to the very top, which is over 1,300 steps in total.

 

Along the way, there are plenty of souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can take breaks and grab a snack.

 

It was such a fun mix of history, a bit of a workout, and incredible scenery. Definitely an experience to remember!

 

   Travel Tips:

  • Wear comfy shoes because you’ll be climbing hundreds of stone steps.

  • You don’t have to climb all 1,300+ steps, just getting to the main shrine at 785 steps is more than enough to enjoy the amazing shrine and city views.

  • Parking is limited and pricey, so I’d recommend taking a train and walking to the entrance instead.

  • Stay hydrated if you’re visiting in the hotter months.

  • Visit early to beat the crowds and avoid the heat, especially during summer.

5. Dogo Onsen (Ehime Prefecture)  – Location Map

Dogo Onsen
Dogo Onsen

Dogo Onsen is in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture. It’s one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, with over 3,000 years of history. The main bathhouse, Dogo Onsen Honkan, is this beautiful old wooden building.

 

When we got there, it was super crowded, so we decided to walk around and chill at one of the footbaths nearby instead. If you want to avoid the rush, try to go early or late in the day.

 

There’s also a shopping street that connects Dogo Onsen Station to the main Onsen building. You can find a lot of restaurants, souvenir shops, and cafes. It’s a fun place to go around even if you’re not planning on soaking in the baths.

 

   Travel Tips:

  • This place gets pretty busy during peak season, so starting your day early is the best way to enjoy the hot springs in peace.

  • The easiest way to get there is by train, just get off at Dogo Onsen Station.

  • If you’re looking for a quieter and more affordable onsen experience, there are a few public baths nearby as alternatives, like Dogo Onsen Asuka no Yu or Dogo Onsen Tsubakinoyu.

  • For a quick and free foot bath, check out the Dogo Onsen Sky Walkway & Footbath.

  • If you’re driving, you can park at the Dogo Hot Spring Parking Lot, which is conveniently right next to the footbath.

6. Matsuyama Castle (Ehime Prefecture)  – Location Map

Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle
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If you’re in Matsuyama, visiting Matsuyama Castle is an absolute must. It’s one of Japan’s twelve original castles that survived the feudal era without being destroyed by wars or natural disasters.

 

The castle sits on top of a hill, and we took a fun chairlift ride to get up there. If that’s not your thing, there’s also a cable car you can take. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s also a walking path (which takes about 15–20 minutes) to the top from the base.

 

Once you’re inside the castle, there’s so much to explore, like samurai armor, swords, guns and tons of cool historical displays. We even tried out some displays, for example Japanese swords and armor, and it was so much fun!

 

But the best part is the view from the top, we were blown away by the amazing 360-degree views of Matsuyama City, the ocean, and the mountains. Such an unforgettable experience.

 

   Travel Tips:

  • Get there right when it opens to enjoy a quieter visit.

  • If you love cherry blossoms, spring is the best time to go. The views from the castle with the blooms are absolutely stunning.

  • There are plenty of great viewpoints along the way to the castle, perfect for snapping some photos.

  • Wear comfy shoes because the castle grounds are pretty big, and you’ll be walking quite a bit, including some uneven paths.

  • The entrance fee is around 510 yen, and it’s cash only, so make sure to bring cash.

7. Watatsumi Shrine (Kochi Prefecture)  – Location Map

Watatsumi Shrine
Watatsumi Shrine

Watatsumi Shrine, or Dragon King Palace, is one of the best sights in Kochi. It’s located along the coastline, and the views are amazing, with the Pacific Ocean right in front of you.

 

The shrine itself is beautiful, with traditional Japanese design, vibrant colors, and intricate carvings telling ancient stories. It’s been a place of worship for fishermen and seafarers for a long time, as it’s believed to protect those who work on the sea.

 

You can take a moment to pray, grab an omamori (good luck charm), or just enjoy the peaceful vibes. Also, it’s a fantastic spot for landscape photography!

 

If you’re in Kochi, definitely check it out!

 

   Travel Tips:

  • Driving is the easiest way to get to Watatsumi Shrine, especially if you’re exploring Kochi.
  • If you’re planning to make an offering or pick up some omamori (good luck charms), don’t forget to bring cash.

  • There’s plenty to check out nearby, like the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum, Katsurahama Aquarium, and Urado Castle Ruins, you can easily spend 2–3 hours exploring the area.

  • Shrines can get crowded during Japanese holidays and festivals, so try visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.

8. Sada Submersible Bridge (Kochi Prefecture) – Location Map

Sada Submersible Bridge
Sada Submersible Bridge

The Shimanto River is often called the “last clear stream of Japan,” and for good reason, it’s got pristine waters and untouched natural beauty. Stretching 196 kilometers (122 miles), it’s actually the longest river in Shikoku.

 

One spot you’ve got to check out is the Sada Submersible Bridge. It’s one of the iconic low-water bridges in the area, and what makes it unique is that it doesn’t have railings. It’s built that way so floodwaters can flow over it without wrecking it. The views here are incredible too, with crystal-clear water and lush greenery everywhere.

 

   Travel Tips:

  • The morning light is perfect for capturing stunning shots of the bridge and river, especially if you’re into photography. Also, it’s cooler in the morning, which is always a bonus.

  • The easiest way to get to the Sada Submersible Bridge is by car, it’s only about a 15-minute drive from Nakamura Station in Shimanto City.

  • If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike at the station and enjoy a scenic ride to the bridge instead.

  • The bridge is also open to cars, but if you’re walking across, keep an eye out for oncoming vehicles.

  • There’s so much to do in the area too, like rent a kayak, take a boat tour, have a picnic, or even dip your feet in the crystal-clear waters. It’s such a fun and relaxing spot.

9. Kochi Castle (Kochi Prefecture) – Location Map

Kochi Castle

Another place you can’t miss in Kochi is Kochi Castle. It’s located in the heart of Kochi City, the capital of Kochi Prefecture. The castle is one of Japan’s best-preserved original castles. Built during the Edo period (1603-1867), it’s one of the rare castles where the main keep (tenshu), gates, and other original structures are still standing. 

 

Inside the castle, there’s a bunch of historical artifacts on display, like samurai weapons, armor, and tools from the Edo period. It’s very interesting to see how people lived back then and learn about the castle’s role in local history.

 

When we reached the top, we enjoyed a stunning panoramic view of Kochi City, with mountains all around and the Pacific Ocean nearby. The mix of urban vibes, historic buildings, and natural beauty was just amazing. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Kochi!

 

   Travel Tips:

  • There’s an entrance fee of 420 yen to go inside.

  • It’s very easy to reach without a car since it’s right in the city center. 

  • You can visit Kochi Castle any time of the year, but spring and autumn are the best if you want to catch the cherry blossoms or fall foliage around the castle.

  • There’s a lot to see once you’re in. You can easily spend 60-90 minutes exploring, so plan your visit accordingly.

10. Oboke Gorge (Tokushima Prefecture) – Location Map

If you’re into nature, you should definitely take a sightseeing boat ride to enjoy the stunning views of Oboke Gorge, located in the Iya Valley of Tokushima Prefecture.

 

This gorge is famous for its towering cliffs, unique rock formations, and crystal-clear waters that have been shaped by nature over millions of years.

 

The boat ride costs 1,500 yen, and you can grab your tickets at the reception. It’s a 30-minute ride, and along the way, the guides share fascinating stories and legends about the gorge’s history.

 

The whole ride was such an unique experience! We learned a lot about the area and got to enjoy some beautiful views along the way. Highly recommended!

 

   Travel Tips:

  • The best way to get to Oboke Gorge Sightseeing Boat Center is by car, but parking can be limited since it’s a popular spot. Try to get there as soon as it opens to avoid the crowds and long lines for the boat ride.

  • The sun can be pretty intense, especially in summer, so be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat for protection.

  • For the best experience, make sure to visit on a clear, sunny day.

  • The boat ride itself is calm with no heavy rapids, just a smooth cruise.

  • There’s a restaurant at the boat center if you want to grab some food before or after your ride.

11. Vine Bridge in Iya Valley (Tokushima Prefecture) – Location Map

Vine Bridge in the Iya Valley
Vine Bridge in the Iya Valley

The Vine Bridge is just about a 25 minute drive from Oboke Gorge. This iconic Kazurabashi Bridge is one of Shikoku’s most unique attractions. Made from wisteria vines (kazura) and wooden planks, it has this cool, rustic and ancient vibe.

 
The suspension bridge has been reinforced with wooden planks, so it is sturdy and safe.

 

As we walked across, the planks were spaced out, giving us a clear view of the river rushing below. Also, the bridge sways a little with each step, which definitely adds a bit of excitement to the whole experience.

 

If you have some time, definitely check out the Biwa Waterfall near the bridge. The waterfall cascades into a crystal-clear pool before flowing into the Iya River. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!

 

   Travel Tips:

  • It’s open year-round, but if you want to see the surrounding landscapes in full color, fall is the best time to visit.

  • Renting a car is a great way to explore the Iya Valley, and there’s parking available near the bridge entrance (just remember to bring cash for the fee).

  • The entrance fee is 550 yen.

  • Since the planks on the bridge are spaced out, avoid wearing flip-flops and go for sturdy, non-slip shoes.

  • There are a few small shops near the bridge, but it’s a good idea to bring your own water to stay hydrated.

More places to visit in Shikoku

Kagawa Prefectures

 

  1. Takamatsu Downtown: It is full of energy, with shopping streets like Marugamemachi. This covered arcade is packed with shops, food stalls, and is a great spot to grab a bite or shop for souvenirs.

     

  2. Shishi no Reigan Viewpoint: It is one of Shodoshima’s most unique natural landmarks and an absolute must-see. From here, you got a panoramic view of Takamatsu City and the Seto Inland Sea.

     

  3. Zenigata Sunae: It is an unusual sand art feature that blends natural beauty with historical significance. This giant, coin-shaped design is meant to represent an ancient Japanese coin and sits along the Shirotori River. It was a great spot for snapping some unique photos while enjoying the calm, scenic surroundings.

  4. Chichibugahama Beach: It is one of my favorite spots to watch the sunset in Shikoku. When it’s low tide, the water is very shallow and mirror-like, reflecting the sky, clouds, and everything around it, making it feel like the horizon goes on forever. 

Kochi Prefectures

 

  1.  Hirome Market: This bustling food market is perfect for diving into the local culture like we did. We got to try fresh local seafood, drinks, and all kinds of delicious dishes.  The market has this fun, food court vibe where you share tables with locals and other travelers. It’s such a cool way to meet people and really experience the heart of Kochi!

  2. Shimanto River Zipline: Something I was really excited to do in shikoku island is Shimanto River Zipline. It’s basically a ride where you glide across the river, giving you that awesome rush of flying while taking in the stunning scenery. 

Travel resources

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About the author - Stella

Hi, I’m a travel photographer from Vancouver, Canada. Here, you’ll find my travel experiences, offer helpful guides and tips, reveal photogenic locations, and showcase stunning images and videos captured through my lens from around the world. Hopefully, my passion for travel and photography inspires like-minded people.

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