Exploring Shikoku, Japan’s Smallest “Big” Island

Of the four main islands that form Japan, Shikoku is the smallest. But it’s no less remarkable than its sisters. In fact, the island has four bustling prefectures: Kagawa, Kōchi, Ehime, and Tokushima. Each has its own fascinating attractions that can bewilder and amaze.

Kagawa, Japan’s smallest prefecture, is full of beautiful mountain ranges and green pastures. Up to 11% of the prefecture has been made into national parks to help preserve its beauty. It has a mild climate: warm and sunny all the year.

Ritsurin Koen

Destinations include:

Takamatsu—Kagawa’s capital city and home to the Takamatsu Castle ruins and the Ritsurin Koen, one of Japan’s most gorgeous landscape gardens.

Naoshima Island—an island devoted to contemporary art. The Benesse House, the Art House Project, and the Chichu Museum are just a few of its many fascinating attractions.

Shodoshima (Shodo Island)—recognized in Japanese creation mythology as one of the first islands born to the gods, it has a variety of attractions such as the Olive Park, Monkey Park, and many others.

Kochi Castle

Kōchi 

The mountainous Kōchi region of is the largest and least populated of Shikoku’s four prefectures.

Destinations include:

Kōchi Castle—built 1601-1611, it is the only Japanese castle still intact with its original palace, keep, and structures in the innermost ring of defense.

Shimanto River—one of the “Three Clear-Flowing Rivers in Japan,” this is the only river in Japan without any dams.

Matsuyama Castle

Ehime 

Ehime has an ideal climate, a rich history and culture, and breathtaking scenery.

Destinations include:

Uchiko—a small town once prominent for its production of quality white wax, it is also the site of Yokaichi Old Town, a rich array of historic buildings lining one street.

Matsuyama—the capital and the largest city in Shikoku. Its various attractions include the Dogo Hot Spring Spa (oldest onsen in Japan) and Matsuyama Castle.

Oku-Iya Kazurabashi

Tokushima

In the eastern part of Shikoku lies Tokushima, a mountainous prefecture with lush forests. The region produces Awa indigo dye, which is popularly used in apparel, furnishings, and so on.

Destinations include:

Iya Valley—a secluded area filled with deep gorges, mountain slopes, and vine bridges.

Naruto City—known for its awesome whirlpools underneath the Onaruto Bridge. The city also houses various museums and temples.

Tokushima City—its annual dance festival, the Awa Odori, is a popular tourist attraction.