Shikoku

Prefecture

Recommended spots for Shikoku

Pick up sightseeing spots and specialties!

Shikoku Travel Guides

Sightseeing and travel guide for Shikoku

Shikoku is a charming and picturesque region in Japan, comprising four prefectures: Ehime, Kagawa, Kochi, and Tokushima.

Recommendations for Sightseeing:
Recommendations for Dining:
  1. Sanuki Udon: Indulge in the renowned Sanuki Udon in Kagawa, featuring thick, chewy noodles served in a variety of delicious broths and toppings.
  2. Kochi cuisine: Try local specialties in Kochi, such as katsuo no tataki (lightly seared bonito), sawachi ryori (a traditional multi-course meal), and fresh seafood.
  3. Iyo Beef: Savor the exquisite Iyo Beef, a high-quality local beef from Ehime, known for its marbling and tenderness.
Recommendations for Lodging:
Recommendations for Hot Springs:
Recommendations for Activities:
  1. Shikoku Pilgrimage: Embark on a spiritual journey by walking a section of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a 1,200-kilometer route visiting 88 Buddhist temples.
  2. Shodoshima Olive Park: Explore Shodoshima Island, known for its olive groves and Mediterranean-like landscapes, and visit the Olive Park to learn about olive cultivation and enjoy scenic views.
  3. Naruto Bridge Skywalk: Experience the thrilling Naruto Bridge Skywalk, a glass-bottomed observation deck offering panoramic views of the Naruto Whirlpools.
  4. Yosakoi Festival: If you visit during the summer, try to catch the Yosakoi Festival in Kochi, a vibrant and energetic dance festival featuring teams from across Japan.
Recommendations for Souvenirs:

Enjoy your exploration of Shikoku, Japan, and have a wonderful trip!

Shikoku Gourmet and Souvenir Guide

Shikoku, the smallest of Japan's four main islands, offers a variety of specialties, local foods, popular restaurants, and souvenirs. Here's a glimpse of what you can expect:

Specialties and Local Foods:
Popular Restaurants for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner:
  1. Yamadaya: Located in Takamatsu, Yamadaya is a highly rated restaurant known for its delicious Sanuki Udon. Experience the authentic flavor of this local specialty served in a cozy atmosphere.
  2. Ochiai: Ochiai is a renowned restaurant in Kochi City, specializing in Katsuo no Tataki (seared bonito). Enjoy the smoky and flavorful bonito fish prepared with a unique grilling technique.
Souvenirs:
  1. Awa Indigo Products: Tokushima Prefecture is famous for its Awa Indigo dyeing. Look for indigo-dyed textiles, clothing, accessories, or handcrafted items as souvenirs.
  2. Yuzu Products: Yuzu, a citrus fruit with a fragrant aroma, is grown in various parts of Shikoku. Look for yuzu-flavored products like jams, sauces, or bath products as souvenirs.
  3. Handmade Crafts: Shikoku is known for its traditional arts and crafts. Look for pottery, ceramics, woodwork, or woven goods made by local artisans as unique souvenirs.
  4. Uchiwa (Japanese Fans): Uchiwa, traditional Japanese fans, are often associated with Shikoku's summer festivals. Look for hand-painted uchiwa featuring vibrant designs as decorative souvenirs.

Remember to explore local markets, specialty shops, and boutiques in different cities and towns across Shikoku to discover more regional products and souvenirs that capture the essence of the area. Enjoy your trip and the rich culinary and cultural experiences in Shikoku!

Seasonal festivals and events in Shikoku

Shikoku is the smallest of Japan's four main islands and is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural attractions.

Overview of Climate and Temperature in Shikoku:
  1. Spring (March to May):

    Spring in Shikoku is generally mild and pleasant. The temperatures gradually rise from around 9°C (48°F) in March to approximately 20°C (68°F) in May. Cherry blossoms (sakura) typically bloom in late March to early April, creating stunning displays of pink and white flowers across the island. Spring is a great time to visit Shikoku for its pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.

  2. Rainy Season (June to early July):

    During the rainy season, known as "tsuyu," Shikoku receives a significant amount of rainfall. The temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F), and the humidity levels can be high. It is advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat during this period as the rainfall can be frequent and heavy.

  3. Summer (July to September):

    Summer in Shikoku is hot and humid. The average temperatures range between 26°C (79°F) and 32°C (90°F), with high levels of humidity. July and August are the hottest months, with occasional heatwaves. It is recommended to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and wear lightweight and breathable clothing. Shikoku's coastal areas offer beaches and opportunities for water-based activities during the summer months.

  4. Fall (October to November):

    Autumn in Shikoku is generally pleasant with mild temperatures. The temperatures gradually cool down from around 20°C (68°F) in October to approximately 14°C (57°F) in November. The autumn foliage (koyo) season typically begins in late October, and you can enjoy vibrant displays of red, orange, and yellow leaves throughout the island. It's a popular time for sightseeing and hiking in Shikoku's mountains and parks.

  5. Winter (December to February):

    Winter in Shikoku is generally mild, although some areas may experience colder temperatures in the mountains. The average temperatures range from 9°C (48°F) to 15°C (59°F). While snowfall is not common in most parts of Shikoku, higher elevations may receive some snow. It is advisable to dress in layers and have a jacket handy, especially for cooler evenings.

Special Features of Shikoku:

Enjoy your sightseeing journey in the captivating island of Shikoku!

Temperature and weather conditions in Shikoku

Shikoku is the smallest of Japan's four main islands and is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural attractions.

Overview of Climate and Temperature in Shikoku:
  1. Spring (March to May):

    Spring in Shikoku is generally mild and pleasant. The temperatures gradually rise from around 9°C (48°F) in March to approximately 20°C (68°F) in May. Cherry blossoms (sakura) typically bloom in late March to early April, creating stunning displays of pink and white flowers across the island. Spring is a great time to visit Shikoku for its pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.

  2. Rainy Season (June to early July):

    During the rainy season, known as "tsuyu," Shikoku receives a significant amount of rainfall. The temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F), and the humidity levels can be high. It is advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat during this period as the rainfall can be frequent and heavy.

  3. Summer (July to September):

    Summer in Shikoku is hot and humid. The average temperatures range between 26°C (79°F) and 32°C (90°F), with high levels of humidity. July and August are the hottest months, with occasional heatwaves. It is recommended to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and wear lightweight and breathable clothing. Shikoku's coastal areas offer beaches and opportunities for water-based activities during the summer months.

  4. Fall (October to November):

    Autumn in Shikoku is generally pleasant with mild temperatures. The temperatures gradually cool down from around 20°C (68°F) in October to approximately 14°C (57°F) in November. The autumn foliage (koyo) season typically begins in late October, and you can enjoy vibrant displays of red, orange, and yellow leaves throughout the island. It's a popular time for sightseeing and hiking in Shikoku's mountains and parks.

  5. Winter (December to February):

    Winter in Shikoku is generally mild, although some areas may experience colder temperatures in the mountains. The average temperatures range from 9°C (48°F) to 15°C (59°F). While snowfall is not common in most parts of Shikoku, higher elevations may receive some snow. It is advisable to dress in layers and have a jacket handy, especially for cooler evenings.

Special Features of Shikoku:
Shikoku Pilgrimage:
Shikoku is famous for its pilgrimage route known as the Shikoku Pilgrimage (Shikoku Henro), which covers 88 temples associated with the Buddhist monk Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi). This pilgrimage attracts both religious devotees and tourists interested in exploring the cultural and historical aspects of the region.
Natural Landscapes:
Shikoku is also known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the scenic Seto Inland Sea, the rugged mountains of the Iya Valley, and the Naruto whirlpools in the Naruto Strait. The island offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and hot spring baths.
Delicious Cuisine:
Shikoku is also renowned for its delicious local cuisine, including Sanuki udon noodles, fresh seafood, and citrus fruits like mikan and sudachi.

Enjoy your sightseeing journey in the captivating island of Shikoku!

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