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Shikoku UnveiledShikoku is the smallest of the four main islands of Japan, and it has its own unique culture and customs. A trip in Shikoku offers a more relaxing experience, complete with beautiful natural scenery, impressive sights such as feudal castles, hot spring baths, ancient religious sites, and a southern flair that cannot be experienced anywhere else in Japan.
Okayama - Kurashiki - Takamatsu - Matsuyama
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Days 1 & 2 - Okayama & Kurashiki
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Stay at the Hotel Granvia Okayama and a local Ryokan (traditional inn)
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This tour can be arranged separately or as part of a longer Japan trip. Start the journey with a bullet train transfer from Osaka, Tokyo or a departure point of your choice. Enjoy the rest of your first day at leisure to explore the bustling town of Okayama. Start the second day with a visit to the Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's top three traditional gardens. In the afternoon travel to Kurashiki and check in to your ryokan. You can explore the nearby historic district, willow-lined canal area with storehouses preserved since the Edo Period (1600-1868), before returning to your lodging for some fine Japanese cuisine and a relaxing bath. |
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Day 3 - Takamatsu
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Stay at the ANA Hotel Clement Takamatsu
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Upon leaving Kurashiki, you will cross the Seto-Ohashi bridge to Shikoku. After checking in to your hotel you will head to the nearby town of Kotohira. Here you will have the chance to see Konpirasan, a popular Shinto Shrine located atop a huge staircase. Afterwards, you can see Kanamaruza, one of the oldest remaining Kabuki theaters in Japan. Afterwards, you can return to Takamatsu and sample the local specialty food, Sanuki Udon, which is a thick, wheat-based noodle dish served in a clear broth. |
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Day 4 - Takamatsu
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Stay at the ANA Hotel Clement Takamatsu
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An early morning trip to Ritsurin Koen Park before the crowds arrive. This Japanese garden is one of the most beautiful in Japan, and was built by feudal lords during the Edo Period. Shikoku Mura, located to the east on the Yashima Peninsula, is an interesting open air museum that exhibits traditional buildings from all across Shikoku in a lovely park setting. If you have time, there is also a small museum of Western art in the vicinity. Return to Takamatsu later in the afternoon. |
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Days 5 to 7 - Matsuyama
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Stay at a local Ryokan (traditional inn)
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Travel to Matsuyama today, a pleasant town that is home to Dogo Onsen, Japan's oldest hot spring resort. The hot springs are surrounded by comfortable resorts, intimate restaurants and a wonderful market. But before you begin shopping, you will head to Ishiteji temple, an impressive temple that is number 51 of the "88 Temple Pilgrimage", the most famous religious pilgrimage route in Japan that circles around the entire island of Shikoku. The rest of your time is at leisure to soak in the hot baths of Dogo Onsen, relax at your hotel or explore the peaceful surroundings. The tour ends the next day. Onward travel and add-on tours are available. |
