Shikoku offers outstanding cuisine (from Sanuki udon to seared bonito), dramatic nature, the culture of the pilgrimage, and soothing hot springs. Highlights include Kagawa’s Kotohira-gu Shrine, Tokushima’s Naruto Whirlpools, Ehime’s Dogo Onsen, and Kochi’s Katsurahama Beach.
This model course travels by rail and highway bus, following an easy 9:00–18:00 schedule over 2 nights and 3 days to enjoy Shikoku’s nature, culture, and food.
Overview (2 nights, 3 days)
- Transport: JR Shikoku, highway buses
- Suggested bases: Night 1 = Takamatsu / Night 2 = Matsuyama or Kochi
- Sightseeing hours: depart 9:00 / arrive accommodation 18:00
- Budget estimate:
- Transport: approx. ¥5,000–8,000/day
- Meals: approx. ¥3,000–5,000/day
- Lodging: approx. ¥8,000–12,000/night
- Total (2 nights, 3 days): approx. ¥40,000–65,000/person
Itinerary
- Day 1: Kagawa & Tokushima – Takamatsu → visit Kotohira-gu (Konpira-san) → Sanuki udon lunch-hop → transfer to Naruto for whirlpool cruise or Onaruto Bridge promenade → stay in Takamatsu.
- Day 2: Ehime (Matsuyama) – Limited express to Matsuyama → bathe at Dogo Onsen & stroll shopping arcade → lunch: tai-meshi → Matsuyama Castle & Seto Inland Sea sunset → stay in Matsuyama.
- Day 3: Kochi – JR “Nanpu” to Kochi → Katsurahama Beach & Sakamoto Ryoma statue → lunch: seared bonito set (katsuo no tataki) & street foods → Hirome Market, (Sun only) Sunday Market → depart from Kochi or via Takamatsu.
Seasonal Highlights (months)
- Spring (Mar–May): Sakura at Kotohira-gu; pilgrimage season
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak Naruto whirlpools; Kochi Yosakoi Festival; beaches
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Foliage in Iya Valley; autumn colors at Matsuyama Castle; perfect time for hot springs
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Dogo Onsen steam; calm Seto winter scenery; seasonal bonito & citrus
Food & Souvenirs
- Food: Sanuki udon, seared bonito (katsuo no tataki), tai-meshi, Tokushima ramen, yuzu dishes
- Souvenirs: dried udon, Imabari towels, Botchan dango, sudachi products, yuzu ponzu, katsuobushi items