6-Day Best of Shikoku Cultural Heritage Tour

Embark on an incredible 6-day journey through the charming island of Shikoku! Take in the splendor and fascinating cultural heritage of Shikoku while you explore Ehime, Kochi, and Tokushima prefectures. Feel as though you have taken a trip back in time, walking through the historic, old streets of Yokaichi Gokoku Areas. Enjoy a variety of scrumptious local food options at the popular Kure Taisho Town Market and Hirome Market. Experience a fun yet thrilling canyoning adventure through the scenic Nametoko Gorge. Visit Shikoku’s historic Matsuyama Castle, Uwajima Castle, and Kochi Castle, and learn more about Japan’s rich history. Definitely, an unforgettable cultural experience like no other!

Tour Highlights

• Experience the impressive cultural heritage of Shikoku in 6 days

• Get a glimpse into the Japan’s fascinating culture and rich history

• Visit popular Shikoku destinations like Ishiteji Temple, Uchiko-za Theater, Shimanto River, Katsurahama Beach, Oboke Gorge, and Ochiai Village

• See notable castles in Shikoku including Matsuyama Castle, Uwajima Castle, and Kochi Castle

• Enjoy a thrilling canyoning adventure through Nametoko Gorge

• Try some exquisite local culinary specialties such Kuredon and Katsuo no Tataki

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Matsuyama

Greet your driver at the designated pick up location, taking you to the hotel. Take time to freshen up before meeting your local guide for a short orientation. Then, enjoy the rest of the day at your own leisure. 

Day 2

See the Historic Matsuyama Castle

Travel back in time as you visit the remarkable Matsuyama Castle, one of the few original surviving castles in Japan. A designated Important Cultural Property, marvel atl the unique features of the castle highlighting the distinct architectural elements of the Momoyama period and hear the interesting stories related to the consequential castle.

Marvel at the Spectacular Ishiteji Temple

Continue with a trip to the beautiful Ishiteji Temple, the 51st Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. With several of its structures having been designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, learn about the historic and religious significance of Ishiteji Temple. Explore the legendary temple and learn more about its association to the foundational legend of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. 

Walk Along the Historic Streets of Yokaichi Gokoku Areas

Make your way through the old streets of the Yokaichi Gokoku area lined with beautifully preserved merchant houses, warehouses, and private residences from the late Edo, Meiji, and Taisho periods. Take in the nostalgic charm of the districts while you admire the architectural elements of the traditional structures around the area and get a glimpse into the continued lifestyle of the local residents. 

Visit the Notable Uchiko-za Theater

Explore the many trap doors and hidden passageways around the stage of Uchiko-za Theater and get to examine the mechanics behind the elaborate Kabuki stages. You can experience the life of a star standing on the main stage and learn the incredible history of the theater. A beautiful, old-fashioned kabuki theater, Uchiko-za Theater is fully operational and still continues to host events, including kabuki and bunraku performances. 

Day 3

See the Remarkable Uwajima Castle

Begin the day with a visit to the historic Uwajima Castle, one of the originally surviving castles in Japan. Situated inside a peculiar pentagon-shaped land area, admire the massive stone walls as you make your way through the steep flights of stone steps, enjoy the impressive wooden interiors of the castle along with amazing views of Uwajima City and Uwajima Bay, and get to know the history behind the construction of the castle. 

Experience the Thrilling Canyons of Nametoko Gorge

Get your adrenaline pumping on a fun and exciting canyoning adventure down the Nametoko Gorge. One of the best canyoning spots in Japan, enjoy the slides and uninterrupted smooth rocks of granite as you navigate the canyon, slide down natural scenic chutes, jump into the majestic Yukiwa Falls, and descend the renowned Nametoko Gorge by rope. 

Appreciate the Scenic Beauty of Shimanto River

Journey to the quaint town of Tsuno to unravel one of Japan’s best kept secrets, Shimanto River. One of the longest rivers in Shikoku, Shimanto River is also known as the last free-flowing crystal clear river in Japan. Spot the intriguing chinkabashi bridges along the river, be amazed at how locals live in harmony with nature, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramas.

Day 4

Explore the Popular Kure Taisho Town Market

Start the day with a scrumptious feast at the local’s beloved Kura Taisho Town Market. Take a stroll through the quaint alley lined with shops decorated with colorful fishermen’s flags indicating a successful catch and immerse yourself into the bustling atmosphere while checking out the abundant selection of freshly caught seafood, local produce and homemade side dishes and interacting with the locals. Do not miss the chance to try the popular local specialty called Kuredon, a bowl of rice topped with fresh seafood of your choice.

Stop by the Insightful Kochi Taba Hiroba

Continue to Kochi Tabi Hiroba (Kochi Travel Plaza) located in the center of Kochi Prefecture. A great starting point for Kochi sightseeing, browse through the comprehensive sightseeing guides on beautiful sights and exciting activities, see a display of Sakamoto Ryoma’s prized possessions, and get a chance to dress up in a traditional Japanese outfit.

Visit the Bustling Hirome Market

Take in the vibrant scenes and lively atmosphere of the popular Hirome Market.  Best known place to eat in Kochi, Hirome Market offers an incredible selection of fresh, local produce. You can check out the food stalls selling mouth-watering local specialties like katsuo no tataki (skipjack tuna), nori tempura, and takoyaki as well as local shops selling souvenirs, clothes, and accessories. Do not forget to try Kochi’s famous traditional snack, Imokenpi. Truly an authentic local experience!

See the Historic Kochi Castle

Visit Kochi Castle, one of the few castles to have survived the fires, wars, and other catastrophes of the post feudal age. One of the designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan, check out the unique features of Kochi Castle and its historical treasures. 

Appreciate the Scenic Beauty of Katsurahama Beach

Start the day with a visit to Katsurahama Beach on the picturesque Tosa Bay. Admire the beautiful pine trees, the crescent-shaped sweep of sand, and the crystal clear waters. Stop by the Ryoma Sakamoto Memorial Museum, with a huge bronze statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, and discover how he played a significant role in Japan’s history.

Day 5

Discover the Enchanting Oboke and Koboke Gorges

Make your way through the captivating Oboke and Koboke Gorges situated near the edge of the Iya Valley in the mountains of Tokushima. Board on the Oboke Sightseeing Boat Cruise, enjoy a cruise on the beautiful Yoshino River through the Oboke Gorge, check out a few fascinating rock formations, and appreciate the breathtaking natural landscape. 

Walk Across the Impressive Kazurabashi Bridge

Travel back in time as you walk across the traditional Kazurabashi Bridge, made from wood and rope-like vines, and experience the rugged side of Japan! Get an insight into the significance of the vine bridges for the people in the remote and mountainous Iya Valley, learn how wisteria vines were traditionally weaved together, and hear different stories related to the origin of the vine bridges.

Explore the Historic Ochiai Village

Take a walk up to the Ochiai View Tower for an incredible view over the beautiful Ochiai Village, one of the most scenic mountainside villages of Iya. Check out the restored traditional thatched roof houses around the village and learn about its unique system of sustainable farming. 

Day 6

Depart from Tokushima

Take a convenient transport to Tokushima Awadori Airport or Station for your onward journey.

Inclusions

• 5 Nights Accommodation in High International Standard Hotel 

• Breakfast (5)

• Dinner (2)

• English-Speaking Local Guide

• Transportation as Per Itinerary

• Admission Fees and Activities as Per Itinerary

Exclusions

• Local and International Flights to and from Shikoku

• Airport Transfers

• Local Hotel Tax

• Meals Not Mentioned

• Drinks

• Visas

• Travel Insurance

• Personal Expenses

• Gratuities (Optional)

Additional Information

• The tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

• A moderate amount of walking is involved; Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• Arrival time at each location may vary depending on the season and the day of the week due to traffic conditions.

• If there is insufficient time for all attractions on the itinerary, the tour guide will adjust the length of time spent at other attractions. 

• Delays, shortening of the tours, or omissions to the itinerary due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances are not subject to refund.

• Itinerary is subject to change and the attractions may be closed due to traffic, weather, and force majeure. An alternative itinerary may also be omitted depending on road conditions.

• Please note that on days in which no activities are planned, you are free to explore at your leisure; all activities and purchases will be at your own expense. You will have your tour guide's mobile number in case of emergency.