7-Day Best of Shikoku Heritage Discovery Tour

Experience the magnificent culture and rich history of Shikoku as you embark on a 7-day journey through Kagawa, Kochi, and Ehime Prefectures featuring art, culture, history, and nature! Visit Shikoku’s notable and popular attractions including Ritsurin Garden, Konpira Shrine, Kanamaruza Kabuki Theater, and Kochi Castle, explore the beautiful islands of Naoshima and Shodoshima, and get a glimpse into the awe-inspiring cultural heritage of the island. 

Tour Highlights

• Explore Kagawa, Kochi, and Ehime Prefectures in 7 days

• Take in the grandeur and beautiful scenic attractions of Shikoku

• Learn about Japan’s fascinating culture and rich history

• Visit Shikoku’s notable attractions including Ritsurin Garden, Konpira Shrine, Kanamaruza Kabuki Theater, and Kochi Castle

• Take a trip to Japan’s Art Island and appreciate exquisite works of art 

• Marvel at the breathtaking scenery of the Shodoshima Island

• Get an insight into the history, sacred sites, and nature of Shikoku Island

• Taste some of the island’s delightful local delicacies

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Takamatsu

Greet your driver at the designated pick up location, taking you to the hotel. Take time to freshen up before heading out to explore the city.

Stroll Around the Beautiful Ritsurin Garden

Take a leisure walk up to the picturesque Ritsurin Garden, one of the largest and most beautiful strolling gardens in Japan. Immerse yourself into the serene atmosphere as you enjoy the scenic beauty of Ritsurin Garden, with each step offering a refreshing perspective on the garden’s breathtaking scenery.

Visit the Impressive Takamatsu Castle

Head to the imposing Takamatsu Castle, also known as Tamomo Castle, to see one of the few Japanese castles built along a waterfront. Enjoy a serene walk around the castle complex, learn about the history of the castle through fascinating stories, and check out the interesting features of the castle including its saltwater moats that use water directly from the Seto Inland Sea.

Day 2

Explore the Lovely Naoshima Island

Start the day with a relaxing getaway to the charming Naoshima Island, Japan’s renowned art island in the Seto Inland Sea. Known for its contemporary art museums, modern architecture, and outdoor sculptures. Take in the sea breeze and laid back atmosphere while you explore one of the world’s most unique destinations. Spot the iconic Red Pumpkin (Akakabocha) artwork by the renowned Yayoi Kusama, explore the incredible Ando Museum to get an insight into Tadao Ando’s finest works taking a contemporary approach to the traditional architecture, check out the incredible collection of works of art at the Chichu Art Museum including some of the artworks by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria, and visit the impressive Benesse House Museum showcasing a beautiful integrations between nature, art, and architecture. 

Day 3

Appreciate the Scenic Beauty of Shodoshima Island

Begin the day with a journey to Shodoshima Island, one of the most popular destinations of Kagawa Prefecture. With plenty of charming attractions to offer, discover the island’s exquisite food culture, get an insight into its fascinating history, and marvel at its incredible spectrum of scenic landscapes. Take time to visit the fascinating Shodoshima Rice Paddy (Nakayama Senmaida), see the celebrated Kankakei Gorge, catch sight of several magnificent art pieces spread across the island, and discover some of the island’s traditional specialties such as soy sauce, somen noodles, and olives. 

Walk Along the Beautiful Angel Road

Admire the spectacular natural sight and enjoy a romantic walk across the picturesque Angel Road with your significant other. Climb up the Hill of Promises to ring the bell of love and declare your love to the world as well as enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. A popular spot for couples where romance is destined to come true, legend says that if you walk across Angel Road hand-in-hand with your partner, eternal love is said to be yours. Make sure to write your wishes on a wooden ema (votive tablet) and hang it on an islet tree. 

Day 4

Marvel at the Magnificent Konpira Shrine

Take an early morning visit to the spectacular Konpira Shrine. The largest Shinto Shrine Complex in Shikoku, also known as Kotohira-gu, is a shrine dedicated to sailors and seafaring. Feel the overwhelming peacefulness as you make your way to the shrine, offering amazing panoramic views of Kotohira. You can also check out several souvenir shops, restaurants, and a sake museum at the bottom of the path up to the shrine.

Visit the Ancient Kanamaruza Kabuki Theater

Continue to the beautifully preserved Kanamaruza Kabuki Theater, the oldest surviving, complete kabuki playhouse in Japan. Get a chance to explore the theater’s audience hall, stage, and dressing rooms as well as the basement to see how the human-powered rotating stage and trapdoors work.

Walk Around 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. 

Explore the Serene Chikurinji Temple

Immerse yourself into the tranquil atmosphere as you take a walk around Chikurinji Temple. See the highlights of the 31st Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage and unravel its magnificent cultural heritage featuring its great National Treasures. You will also discover how the temple was founded. 

Day 5

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. 

Experience the Ultimate Traditional Japanese Onsen

Head to Dogo, a historic area of Matsuyama known for the oldest onsen in Japan. Take time to rejuvenate after an exhausting day at a traditional Japanese onsen and take a dip in a mineral-rich, revitalizing traditional hot spring bath. A traditional Japanese luxury experience like no other! 

Day 6

Explore the Tranquil Ozu City

Take a break from the bustle and hustle of the tourist crowds and make your way through the beautiful city of Ozu. Known as the Little Kyoto of Iyo, take in the nostalgic charm of Kyoto in a countryside setting and travel back in time as you walk along the historical alleys packed with traditional houses. See the iconic Ozu Castle and marvel at its impressive traditional wooden construction techniques. You will also visit the rustic yet charming Garyu Sanso before returning to Matsuyama to enjoy free leisure time to explore the city.

Day 7

Depart from Matsuyama

Take a convenient transport to Matsuyama Station for your onward journey.

Inclusions

• 6 Nights Accommodation in High International Standard Hotel 

• Breakfast (6)

• 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.