Shikoku
Literally meaning ‘four countries’, Shikoku consists of four prefectures and is the smallest of Japan’s major islands. Travellers completing the Shimanami Kaido cycle route from the mainland continue across Shikoku to the art islands of the Seto Inland Sea, but as a standalone destination it offers a glimpse of an older, slower-paced Japan. Its breathtaking, almost impenetrable, rural landscape is full of deep gorges, vine bridges, white water and forest. As a spiritual destination, the Shikoku Henro – a famous pilgrimage in reverence to the Bhuddist monk, Kobo Daishi – attracts a constant stream of visitors from Japan’s other islands.
Start planning your journey here...
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore.
Three things to do in Shikoku
Iya Valley
Japan is full of beautiful scenery, but finding somewhere accessible that’s truly free from overdevelopment can be tricky. However, the Iya Valley is just such a place. It’s so naturally inhospitable that it was the chosen refuge for the Genpei clan after their defeat in 1185, but a few modern roads now allow visitors to get to its deep mountain gorges, wild rivers and forested mountains. Like most places in Japan there are pockets of ever-progressing modernisation, but the overwhelming image is one of nature and tranquility. Find relaxation at one of the numerous, highly regarded ryokan, taking long soaks in the onsen, and enjoy adventurous hiking, white water rafting and canyoning down the rivers.
Takamatsu
After being catastrophically damaged during WW2, Takamatsu has been rebuilt as a smart, modern city and is historically the eastern gateway to the island. It’s worth making the journey here just for the stunningly peaceful Ritsurin Koen: one of the most serene gardens in all of Japan. It’s like something out of a Japanese fairy tale or, perhaps, how you might imagine arriving in the country in a dream. Impossibly picturesque red bridges curve between purple and white iris ponds, immaculate pavilions and the most idyllic tea house. Created, refined and perfected over hundreds of years, they are a chocolate box delight.
Art Islands
Between Shikoku and Honshu, surrounded by the Seto Inland Sea, is a cluster of tiny islands that, over the years, has become a living art project. The most famous of these is Naoshima, home of the famous arthouse accommodation, Benesse House, which itself is part of the canvas. Dotted around each of the islands are art installations, galleries, reclaimed spaces and museums, with more immersive pieces by world-renowned artists added every year. Hire bicycles to see it all over a few days, and make sure to allow plenty of time for relaxation and quiet contemplation. This group of islands has gained a glowing international reputation, and they are collectively considered one of Asia’s best travel experiences.
Explore more
(map box component)
Inspiring experiences and places to stay…
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
Start planning your journey here...
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore.
Talk to our expert team...
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor eiusmod tempor eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore etLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt.
The Selective Asia difference
-
Bespoke journeys tailored just for you
-
Unparalleled local knowledge and expertise
-
Award-winning, nose-to-tail service
-
Responsible travel
-
24 hour local support
-
Our flexi-booking promise and financial clarity
No ordinary Travel Company
For us, travel is one of life's great privileges — one that should never be taken for granted. It’s about taking things slow — giving yourself time for thoughtful curiosity. Time to immerse yourself in your destination, get closer to the ground, and feel your way to greater understanding.
Fully protected and flexible bookings
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam.
