Family Adventure on Shikoku Island

A Day of Cultural Immersion

Today was a vibrant tapestry of art, spirituality, and culinary delights woven together in the heart of Tokushima. Leaving our ryokan this morning, I felt a sense of anticipation for the experiences that lay ahead. Little did I know, today would be a feast for the senses, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for Shikoku's rich cultural heritage.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at イールファームのうなぎ家 (Iru Famu no Unagiya), or Eel Farm Unagi House. As someone who appreciates sustainable practices, I was intrigued by the concept of an eel farm restaurant. The unagi (eel) was grilled to perfection, with a smoky aroma and tender, flavorful meat. It was a delightful start to our day, setting the stage for the adventures ahead. Thandiwe was a bit hesitant at first, but she ended up enjoying the delicate flavors of the eel. David, ever the adventurous eater, savored every bite, proclaiming it one of the best meals he's had so far on this trip. I must admit, I felt a surge of pride introducing my family to such a unique and delicious aspect of Japanese cuisine.

Fueled and ready, we set off to explore the Otsuka Museum of Art. From the moment we stepped inside, I was awestruck by the sheer scale of the place. The museum boasts over 1,000 reproductions of Western masterpieces, meticulously recreated on ceramic boards. It was like embarking on a whirlwind tour of art history, encountering iconic works by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Van Gogh all under one roof.


Discover a world of art at the Otsuka Museum of Art, featuring stunning replicas of masterworks from the Western art tradition in scenic Naruto, Tokushima.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Thandiwe was particularly captivated by the Sistine Chapel replica, craning her neck to take in the awe-inspiring ceiling. David, with his background in history, was fascinated by the Villa dei Misteri from Pompeii. As we wandered through the museum's labyrinthine corridors, I couldn't help but marvel at the innovative approach to art preservation. The ceramic boards are designed to withstand the test of time, ensuring that these masterpieces will be enjoyed by generations to come. It's a testament to human ingenuity and a celebration of our shared cultural heritage. The museum is vast, and I'm glad we allocated a good chunk of our day to fully appreciate the collection.

Leaving the museum, we sought a change of pace and scenery at Umpenji Temple. Nestled high in the mountains, this temple offered a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Reaching the temple required a scenic drive followed by a calming walk through lush greenery. As we ascended, the air grew cooler, and the sounds of the city faded away, replaced by the gentle rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds. Umpenji Temple is the 66th temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, which is a testament to its historical and spiritual significance.


Discover Umpenji Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary in Tokushima, perfect for spiritual reflection and cultural immersion on your Shikoku journey.

Upon reaching the temple grounds, I was immediately struck by the sense of tranquility that permeated the air. The temple buildings, with their traditional architecture and weathered wood, exuded an aura of timelessness. We strolled through the grounds, admiring the intricate details of the temple structures and the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape. Thandiwe was fascinated by the stone statues of Buddha's disciples, each with its own unique expression. David, ever the contemplative one, found solace in the temple's peaceful atmosphere. I lit a stick of incense and offered a silent prayer for peace and well-being for my family and loved ones. The views from the temple were breathtaking, stretching out over the surrounding valleys and mountains. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way to 料理工房 蔵や (Ryouri Koubou Kuraya) for lunch. This charming restaurant offered a delightful array of local specialties, prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. We savored each dish, from the delicate sashimi to the hearty miso soup. The flavors were authentic and comforting, providing a true taste of Shikoku.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at 料理工房 蔵や in Kami, Kochi – a culinary journey that celebrates local ingredients and traditions.

With our appetites sated, we decided to explore the town a bit before dinner. We stumbled upon the Irish Pub Amontillado, and despite being in Japan, we couldn't resist the allure of a cozy pub atmosphere. The pub was warm and inviting, with friendly staff and a lively atmosphere. David and I enjoyed a pint of Guinness, while Thandiwe sipped on a refreshing soda. It was a fun and unexpected detour, a reminder that sometimes the best experiences are the ones you don't plan. According to some sources, the pub hosts Irish music nights, but unfortunately, there wasn't one tonight.


Discover the charm of Irish Pub Amontillado in Kochi, where traditional izakaya meets the warmth of Irish hospitality, offering a unique dining experience.

For dinner, we chose 座酒家 りぐる (Za Sakaba Riguru), a local izakaya known for its delicious food and lively ambiance. The restaurant was bustling with locals, creating a vibrant and authentic atmosphere. We sampled a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to fresh seafood, all expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. It was a true culinary adventure, a chance to experience the local flavors and culture.


Discover the essence of traditional Japanese dining at Izakaya Rigur in Tosa – where every meal tells a story.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Irish Pub Amontillado again. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff beckoned us back for one last drink before heading back to our accommodation. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with art, spirituality, and culinary delights. As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Shikoku. Tomorrow, we'll be venturing to the Kurushima Strait Observatory and Kochi Castle. I can't wait to see what new adventures await us!

I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Seeing Thandiwe's eyes light up as she gazed at the Sistine Chapel replica, and watching David find solace in the serene atmosphere of Umpenji Temple, filled my heart with joy. These are the moments that make travel so special, the memories that we will cherish for years to come. And as a Zimbabwean expat living in Canada, I feel a deep connection to my roots as I explore the world and share my experiences with others. Travel is not just about seeing new places, it's about connecting with different cultures and finding common ground with people from all walks of life. It's about expanding our horizons and opening our minds to new perspectives. And as I continue on this journey through Shikoku, I am excited to see what other discoveries await us.

The thought of the Shikoku Pilgrimage is never far from my mind as we explore this island. Perhaps one day I will return to walk the entire route, to fully immerse myself in the spiritual journey that has drawn pilgrims to this island for centuries. But for now, I am content to experience the pilgrimage in my own way, visiting select temples and reflecting on the deeper meaning of life.

As we prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. Shikoku has already exceeded my expectations, and I can't wait to see what other treasures this island has in store for us. I'm particularly excited about visiting Kochi Castle, one of Japan's original castles from the samurai era. And of course, I'm looking forward to trying more of the local cuisine, from the fresh seafood to the premium yuzu. It's these experiences that make travel so rewarding, the chance to discover new cultures and create lasting memories with my loved ones. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I am grateful for the opportunity to share these adventures with you, my readers. I hope that my stories inspire you to explore the world and discover the beauty and wonder that exists in every corner of the globe.