Family Adventure on Shikoku Island

Whispers of Yokai and Ancient Lore

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Shikoku's Iya Valley, a region steeped in myth and brimming with stories of old Japan. It felt like stepping back in time, not just through the historical sites we visited, but also through the warm, welcoming spirit of the local people. Thandiwe was especially excited, her eyes wide with wonder as we explored the day's adventures.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at マムズキッチン mom's kitchen. The name itself, 'Mom's Kitchen,' promised a comforting start, and it delivered in spades. It reminded me of the small, family-run eateries back in Gweru, Zimbabwe, where the food is made with so much love you can taste it in every bite. David opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Thandiwe, ever the adventurous eater, chose a mini version of the same. I enjoyed a comforting bowl of miso soup and some perfectly grilled fish. It was the perfect fuel for our day of exploration. The restaurant had a warm, homey feel, with the staff making us feel like part of their family. It's these small, authentic experiences that truly make a trip memorable.

From there, we ventured into the realm of the supernatural at the Yokai House. Now, I've always been fascinated by folklore, and Japanese Yokai (spirits and monsters) are particularly intriguing. The Yokai House, despite its name, is part of a roadside station, which was quite a surprise. Thandiwe was a little apprehensive at first, but the museum turned out to be more whimsical than scary. The displays were well-arranged, offering a glimpse into the legends and stories that have been passed down through generations. I appreciated the English signs that helped us understand the exhibits. It was a fun and educational experience for all of us. I learned about various Yokai, their origins, and the roles they play in Japanese culture. Thandiwe was particularly taken with the mischievous Kappa, a water spirit known for its love of cucumbers. We even picked up a Kappa plushie in the gift shop as a souvenir. I think this will be a great story for her to tell her classmates back in Stratford.


Discover the enchanting world of Yokai House in Miyoshi, Tokushima, where Japanese folklore comes alive through captivating exhibits and rich heritage.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

Next on our itinerary was the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore. This museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Heike clan, a noble family that sought refuge in the Iya Valley centuries ago. The museum itself is a beautifully preserved traditional house, dating back to 1867. As we stepped inside, it felt like we were transported back in time. The house was filled with antiques and relics, each telling a story of a bygone era. I was particularly drawn to the Gassho-zukuri attic, its dark luster a testament to nearly 200 years of history. It reminded me of the importance of preserving our own heritage, of keeping the stories of our ancestors alive. Thandiwe was fascinated by the traditional irori floor hearth, imagining what it must have been like to live in such a house centuries ago. The garden surrounding the house was equally enchanting, with ancient trees that have stood for over 800 years. It was a peaceful, serene space, perfect for reflecting on the history and culture we had just experienced.


Explore the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore, a treasure trove of history and culture nestled in Miyoshi, Tokushima, revealing tales of the legendary Heike clan.

For lunch, we stopped at ビスタリ食堂. This charming cafe is housed in a renovated traditional building, offering a delightful mix of atmosphere and good food. The cafe had a cozy, welcoming vibe, and the menu featured local specialties. David and I both opted for the set lunch, which included a variety of small dishes, each bursting with flavor. Thandiwe chose a simpler pasta dish. The food was fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented. I particularly enjoyed the tofu pudding with brown sugar syrup and soybean flour for dessert. It was the perfect sweet ending to a wonderful meal.


Experience authentic Japanese dining at Bistari Shokudo in Nankoku - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to unwind with a drink at Bar Salvador. The bar had a lively, eclectic atmosphere, with music and friendly staff. I enjoyed a glass of local sake, while David sampled some Japanese whiskey. Thandiwe, of course, stuck to juice. It was a great way to relax and reflect on the day's adventures. The bar's ambiance was fun and relaxed. It was a nice change of pace after a day of historical and cultural exploration.


Discover Bar Salvador in Kochi: A charming bar with a vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

For dinner, we chose 十万十. This restaurant came highly recommended for its local cuisine, and it did not disappoint. We wanted to try some authentic dishes from the region. The restaurant had a warm, inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. We started with some local appetizers, including grilled river fish and mountain vegetables. For our main courses, David chose a hearty meat dish, while I opted for a vegetarian curry. Thandiwe, as always, was happy with a simple bowl of rice and some grilled chicken. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. It was the perfect way to end our day of culinary exploration.


Immerse yourself in authentic Japanese culture at 十万十, where traditional izakaya meets modern culinary excellence.

“Travel is more than seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.”

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. The Iya Valley has a way of captivating you, of drawing you into its rich history and culture. It's a place where the past and present intertwine, where the stories of old Japan come alive. And it's a place where the people are warm, welcoming, and eager to share their traditions with you. I feel like I have a deeper understanding of Japan, its people, and its culture. And I'm excited to continue our journey tomorrow, as we head to Ōboke Gorge and Umpenji Temple. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the gorge, as I've heard it's a stunning natural wonder. I am also intrigued by the Umpenji Temple, as I'm always interested in learning about different religions and spiritual practices. I know that tomorrow will bring new adventures, new discoveries, and new memories. And I can't wait to share them with you all. I am also planning to do some shopping at Island Mishima, as I want to bring back some souvenirs for my friends and family back in Canada. It's always nice to share a piece of your travels with those you love.

This trip to Shikoku Island has been a wonderful opportunity to connect with my family, to explore a new culture, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. As an expat living in Canada, it's important for me to stay connected to my roots, to share my heritage with my daughter, and to learn about new cultures. Travel is a way for me to do all of these things. And I'm so grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with you all through this blog. I hope that my stories inspire you to travel, to explore, and to learn about the world around you. Remember, every journey, no matter how big or small, has the potential to change you, to broaden your horizons, and to make you a more compassionate and understanding person. So go out there, explore the world, and create your own stories. And don't forget to share them with others!