Family Adventure on Shikoku Island

Day 1: Riding the Whirlwinds of Naruto

Our Shikoku adventure has officially begun, and what a start it has been! Today was all about witnessing the raw power of nature and immersing ourselves in the beauty of this island. From swirling whirlpools to savory local flavors, the day was packed with unforgettable experiences.

The journey began early, with a hearty breakfast at Hattorikun. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. Thandiwe was particularly excited, her eyes wide with anticipation of what lay ahead. David and I were equally eager, ready to embrace the wonders of Shikoku.

Our main destination for the morning was the famed Naruto Whirlpools. I had read about them, of course, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer spectacle of these swirling masses of water. The Naruto Strait, a narrow channel between Shikoku and Awaji Island, is where the Seto Inland Sea meets the Pacific Ocean, creating these impressive whirlpools. We learned that the best time to witness them is during high and low tides, when the currents are at their strongest. And spring is an ideal time to visit.


Discover the breathtaking Naruto Whirlpools in Tokushima, Japan, where natural forces create stunning tidal whirlpools and scenic beauty.
We opted for the Tokushima Prefectural Uzu-no-Michi Walkway, a 450-meter-long pedestrian path built beneath the Onaruto Bridge. Walking along this walkway, suspended 45 meters above the sea, was an experience in itself. Through the sturdy glass floor panels, we watched the whirlpools form and spin with incredible force. The views were simply breathtaking, offering a panoramic perspective of the swirling eddies and the vast ocean beyond. Thandiwe was thrilled, pointing out the different shapes and sizes of the whirlpools, her laughter echoing through the walkway.


Discover the mesmerizing Uzu-no-Michi Walkway, where stunning views of the Naruto Whirlpools and lush landscapes await every visitor.

The force of nature is a spectacle to behold, a reminder of the power and beauty that surrounds us.

After the exhilarating experience at Uzu-no-Michi Walkway, we took some time to explore the Shikoku Shop 88. It was a great opportunity to pick up some local souvenirs and gifts for friends back home. I found a beautiful piece of Awa-shijira fabric, a traditional Tokushima textile known for its unique crinkled texture. It will serve as a wonderful reminder of our time here.


Explore Shikoku Shop 88 for unique souvenirs and local delicacies that embody the spirit of Takamatsu and the Shikoku region.
Lunch was at Restaurant Obokekyo Mannaka, nestled in the stunning Oboke Gorge. The restaurant offered a delightful menu of local specialties. I decided to try the Iya Soba, a regional noodle dish made with buckwheat flour. The noodles had a distinct, earthy flavor, and the broth was rich and savory. David opted for a seafood dish, savoring the freshness of the local catch. Thandiwe, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by trying a bit of everything! The reviews I had read were spot on; the food was delicious, and the view of the gorge was simply mesmerizing.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Restaurant Obokekyo Mannaka in Miyoshi - a hidden gem offering traditional dishes in a cozy setting.
In the afternoon, we took a leisurely stroll through Naruto Park, enjoying the beautiful scenery and the fresh sea air. The park offers several walking trails and viewpoints, providing different perspectives of the Naruto Strait and the Onaruto Bridge. We even considered taking a sightseeing boat tour to get a closer look at the whirlpools, but decided to save that for another time. Instead, we relaxed at the Senjojiki Observatory, taking in the panoramic views and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

As evening approached, we made our way to Tataki Kobo for dinner. This restaurant specializes in tataki, a local dish where meat or fish is lightly seared. We tried the katsuo no tataki (seared bonito), a Kochi specialty, and it was absolutely divine. The smoky flavor of the seared fish, combined with the fresh ginger and soy sauce, was a culinary delight. Thandiwe, surprisingly, loved it too, devouring her portion with gusto.


Discover authentic flavors at Tataki Kobo in Kochi—a must-visit Japanese regional restaurant showcasing local culinary delights.
Reflecting on our first day, I am filled with a sense of excitement and gratitude. Shikoku Island has already captivated us with its natural beauty and culinary delights. The Naruto Whirlpools were truly a sight to behold, a testament to the power of nature. And the local cuisine has been a delightful journey for our taste buds. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings, as we venture towards Matsuyama and the famed Dogo Onsen. I’ve heard whispers of the enchanting Matsuyama Castle and can’t wait to explore it. The thought of unwinding in the Dogo Onsen Main Building after a day of sightseeing is also incredibly appealing.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen, hoping to immerse ourselves in the history and relaxation that Ehime Prefecture offers. I am particularly looking forward to experiencing the Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest and most famous hot springs. I've packed my yukata and am ready for a soothing soak in its legendary waters.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a deep connection to this island and its people. The warmth and hospitality we have experienced today have been truly heartwarming. I am excited to continue our journey, to explore more of Shikoku's hidden gems, and to share our experiences with you all. Until tomorrow, tot ziens from Shikoku!

Maybe we will even get to see a Ninja !