Family Adventure on Shikoku Island

Saying Goodbye to Shikoku

As our two-week adventure on Shikoku Island draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of contentment and a tinge of sadness. This final day was a perfect encapsulation of everything that made this trip so special: breathtaking scenery, a deep dive into Japanese history, and, of course, delicious food. Hans, Saoirse and I packed as much as we could into our last day, creating memories that I know we'll cherish for years to come.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yuzuan Restaurant. I had read some great reviews about their shabu-shabu and sushi , and we were eager to try it out. It turned out to be the perfect start to a busy day. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the staff incredibly kind, and the food was simply divine. Saoirse particularly enjoyed the sushi, while Hans and I savored the shabu-shabu, a delightful hot pot dish where we cooked thinly sliced meats and fresh vegetables in a simmering broth. It was a delicious and interactive experience, and definitely set the tone for a day of culinary exploration.


Discover the essence of Kochi through authentic Japanese dishes at Yuzuan Restaurant—where every meal tells a story.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to our first destination: the Kurushima Strait Observatory. The drive itself was stunning, with winding roads offering glimpses of the sparkling sea. The Observatory is located in Itoyama Park. As we approached, the iconic Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge came into full view. The views from the observatory were simply breathtaking. The swirling currents of the Kurushima Strait below, combined with the architectural marvel of the bridge, created a panorama that felt both powerful and serene.


Experience the stunning views at Kurushima Strait Observatory, an essential stop for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts in Imabari, Japan.

Travel is not about the destination, but the connections you make along the way.

We spent a good hour there, taking photos and simply soaking in the scenery. Saoirse was fascinated by the rapid tides, while Hans, ever the engineer, was captivated by the bridge's construction. There was even a small museum inside the observatory, which explained how the bridge was built. It was fascinating to learn about the engineering feats that made this structure possible. I was glad we made the short climb/hike to Itoyama observation deck, as it offered the best view. We learned that the Itoyama Observatory is known as a holy land for bicycle riders.

Leaving the observatory, we headed towards Kochi to see the Statues of the Three Tosa Samurai. Kochi is known as the home of Ryoma Sakamoto. These statues, located in front of Kochi Station, pay homage to Hanpeita Takechi, Ryoma Sakamoto, and Shintaro Nakaoka, three samurai who played pivotal roles in Japan's modernization. Standing before these imposing figures, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for their courage and vision. Saoirse, who has been learning about Japanese history in school, was particularly interested in hearing about their stories. We learned that Ryoma helped to repair relations between Choshu and Satsuma. It was a great way to reflect on the rich history of the region and the impact these men had on the country.


Discover the legacy of the Three Tosa Samurai in Kochi, where history, culture, and artistry converge in stunning statues.

For lunch, we had a delightful experience at Cooking Studio Kura. I was excited to try a cooking class that uses local ingredients. This was a unique opportunity to learn about Japanese home cooking from Saori Matsuzaki. Saori had spent time in Berlin, working as a private chef, and she introduced Japanese home cooking to foreigners. We prepared a traditional Japanese meal using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the local area. Saori was a wonderful teacher, sharing her knowledge of Japanese cuisine and culture with enthusiasm. It was fascinating to learn about the different flavors and techniques involved in creating authentic Japanese dishes. Saoirse was a natural in the kitchen, while Hans, despite his initial hesitation, quickly got into the swing of things. By the end of the class, we had created a delicious meal that we all enjoyed together. It was a truly immersive and rewarding experience, and one that I know we'll try to replicate back in Berlin.

As evening approached, we made our way to Tosa Rokkon for our farewell dinner. This restaurant came highly recommended for its authentic Japanese cuisine and dedication to local ingredients. The atmosphere was elegant yet welcoming, and the staff were incredibly attentive. We indulged in a multi-course meal featuring the freshest seafood, locally grown vegetables, and expertly prepared meats. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. We savored every bite, knowing that this was our last taste of Shikoku's culinary delights for now. The chef clearly took pride in sourcing ingredients from local markets.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Tosa Rokkon in Kami, Kochi - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

After dinner, we decided to cap off our trip with a visit to Bar Kohno. I had read about their impressive selection of whiskies and their creative cocktails made with local citrus fruits. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on our incredible journey. The bar had a welcoming and cozy atmosphere. Hans enjoyed a glass of Japanese whisky, while I opted for a refreshing cocktail made with local Tokushima citrus. Saoirse, of course, stuck to non-alcoholic options, but she enjoyed the lively atmosphere and the friendly banter with the bartender. It was a fitting end to a day filled with memorable experiences.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Tokushima at Bar Kohno, where excellent drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.

As we prepare to leave Shikoku tomorrow, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared as a family. From exploring ancient temples to hiking scenic trails to savoring delicious cuisine, this island has captured our hearts in a way that I never expected. I'm already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us.

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip, and we will be heading back home. It's always a bittersweet moment, leaving behind a place that has become so familiar and beloved. But I know that we'll carry the memories of Shikoku with us, and that we'll always cherish the time we spent together as a family on this beautiful island.