Family Adventure on Shikoku Island

A Day of Contrasts
Today was a day of striking contrasts, a journey from the raw, untamed beauty of nature to the vibrant, heartwarming world of childhood imagination. Shikoku Island continues to surprise and enchant us with its diverse offerings, and I'm thrilled to share our experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hakkenden Nankoku Osone in Nankoku. The restaurant had a Showa retro atmosphere. We enjoyed authentic charcoal-grilled yakitori. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. Saoirse was particularly excited about the Anpanman Museum, but even she agreed that starting with a bit of nature was a good idea. I managed to leave my raincoat at our accommodation, but thankfully, the weather forecast looked promising, with mostly sunny skies predicted. Hans, ever the pragmatist, reminded me that forgetting things is just part of the adventure, a sentiment I'm slowly starting to embrace.

The Emerald Depths of Ōboke Gorge

Our first stop was the majestic Ōboke Gorge. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a panorama of rugged cliffs and lush greenery. The Yoshino River snaked through the gorge, its waters a mesmerizing emerald green. It was a view that immediately took my breath away. The air was fresh and clean, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. The sun was shining, highlighting the colors of the rocks and water.


Discover the stunning vistas and thrilling adventures at Ōboke Gorge, Tokushima's hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
We decided to take a sightseeing boat tour to fully appreciate the gorge's beauty. As the boat glided along the river, we were surrounded by towering rock formations, some dating back to the Jurassic period. It was incredible to think that dinosaurs might have once roamed this very area ! The geological formations, a mix of crystalline schist and metamorphic rocks, created swirling patterns that made me feel like I had stepped into a psychedelic dream. Hans, always the geologist at heart, was in his element, pointing out various rock types and explaining their formation to Saoirse. She, in turn, peppered him with questions, her curiosity piqued by the ancient landscape.

The gorge wasn't just about rocks and water; it was teeming with life. Although we didn't spot any of the giant salamanders that call these waters home, we did see several birds flitting about the treetops. I'm no expert, but I suspect some of them were rare Japanese species. I was warned that Ōboke Gorge is raw, rugged nature at its finest. Some days, especially if it's rainy or overcast, it might not look as picture-perfect as those glossy tourist brochures. But that's part of its charm. It's real, it's alive, and it's always changing.

The true magic of a place reveals itself when you slow down and pay attention to the details.

After the boat tour, we took a short hike along one of the gorge's trails. The path was a bit slippery in places, but the views were worth the effort. We paused at a scenic overlook, where we could see the river winding its way through the mountains. The scale of the landscape was humbling, a reminder of the power and beauty of nature. I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me, a feeling that's becoming increasingly rare in our busy lives back in Berlin.

Lunch with a Local Flair

By lunchtime, we were all ravenous. We stopped at Biztari Shokudo, a local eatery, for a taste of authentic Shikoku cuisine. The restaurant was simple and unpretentious, but the food was delicious. I opted for a set meal featuring local vegetables and grilled fish, while Hans went for a hearty bowl of ramen. Saoirse, predictably, chose the kids' meal, which came with a miniature Anpanman-shaped rice ball. It was a small detail, but it brought a huge smile to her face, foreshadowing our next destination.


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

A Nostalgic Journey to Anpanman's World

Our afternoon was dedicated to the Kami City Takashi Yanase Memorial Hall & Anpanman Museum. As we approached, the museum's colorful facade was visible. Saoirse was practically vibrating with excitement. For those unfamiliar, Anpanman is a beloved Japanese superhero whose head is made of anpan, a sweet bean-filled pastry. Created by Takashi Yanase, Anpanman has been a cultural icon for decades, capturing the hearts of children (and adults) with his unwavering kindness and courage.


Explore the enchanting world of Anpanman at the Kami City Takashi Yanase Memorial Hall & Anpanman Museum, a joyful experience for families and fans alike.
The museum is a tribute to Yanase's life and work, showcasing his original artwork, picture books, and character designs. The fourth-floor gallery had exhibits of original artwork for picture books and large tableaus featuring Anpanman painted by Yanase Takashi himself. The underground Anpanman World featured dioramas reproducing the streetscapes of the town where Anpanman and his friends live. The adjacent Poetry and Fairy Tales Picture Book Museum displays the original cover art of the magazine Poetry and Fairy Tales, which Yanase Song served as editor-in-chief, as well as other works created by Yanase except Anpanman. I found myself swept up in the nostalgia, remembering watching Anpanman with my younger siblings back in Ireland. It was heartwarming to see Saoirse experiencing the same joy and wonder that I had felt as a child.

The museum wasn't just about looking at exhibits; it was an interactive experience. Saoirse had a blast playing in the Anpanman-themed play area, posing for photos with Anpanman characters, and even participating in a mini-theater show. Hans, despite his initial skepticism, couldn't help but smile as he watched Saoirse's unbridled enthusiasm. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones that allow you to reconnect with your inner child.

Evening Reflections and Tomorrow's Adventures

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to a delicious dinner at Japanese Cuisine Shiba in Kochi. The restaurant offered a cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed a variety of meat skewers including beef tongue, smoked pork belly, boneless short rib, and minced chicken with shiso. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. Later, Hans and I ventured out for a nightcap at Bar Kohno. The bar has provided a welcoming and cozy atmosphere for 24 years. They have a selection of around 1,000 different whiskies, as well as popular cocktails made with local Tokushima citrus and fruits. It was a delightful end to a day filled with contrasts and discoveries.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Tokushima at Bar Kohno, where excellent drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Tomorrow, we're heading to Kochi Castle and the Kochi Sunday Market. I'm particularly excited to explore the market, hoping to find some unique souvenirs and sample local delicacies. I also heard that the Yosakoi Festival is held in Kochi every August. It is a dance festival with a unique Japanese influence. It sounds like a vibrant and energetic event, and I'm hoping we'll get a chance to experience it firsthand. For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure on Shikoku Island. I'm not sure what tomorrow will bring, but I know it will be filled with new experiences and unforgettable memories.