Family Adventure on Shikoku Island

Finding Peace in Takamatsu's Treasures

Today was a beautiful blend of tranquility and cultural immersion here in Takamatsu. It's amazing how quickly you can fall in love with a place, especially when you're sharing it with your favorite people, Hans and Saoirse. We dove headfirst into the serene beauty of Ritsurin Garden and explored the charming historical tapestry of Shikoku Village. It’s days like these that remind me why we embarked on this adventure in the first place.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Ritsurin Garden, a historical gem in Takamatsu, showcasing Japan's exquisite landscape design and seasonal charm.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Okamura. I was excited to try this spot, having read about its cozy atmosphere and authentic Japanese cuisine. It was a great choice. The restaurant is run by a lovely couple and the chef has dedicated over 20 years to Japanese cuisine. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly steamed rice. Hans enjoyed a hearty portion of Tamago-kake-gohan (egg on rice), while Saoirse devoured her favorite, Yakizakana (grilled fish). It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. I felt like it gave us a real taste of the local cuisine right away, which is always a great way to start the day in a new place.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for Ritsurin Garden. This garden has been on my must-see list for ages, and it certainly didn't disappoint. As we stepped through the entrance, we were immediately transported to a world of meticulously manicured landscapes, serene ponds, and ancient trees. The garden is vast, boasting six ponds and thirteen landscaped hills, each offering a unique perspective and view.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

We strolled along the winding paths, admiring the carefully arranged stones, the perfectly pruned bonsai trees, and the vibrant colors of the koi swimming in the ponds. Saoirse was particularly fascinated by the carp, and we spent a good while feeding them from the shore. The garden is designed to showcase the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, with Mount Shiun providing a stunning backdrop. I could easily see why it is designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese government.

One of the highlights of Ritsurin Garden was the Kikugetsu-tei teahouse. We decided to partake in a traditional tea ceremony, which was a truly special experience. The tea was prepared with such precision and care, and the atmosphere was so peaceful and contemplative. It was a wonderful way to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the moment. I must admit, Saoirse found the whole thing a bit boring, but she perked up when we were offered traditional Japanese sweets to accompany the tea.

Leaving the tranquility of Ritsurin Garden, we headed to Shikoku Village. This open-air museum is a treasure trove of traditional buildings and structures that have been relocated from all over Shikoku Island. It felt like stepping back in time as we wandered through farmhouses, storehouses, and workshops, each telling a story of the island's rich cultural heritage. Saoirse was intrigued by the sugar and soy sauce workshops, marveling at the ingenuity of the traditional methods used to produce these staples. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the intricate construction of the buildings, pointing out the clever use of materials and the remarkable craftsmanship.


Explore the enchanting Shikoku Village, an open-air museum in Takamatsu, where tradition meets nature in a captivating cultural experience.

One of the most popular attractions in Shikoku Village is the vine suspension bridge. Of course, we had to cross it. It was a bit nerve-wracking, as the bridge swayed gently with each step, but the views from the middle were absolutely worth it. Saoirse squealed with delight as she carefully made her way across, giggling at the slightly precarious feeling. It reminded me of the Vine Bridge in the Iya Valley, which we plan to visit tomorrow. I’m really looking forward to seeing the real thing after this little preview.

After immersing ourselves in history and culture, we were ready for a late lunch. We stopped at Tataki Kobo, a local restaurant known for its authentic Japanese regional cuisine. I opted for the Katsuo no Tataki (seared bonito), a local specialty that I had been eager to try. The fish was incredibly fresh and flavorful, perfectly seared on the outside and tender on the inside. Hans enjoyed a hearty bowl of Sanuki Udon, the famous thick noodles from this region. Saoirse, predictably, chose the tempura, happily munching on crispy shrimp and vegetables.


Discover authentic flavors at Tataki Kobo in Kochi—a must-visit Japanese regional restaurant showcasing local culinary delights.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to do a bit of shopping. We stopped by Shikoku Shop 88, a souvenir store offering a wide range of local products from all four prefectures of Shikoku. It was a great place to pick up some mementos of our trip. I bought some Sanuki Udon noodles to take back to Berlin, while Hans found a beautiful piece of Kagawa lacquerware. Saoirse, of course, chose a selection of colorful Japanese candies. We even sampled some of the gelato in rare flavors like olive, wasanbon, and soy bean. It was a delicious and unique treat.


Explore Shikoku Shop 88 for unique souvenirs and local delicacies that embody the spirit of Takamatsu and the Shikoku region.

For dinner, we decided to try Dining Room Hibari, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Japanese cuisine. I had read rave reviews about their Katsudon, so I knew I had to try it. The portion sizes were generous and the food was delicious. It was the perfect way to end a long day of exploring. We sat in comfortable silence, enjoying the delicious food and reflecting on the wonderful experiences we had shared throughout the day.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Dining Room Hibari in Otoyo - home to the best katsudon experience!

As the day winds down, I can't help but feel grateful for these moments. Exploring new places with my family is such a rewarding experience, and I am so excited for what tomorrow holds. We are heading to the Iya Valley, where we will explore the famous Vine Bridge and immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of this remote region. I have a feeling it will be another day filled with unforgettable memories. I'm particularly excited about visiting the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore. It will be fascinating to delve deeper into the history and traditions of this area. I am also looking forward to trying some local cuisine at Ombelico, the restaurant we have chosen for lunch. I have heard they offer a unique culinary experience, and I am always eager to try new flavors.

Tomorrow, we’ll be venturing into the heart of Shikoku, to the Iya Valley. I’m particularly excited about seeing the Vine Bridge, and learning more about the local history at the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore. I've heard the scenery is simply breathtaking, and I can't wait to share it with you all!

“The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.” I think this sums up our day perfectly. Each experience, from the serene gardens to the bustling shops, has added another layer to our understanding and appreciation of Shikoku Island. It's more than just seeing the sights; it's about connecting with the culture and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Until tomorrow,
Aoife.