Family Adventure on Shikoku Island

Day 1: Diving into Naruto's Natural Wonders

After months of planning and dreaming, our family adventure on Shikoku Island has finally begun! The journey here was a bit of a trek, flying from Berlin to Tokyo and then making our way to Tokushima. Saoirse was a little restless on the planes, but the excitement of exploring a new place kept her spirits high. Hans, ever the pragmatist, made sure we had all our travel documents in order and navigated the train stations like a pro. I, of course, armed with my trusty camera and a heart full of anticipation, was ready to soak in every moment of this cultural immersion.

Our first day was dedicated to experiencing the famed Naruto Whirlpools, a natural phenomenon I'd been eager to witness for years. After a quick freshening up, we headed straight for Naruto Park, the gateway to these swirling wonders. The August sun was warm, but a gentle breeze kept the air pleasant, perfect for exploring.


Discover the breathtaking Naruto Whirlpools in Tokushima, Japan, where natural forces create stunning tidal whirlpools and scenic beauty.

Before diving into the whirlpool adventure, we needed to fuel up. Hattorikun was our chosen spot for breakfast, a cozy little restaurant with a local vibe. The machine ticket system was a fun novelty, and we quickly figured out how to order. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. It was a delightful start, setting the tone for a day of cultural immersion. Hans enjoyed a hearty bowl of Udon, while Saoirse, ever adventurous, tried some Tamagoyaki (sweet egg omelette) and loved it!


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Hattorikun in Nankoku – where Italy meets Japan in every delicious bite.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we made our way to the Tokushima Prefectural Uzu-no-Michi Walkway, a glass-floored corridor suspended beneath the Onaruto Bridge. The walkway stretches for nearly 500 meters, offering stunning views of the Naruto Straits and the swirling whirlpools below.


Explore the breathtaking Uzu-no-Michi Walkway in Tokushima, a scenic spot offering stunning views of the Naruto Strait and its famous whirlpools.

Sometimes, the most extraordinary experiences are found in the most unexpected places.

Walking along the Uzu-no-Michi Walkway was an exhilarating experience. The wind whipped around us as we watched the water surge and churn, a truly unforgettable sight. Saoirse was a bit apprehensive at first, peering cautiously through the glass floor, but she soon got the hang of it, pointing out the swirling patterns and shapes in the water. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the bridge's construction and the sheer force of the water beneath us. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the power of nature, a reminder of how small we are in the grand scheme of things.

After the exhilarating experience of the whirlpools, it was time for lunch. We headed to Restaurant Obokekyo Mannaka, a spot known for its local dishes and scenic views of the Oboke Gorge. The restaurant also uses a machine ticket system, which Saoirse found endlessly amusing. I decided to try their Iya Soba, a local buckwheat noodle dish. The noodles had a distinct earthy flavor, perfectly complemented by the savory broth and fresh toppings. Hans went for a set meal featuring Awa beef, a local delicacy, while Saoirse enjoyed some tempura. The view of the gorge from the restaurant added to the overall ambiance, making it a pleasant midday break.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Restaurant Obokekyo Mannaka in Miyoshi - a hidden gem offering traditional dishes in a cozy setting.

With our appetite sated, we dedicated some time to exploring Minami-Shinmachi Shopping Street. This bustling street is a hub of local shops and eateries, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of Tokushima. Saoirse was immediately drawn to a small shop selling traditional Japanese sweets, while Hans browsed a local craft store. I picked up some local crafts and snacks, perfect for sharing with friends back in Berlin. It's always a joy to bring back a piece of the places I visit, a tangible reminder of the experiences we can later reminisce about as a family.


Minami-Shinmachi Shopping Street: A vibrant shopping destination in Takamatsu with local boutiques, delicious dining, and cultural experiences.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Yuzuan Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is known for its Shabu-shabu, sushi, and tempura. After a long day of exploration, the idea of a relaxing and satisfying meal was incredibly appealing. I opted for the all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu course, eager to sample a variety of fresh ingredients. The thinly sliced meat and assortment of vegetables were a delight to cook in the simmering broth, and the dipping sauces added layers of flavor. Hans enjoyed a selection of fresh sushi, while Saoirse indulged in some crispy tempura. It was the perfect way to end a day of adventure, savoring the tastes of Shikoku in a warm and inviting setting.


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

Reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and culinary delights of Naruto. The whirlpools were a sight to behold, the Uzu-no-Michi Walkway a thrilling experience, and the local cuisine a true delight. It's moments like these, shared with my family, that make travel so rewarding. As we head back to our Ryokan for a well-deserved rest, I can't help but feel excited about what tomorrow holds. We'll be heading to Takamatsu to explore the stunning Ritsurin Garden and the fascinating Shikoku Village. I'm particularly looking forward to experiencing the traditional arts and crafts of the region, and Saoirse is already excited about the prospect of feeding the koi in the garden.

But before I drift off to sleep, I must share a funny anecdote from today. While we were at Minami-Shinmachi Shopping Street, Saoirse spotted a Ghibli store and, being a huge fan of Studio Ghibli films, she dragged us inside. She was so excited that she accidentally bumped into a display of Totoro figurines, sending them tumbling to the floor! Thankfully, none of them broke, but the shop assistant gave us a rather stern look. Saoirse, bless her heart, apologized profusely in her best (albeit limited) Japanese, which only made the situation funnier. We ended up buying a small Totoro plushie as a souvenir, a reminder of our little mishap and Saoirse's adorable attempt at speaking the local language. I must remember to practice Japanese with her more!

Also I almost forgot to mention, it appears we have arrived in Tokushima just in time for the start of the Awa Odori Festival, which starts tomorrow ! It is one of Japan's most famous summer dance festivals and I have heard it is quite the spectacle. I am hoping we will have time to take in some of the performances while we are here. It would be a wonderful opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions firsthand.

Goodnight from Shikoku! I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all tomorrow!