Family Adventure on Shikoku Island: Exploring Japan's Hidden Gem

A Day Steeped in History and Scenery

Today was a day of contrasts, seamlessly blending the serene beauty of Shikoku's landscapes with the rich tapestry of its history. As a librarian with a penchant for historical archives, I was particularly excited about today's itinerary, and it didn't disappoint. Traveling with Hans and Sofia always adds a special dimension to our adventures, and today was no exception.

Our day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Korean Restaurant and Kimchi Shop Kyongbok Palace. I know, it sounds a bit odd to have Korean food in Japan, but the fusion was surprisingly delightful! Sofia especially loved the kimchi, which she declared was 'spicy but yummy'. With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we set off to explore the historical treasures of Shikoku.

Our first stop was the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore, and it was like stepping back in time. The museum is housed in a beautifully preserved Edo-period building that once belonged to a descendant of Horikawa Naiki, a physician who served the infant Emperor Antoku after the Heike clan's defeat. As we wandered through the rooms, I was captivated by the displays of ancient armor, flags, and historical documents. Sofia was particularly fascinated by an 800-year-old tree in the garden, imagining all the stories it could tell. The museum is a tangible cultural property of Miyoshi City, with the thatched-roof main house and storehouse built in 1867 still preserved in their original state.


Explore the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore, where the intriguing tales of Japan's Heike clan come alive through captivating exhibits and serene surroundings.

History is not just a collection of dates and names; it's a living narrative that shapes our present and inspires our future.

I felt a profound connection to the past as I examined the artifacts, imagining what life must have been like for those who lived in this remote mountain residence. The Heike clan's story is one of resilience and adaptation, and it was truly inspiring to learn about their legacy. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was impressed by the architecture of the building and the ingenuity of the design, which has allowed it to withstand the test of time.

After immersing ourselves in history, we were ready for a change of scenery. We drove towards the coast, eager to experience the natural beauty that Shikoku is famous for. Lunch was a quick and casual affair at Joyfull Kochi Otsu Shop, a family restaurant where we enjoyed some local specialties. Sofia was thrilled with her ramen, while Hans and I savored the fresh seafood.


Enjoy a diverse menu at Joyfull Kochi Otsu Shop, where family-friendly dining meets affordable prices in the heart of Kochi.

Our afternoon was dedicated to the Kurushima Strait Observatory, located in Itoyama Park, and the views were nothing short of spectacular. As we approached the observatory, the iconic Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge came into view, a marvel of modern engineering that spans the turbulent waters of the Seto Inland Sea. The observatory itself offers a 360-degree panorama of the strait, with its swirling currents, lush islands, and distant mountains.


Panoramic views of the Kurushima Strait and Bridge, a perfect stop on the Shimanami Kaido cycling route in Imabari, Ehime.

I was mesmerized by the sheer scale of the bridge and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Kurushima Strait is known for its rapid currents, among the fastest in Japan, and it was thrilling to watch the ships navigating the waterways. Sofia, always curious, peppered us with questions about the bridge's construction and the history of the strait. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the bridge's design and the challenges of building such a massive structure in this dynamic environment.

We spent a good hour at the observatory, soaking in the views and taking countless photos. The air was fresh and clean, and the sun was shining, making it a perfect day to be outdoors. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such beauty with my family. It's moments like these that make all the planning and preparation worthwhile.

Before heading back to our ryokan, we made a quick stop at Plugs Market Kochi Store. It was an interesting experience, browsing through the various products unique to Japan. Sofia was particularly drawn to the stationery, while Hans was interested in the tools and materials for DIY projects. I picked up a few small souvenirs for friends back home in Bonn, little reminders of our adventure in Shikoku.


Explore the vibrant Plugs Market Kochi Store for unique gifts, trendy cosmetics, and eclectic home goods in the heart of Kochi.

Dinner was at Yoronotaki Gomenten, a lively izakaya where we enjoyed a variety of Japanese dishes. The atmosphere was festive and welcoming, and we felt like we were truly immersed in the local culture. Sofia, emboldened by her earlier culinary success, even tried some sushi, much to our amusement.


Discover the charm of traditional Japanese izakaya dining at Yoronotaki Gomenten in Nankoku, Kochi - where flavor meets culture.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. We've explored history, witnessed breathtaking scenery, and shared laughter and joy as a family. These are the moments that make travel so rewarding.

Tomorrow, we're venturing into the heart of Shikoku to explore the Todoroki Falls and the Shikoku Karst. I've heard that the falls are stunning, and the karst landscape is unlike anything I've ever seen. We'll also be stopping by Bar Salvador for a nightcap, something I'm very much looking forward to! I'm excited to see what adventures await us tomorrow, and I can't wait to share them with you all. Until then, sayōnara!

P.S. I almost forgot! I found a local conference being held in Kochi focused on wedding and MICE tourism. It's fascinating to see how different regions are promoting themselves and attracting visitors.