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

A Day of Serenity and History

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the soothing warmth of ancient traditions with a fascinating glimpse into Japan's rural past. Shikoku Island continues to enchant me with its unique blend of history and tranquility, and I couldn't wait to share our experiences.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Yuzuan Restaurant. This sushi and shabu-shabu restaurant was the perfect start to the day. I enjoyed the delicious meal with Hans and Sofia, and we were energized for the day ahead. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home as we enjoyed a variety of dishes. Sofia especially loved the sushi, while Hans couldn't get enough of the shabu-shabu. It was a wonderful way to immerse ourselves in the local cuisine and prepare for a day of exploration.


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

After breakfast, we headed straight to the Dogo Onsen Main Building. This iconic bathhouse is said to be one of the oldest hot springs in Japan, and it certainly felt like stepping back in time. The building itself is a magnificent wooden structure, a maze of stairways and passages bustling with activity. I couldn't help but think of the animated film *Spirited Away*, as Dogo Onsen is rumored to have been an inspiration for the movie.


Experience Japan's oldest hot spring, a historic cultural property offering therapeutic waters and a glimpse into the past in Matsuyama.

We opted for the Kami no Yu bath on the ground floor, eager to experience the famed waters. While not a luxurious experience, it was certainly memorable. The water was warm and soothing, and I felt my muscles relax as I soaked in the historic atmosphere. It was interesting to see locals and tourists alike enjoying the communal bath, all sharing in this ancient tradition. Hans, ever the curious one, struck up a conversation with a local gentleman who shared stories of the onsen's history. Sofia, initially hesitant, was soon splashing around with other children, giggling with delight.

To truly appreciate a culture, one must immerse themselves in its traditions, both grand and humble.

After our invigorating bath, we strolled through the surrounding streets, soaking in the charm of the onsen town. We popped into Island Mishima, a local shop brimming with souvenirs and local crafts. I picked up a few small trinkets for my friends back in Bonn, while Sofia chose a colorful *yukata* for her dolls. The shopkeeper was incredibly kind, offering us samples of local sweets and sharing stories about the island's history. It's these small interactions that truly enrich a travel experience.


Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Island Mishima, where local culture meets modern retail in the heart of Ehime.

For lunch, we ventured to Osusowake Shokudo Mado, a cafeteria known for its heartwarming concept of sharing. The name *Osusowake* means sharing something with others, paying it forward with warmth. The cafeteria sources its ingredients from local farmers, creating daily menus based on what's available. It felt wonderful to support such a community-focused establishment. I savored a delicious plate of chicken piccata, while Hans enjoyed a hearty vegetable stew. Sofia, of course, opted for the *udon* noodles, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Osusowake Shokudo Mado in Kami, Kochi - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

In the afternoon, we drove to Shikoku Village, an open-air architectural park showcasing historic buildings from all over Shikoku Island. It was like stepping into a living museum, with farmhouses, storehouses, and workshops dating back to the Edo and Meiji periods. We wandered through the village, marveling at the well-preserved structures and gaining a glimpse into rural life from years gone by.


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

Sofia was particularly fascinated by the traditional sugar extraction process, while Hans, with his engineering background, was intrigued by the intricate construction of the buildings. I loved the serene gardens and the sense of tranquility that permeated the village. We even crossed a vine suspension bridge, similar to those found in the Iya Valley. Although reinforced with steel cables, it still gave me a thrill as I imagined crossing it in its original form.

We ended our day with dinner at Eki-mae Shokudo, a local eatery near the train station. It was a simple, unpretentious place, but the food was delicious and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We enjoyed a variety of local dishes, including fresh seafood and hearty noodle soups. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, feeling full and content.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Eki-mae Shokudo in Otoyo - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm struck by the way Shikoku Island seamlessly blends the old and the new. From the ancient traditions of Dogo Onsen to the preserved history of Shikoku Village, there's a sense of timelessness here that's truly captivating. It's a place where you can slow down, connect with the past, and appreciate the simple beauty of life.

Tomorrow, we're off to see the Naruto Whirlpools and the Uzu-no-Michi Walkway [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I've heard they're an incredible sight, and I can't wait to witness the power of nature firsthand. We will have breakfast at Dining Room Hibari, lunch at Tosa Rokkon and dinner at Inonakanokawazu [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. Before that, we will stop by Minami-Shinmachi Shopping Street [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. Until then, *adiós* from Shikoku Island!