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

Adventures in Anpanman's World and Beyond

Today was a delightful mix of childhood nostalgia and breathtaking natural beauty. We ventured into the heart of Shikoku, exploring the whimsical world of Anpanman and braving the heights of the Iya Valley's famous vine bridges. It was a day filled with laughter, a little bit of fear (mostly on my part!), and a whole lot of unforgettable memories.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Eki-mae Shokudo. This charming spot near the station was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with some authentic Japanese flavors. I opted for a traditional set meal with grilled fish, miso soup, and rice, while Hans enjoyed a hearty bowl of udon. Sofia, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by trying natto (fermented soybeans) for the first time! Her reaction was priceless – a mix of curiosity and slight disgust, but she bravely finished it.

Fueled up and ready to go, we set off for Kami City and the Takashi Yanase Memorial Hall & Anpanman Museum. As a librarian with a soft spot for children's literature, I was particularly excited about this stop. Takashi Yanase, the creator of Anpanman, is a beloved figure in Japan, and his museum promised a journey into a world of imagination and kindness.


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 itself is a vibrant and colorful space, filled with exhibits showcasing Yanase's life and work. Sofia was absolutely captivated by the Anpanman World, an expansive diorama recreating the town where Anpanman and his friends live. She ran from one display to another, pointing out her favorite characters and giggling at their antics. Hans and I enjoyed the gallery on the fourth floor, which featured large-scale Anpanman scenes and original picture book illustrations. It was fascinating to see the evolution of Yanase's art and the enduring appeal of his creation.

The most important thing is to believe in justice, even if you are laughed at.

I was particularly moved by the Poetry and Fairy Tales Picture Book Museum, which displayed Yanase's non-Anpanman works and original cover art from the magazine *Poetry and Fairy Tales*. It offered a glimpse into the broader scope of his creativity and his dedication to nurturing young talent. It was a reminder that even the simplest stories can carry profound messages of hope and resilience.

After immersing ourselves in Anpanman's world, we hit AEON MALL Kochi. Sofia needed a new pair of sandals, and I was hoping to find a nice summer scarf. The mall was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the variety of shops and restaurants. Sofia was thrilled with her new sandals, which were adorned with little Anpanman characters, of course. I found a beautiful silk scarf with a delicate floral print, a perfect souvenir to remind me of our time in Shikoku. We grabbed some refreshing iced green tea before heading off to our next destination.


Discover the vibrant shopping experience at AEON MALL Kochi, featuring top brands, delicious dining, and exciting entertainment options.

Next on our itinerary was the Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge. The drive to Iya Valley was an adventure in itself, with winding mountain roads and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. As someone who grew up in relatively flat Teruel, Spain, I was in awe of the dramatic scenery. The lush greenery, the cascading waterfalls, and the deep gorges were a feast for the eyes.

We stopped for lunch at Yuzuan Restaurant in Kami. This restaurant offered a delightful selection of local dishes, and we opted for a set menu featuring Iya soba noodles, tempura, and fresh river fish. The noodles were perfectly cooked, with a slightly chewy texture and a delicate flavor. The tempura was light and crispy, and the river fish was incredibly fresh and flavorful. It was the perfect fuel for our upcoming adventure.


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

Finally, we arrived at the Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge, also known as the Husband and Wife Bridges. These ancient bridges, constructed from thick vines and wooden planks, are a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Heike clan, who built them centuries ago as a means of accessing their riding grounds on Mt. Tsurugi.


Discover the breathtaking Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge in Tokushima, Japan—a unique blend of adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes.

Crossing the bridges was an exhilarating experience, to say the least. The bridges swayed gently with each step, and the gaps between the planks offered a dizzying view of the river below. Sofia, fearless as always, skipped across the bridges with glee, while I clung to the vines for dear life ! Hans, ever the supportive husband, patiently guided me across, offering words of encouragement and a steady hand.

The Oku-Iya area is more than just the bridges; it's a nature park, and the beauty surrounding the bridges was simply stunning. The forest was alive with the sounds of birds and insects, and the air was fresh and clean. We spent some time exploring the walking trails, admiring the waterfalls, and soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings.

We even took a ride on the *Yaen*, a small cable car that you pull yourself across the river with. It was a unique and fun way to experience the river, and Sofia absolutely loved it. I must admit, pulling ourselves across the water was quite the workout!

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Tataki Kobo in Kochi for dinner. This restaurant is famous for its *katsuo no tataki*, seared bonito, a local delicacy. We watched in fascination as the chef expertly seared the bonito over a straw fire, creating a smoky and flavorful crust while leaving the inside rare and tender. The *katsuo no tataki* was served with ponzu sauce, raw garlic, ginger, and onions, a combination that perfectly complemented the rich flavor of the fish. It was a true culinary highlight of our trip.


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

Tonight, as I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we shared today. From the whimsical world of Anpanman to the breathtaking beauty of the Iya Valley, Shikoku has a way of capturing the heart and igniting the imagination. Tomorrow, we're off to the Kochi Sunday Market, and I'm eager to see what treasures we'll discover there. And perhaps we'll visit Amegaeri Waterfall, too. Until then, *¡adiós* and *Gute Nacht*!

It's worth noting that there aren't any significant local events happening today in Kochi. However, the Local Character Festival in Susaki is coming up soon, from September 13th to 14th.