Exploring the Cultural Wonders of Shikoku Island

A Day of Natural Wonders

Hey everyone! David here, still buzzing from today's adventures on Shikoku Island. After a fantastic first day immersing ourselves in the local culture, my friends and I were eager to explore the natural beauty that this island has to offer. And boy, did Shikoku deliver! Today was all about breathtaking landscapes, serene waterfalls, and a taste of local flavors that made our journey even more special. Let me tell you all about it.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ombelico in Tosa. I must say, starting the day with Italian cuisine in Japan was a unique experience. Aisha would have loved this place, she always appreciates a good fusion of cultures. I opted for a classic Italian breakfast, while my friends chose some of the Japanese-Italian fusion dishes. It was a delightful start to a day filled with exploration. The restaurant had a charming atmosphere, perfect for fueling up before our adventure.


Discover Ombelico in Tosa: where authentic Italian cuisine meets Japanese hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to conquer the magnificent Shikoku Karst. The drive itself was an experience, winding through lush green hills and small villages that seemed untouched by time. As we ascended, the landscape transformed into a surreal expanse of limestone formations scattered across rolling grasslands. The views were simply stunning.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Shikoku Karst, a unique tourist attraction in Japan perfect for hiking and enjoying scenic landscapes.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

We spent hours wandering through the karst, taking photos and simply soaking in the unique atmosphere. The air was fresh and clean, a welcome change from the city life back in Toronto. I even managed to capture some amazing shots with my camera, something I know my son Ethan would be thrilled to see. He's quite the budding photographer himself. The Karst was unlike anything I’d seen before. It felt like stepping onto another planet, a serene and surreal landscape that stretched as far as the eye could see.

After our karst adventure, we were ready for a bite to eat. We found a local gem called Eki-mae Shokudo. This charming spot offered authentic Japanese regional cuisine, and it was exactly what we needed. I decided to try their Katsudon, while my friends opted for the Motsu-ni and Hinai chicken Inaniwa udon. The food was delicious and comforting, and the owners were incredibly welcoming. It felt like we were dining in someone's home, which added to the charm of the experience.


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

With renewed energy, we headed to our next destination: the enchanting Todoroki Falls. The sound of the water grew louder as we approached, creating a sense of anticipation. The falls were surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect escape from the summer heat. We took a leisurely stroll along the promenade, admiring the various waterfalls that make up the Todoroki Kujuku Falls.


Experience the serene beauty of Todoroki Falls, a breathtaking natural attraction in Tokushima, Japan, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

The main waterfall was a sight to behold, with water cascading down into a rocky basin below. I could see why it’s called Todoroki, which means roaring in Japanese. The sound was indeed deafening, yet soothing at the same time. We spent a good hour simply enjoying the view and the refreshing mist from the falls. It was a perfect moment of tranquility amidst our adventurous day.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Yuzuan Restaurant for dinner. This place was an experience in itself. The parking lot was filled with quirky objects from the owner's collection, including a shark statue and a Cat Bus from My Neighbor Totoro. The menu was disguised as a newspaper, and the chopstick covers were local collectibles. It was clear that this restaurant had a unique personality.


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

The food was just as impressive as the decor. I tried their signature Omuraisu, while my friends went for the Katsuo no Tataki. Everything was delicious, and the presentation was impeccable. We even considered trying the Katsuo Sundae, an ice cream parfait with seared tuna, but decided to save that for another visit.

After dinner, we decided to check out a local bar called Bar Kohno. This cozy and welcoming bar had been serving visitors for 24 years. They had an impressive selection of whiskies and cocktails made with local Tokushima citrus and fruits. I opted for a glass of their original cask whiskey, while my friends tried some of the local cocktails. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Tokushima at Bar Kohno, where excellent drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.

Reflecting on the day, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and local culture of Shikoku Island. From the stunning landscapes of Shikoku Karst to the serene Todoroki Falls, every moment was filled with awe and wonder. The local cuisine added another layer of richness to our journey, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Iya Valley and the Vine Bridge. I’ve heard it’s a place of breathtaking beauty and rich history, and I can’t wait to explore it with my friends. I’m also looking forward to visiting the Mountain bookshop. It sounds like a perfect place to find some unique souvenirs and learn more about the region. Until then, stay tuned for more adventures from Shikoku Island!

I’m also learning to embrace the spontaneous nature of this trip. Not having pre-booked hotels has allowed us to discover hidden gems and immerse ourselves in the local culture in a way that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. It’s a bit outside my comfort zone, as I usually prefer to have everything planned out in advance, but I’m finding that the flexibility and freedom are incredibly rewarding.

The weather in Shikoku in August is warm and humid. Today, the temperature was around 27°C. It was manageable, but I definitely missed having my raincoat and sunscreen. I’ll have to make a note to buy some tomorrow. Despite the heat, the beauty of the island made it all worthwhile.

As I sit here, writing this blog post and sipping on some local tea, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Shikoku Island has already exceeded my expectations, and I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings. Goodnight from Shikoku!