Exploring the Cultural Wonders of Shikoku Island

Reaching for the Sky and Touching the Earth

Day 8 on Shikoku Island was a journey of contrasts, taking us from the spiritual heights of a mountaintop temple to the dramatic depths of a river gorge. It's amazing how much variety this island holds, and I'm so glad I get to share these experiences with you. Today was a reminder of why I love to travel – to see new things, experience different cultures, and challenge myself physically and mentally.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Amekaze Shokudo. The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon as we arrived, casting a golden glow over the surrounding rice fields. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and a bowl of perfectly steamed rice. Aisha, who was feeling a bit more adventurous, decided to try the daily special, which turned out to be a delicious combination of local vegetables and tofu. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the day's adventures.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Amekaze Shokudo, where delightful dishes meet stunning views of rice fields in Nankoku.

After breakfast, we set off for Umpenji Temple, the 66th temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Nestled high in the mountains, reaching the temple was an adventure in itself. We decided to take the ropeway, which whisked us up the steep slopes in no time. As we ascended, the views became increasingly breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape stretching out before us.


Discover Umpenji Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary in Tokushima, perfect for spiritual reflection and cultural immersion on your Shikoku journey.

Stepping out of the ropeway station, we were immediately enveloped in a sense of tranquility. The air was crisp and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds. We followed the winding path towards the temple, passing towering cedar trees and ancient stone lanterns. The temple grounds were expansive, with numerous halls, pagodas, and statues to explore. I was particularly struck by the five hundred life-size statues of arhats, Buddha's disciples, each with its own unique expression and pose. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight.

The journey to Umpenji Temple was a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding experiences are those that require a bit of effort and a willingness to step outside of one's comfort zone.

After spending a couple of hours exploring Umpenji Temple, we made our way back down the mountain and headed towards Ōboke Gorge. This dramatic river gorge is known for its stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters. As we drove along the winding road that hugs the edge of the gorge, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the power and beauty of nature.


Discover the stunning vistas and thrilling adventures at Ōboke Gorge, Tokushima's hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

We decided to take a sightseeing boat cruise through the gorge, which allowed us to get a closer look at the towering cliffs and unique rock formations. The water was an incredible shade of emerald green, and we could see fish swimming below the surface. Our guide, a friendly local with a wealth of knowledge about the area, pointed out various landmarks and shared stories about the gorge's history and geology. He explained that the gorge was formed over millions of years by the erosive power of the Yoshino River, which has carved its way through the mountains, creating this spectacular landscape. The names Oboke and Koboke translate to “big dangerous steps” and “small dangerous steps,” respectively, owing to the steep slopes with narrow paths that can indeed be tricky to walk along.

After the boat tour, we were feeling quite hungry, so we stopped for lunch at Tosa Rokkon in Kami. This restaurant is known for its authentic Tosa cuisine, which features fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. I decided to try the Katsuo no Tataki (seared bonito), a local specialty, while Aisha opted for a tempura set. Both dishes were absolutely delicious, and we left feeling satisfied and energized.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Tosa Rokkon in Kami, Kochi - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

With the afternoon sun starting to dip lower, we made our way back towards our accommodation, but not before a quick stop at Bar Rokudenashi. This cozy little bar had been recommended to us by a local we'd met earlier in the day, and it turned out to be a real gem. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the bartender was a master mixologist. I ordered a local craft beer, while Aisha decided to try one of the bar's signature cocktails. We chatted with some of the other patrons, who were a mix of locals and tourists, and enjoyed the lively atmosphere.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tokushima at Bar Rokudenashi, where local spirits and friendly faces await.

As we sipped our drinks, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we'd had. From the spiritual heights of Umpenji Temple to the dramatic depths of Ōboke Gorge, we'd experienced the best of what Shikoku Island has to offer. And with the Awa Odori festival in full swing in Tokushima, the island is alive with music and dance. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to explore Amegaeri Waterfall and Lake Sameura. Until then, kampai!

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Amegaeri Waterfall and Lake Sameura. Can't wait to share that with you all!

Reflecting on Barbados

As I sit here tonight, enjoying the relative cool of the evening after another day of exploring Shikoku, my mind drifts back home to Barbados. I find myself thinking about the gentle, consistent breeze we have there, a stark contrast to the humid heat of Japan in August. I miss the taste of Bajan flying fish, and the sound of steel drums echoing through the streets of Speightstown. These memories are a comfort, a reminder of who I am and where I come from. But they also fuel my curiosity and my desire to explore the world, to see what other wonders and experiences await me. Perhaps one day I’ll bring Aisha and Ethan back to Barbados to show them where I grew up. For now, I’m content to soak up the beauty and culture of Japan, and to share my experiences with all of you.

Aisha's Perspective

Aisha has been taking some amazing photos throughout our trip. Her eye for detail and composition is incredible. She’s been capturing moments and scenes that I would have completely missed. It’s wonderful to see Shikoku through her lens, and to have these memories preserved in such a beautiful way. I think I’ll ask her to put together a slideshow when we get back to Toronto so we can share our adventures with friends and family.

Ethan's Thoughts

Ethan has been such a trooper on this trip. He's been willing to try new foods, explore ancient temples, and hike through rugged terrain. He's even been practicing his Japanese phrases, much to the delight of the locals. I'm so proud of his adaptability and his willingness to embrace new experiences. I think this trip is helping him to grow and learn in ways that he never could in a classroom. I am so glad to be sharing this time with him. I feel so very fortunate.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow, we're off to explore more of Kochi Prefecture, with plans to visit Amegaeri Waterfall and Lake Sameura. I've heard that the waterfall is particularly stunning, and I'm looking forward to taking some photos. Lake Sameura is supposed to be a great spot for hiking and enjoying the natural scenery. I can't wait to share our adventures with you all!