Cultural Exploration on Shikoku Island: A Solo Adventure

Crossing Ancient Vines and Touching the Sky

Today was a day of breathtaking contrasts, from the heart-stopping heights of the vine bridges to the serene, expansive views of the Shikoku Karst. It was a journey deep into the heart of Shikoku, reminding me of the simple joys of exploration and the profound beauty of nature. It's days like these that make me so grateful for this solo adventure, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the culture and landscapes of this incredible island.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Okamura [itinerary]. Though I was in Nankoku, Kochi, not Takamatsu, the izakaya offered a delightful taste of local flavors, setting me up perfectly for a day of adventure.

Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge: A Step Back in Time

My first stop was the Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge [itinerary]. The journey to get there was an adventure in itself, with winding roads carving through the lush, green mountains of the Iya Valley. As someone who grew up in Kyenjojo, Uganda, I'm no stranger to natural beauty, but the sheer scale and serenity of this place were something else.

The Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge is made up of two separate bridges: the Husband Bridge (Otokobashi) and the Wife Bridge (Onnabashi). They are said to have been built about 800 years ago by the Taira clan. After their defeat by the Minamoto family, the Heike clan fled to the Iya Valley and constructed these bridges from thick vines, which could be cut quickly in case of enemy pursuit.

Before I even saw the bridge, I could hear the rushing water of the Iya River below. The entrance fee was 550 yen, and it was worth every yen. Walking down the stone steps into the valley, I was immediately struck by the ingenuity and history of the bridges.

The bridges are constructed from hardy kiwi vines, with hidden steel cables for safety. As I stepped onto the first bridge, the Otokobashi (Husband Bridge), I felt a thrill as it swayed gently with each step. The gaps between the vines added to the excitement, offering glimpses of the river flowing below. The views of the surrounding forest were simply stunning, a vibrant green canopy stretching as far as the eye could see.

Crossing the Onnabashi (Wife Bridge) was equally exhilarating. It was fascinating to think about the generations who had crossed these bridges before me, and the history they represented. The sound of the river, the feel of the vines under my feet, and the fresh mountain air created a sensory experience that was both grounding and invigorating.

Nature's beauty and human ingenuity intertwine to create a truly unforgettable experience.

After exploring the bridges, I took a moment to appreciate the tranquility of the area. It's a place where time seems to slow down, and the worries of everyday life fade away. Nearby, I saw the Yaen Monkey Cart, where visitors can pull themselves across the river via a suspended wire cart. It looked like fun, but I decided to save that for another time. I was content just soaking in the atmosphere and reflecting on the history and natural beauty surrounding me.


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

Lunch at Inonakanokawazu: A Taste of Local Flavors

By lunchtime, I had worked up quite an appetite. I headed to Inonakanokawazu [itinerary], a restaurant known for its authentic Japanese cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a menu that highlighted local and seasonal ingredients. I decided to try one of their set meals, featuring fresh sashimi, grilled fish, and mountain vegetables.

The sashimi was incredibly fresh, melting in my mouth with a delicate sweetness. The grilled fish was perfectly cooked, with a smoky flavor that complemented the subtle taste of the fish. The mountain vegetables were a delightful mix of textures and flavors, a true taste of the region. The meal was a perfect balance of flavors and textures, a testament to the skill and care of the chefs.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such authentic cuisine. It's these small moments of culinary discovery that make traveling so rewarding. I also thought about Hope and Moses back home and how they would have enjoyed the meal.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Inonakanokawazu in Kami, Kochi – a true taste of tradition awaits you.

Shikoku Karst: Where the Sky Meets the Earth

With a full stomach and a renewed sense of energy, I set off for my next destination: Shikoku Karst [itinerary]. The drive to the karst was breathtaking, with panoramic views of rolling hills and verdant valleys. As I climbed higher, the landscape began to change, with striking outcroppings of white limestone scattered across the grassy meadows.

Shikoku Karst is a massive limestone plateau that stretches for 25 kilometers along the border between Ehime and Kochi prefectures. It's known as one of Japan's three major karsts, and it's also designated as one of the 100 most scenic roads in Japan. The area is characterized by its expansive views, unique geological formations, and peaceful atmosphere.

I parked my car and decided to take a walk along the ridgeline, following prefectural road 383, also known as the “Shikoku Karst Longitudinal Line”. The air was crisp and clean, and the views were simply awe-inspiring. To the south, I could see the Pacific Ocean glistening in the distance. To the north, the jagged peaks of the Ishizuchi Mountain range rose majestically.

The landscape was dotted with grazing cows, adding to the pastoral charm of the area. I took my time, breathing in the fresh air and marveling at the natural beauty surrounding me. It was a perfect place to clear my head and reconnect with nature. I imagined bringing Moses here; he would have loved the open space and the sense of tranquility.

As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The white limestone formations seemed to glow in the soft light, creating a magical atmosphere. I found a quiet spot to sit and watch the sunset, feeling a deep sense of peace and gratitude. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


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

Dinner at Munagin: A Culinary Farewell

For dinner, I chose Munagin [itinerary], an eel restaurant in Nankoku, Kochi. I wanted to savor one last taste of local cuisine before heading back to my guesthouse. The restaurant was known for its expertly prepared eel dishes, and I was eager to try their specialty.

I ordered the unagi don, a bowl of rice topped with grilled eel. The eel was tender and flavorful, with a rich, savory sauce that perfectly complemented the delicate taste of the fish. It was a truly satisfying meal, a fitting end to a day of adventure and discovery.


Experience the authentic taste of Japan at Munagin - a premier destination for unagi lovers in Nankoku.

A Nightcap at Irish Pub Amontillado

To cap off the evening, I decided to visit the Irish Pub Amontillado in Kochi [itinerary, 22, 27]. I know it sounds strange to go to an Irish pub while in Japan but I was curious. It was a short walk from Kochi Station. The pub had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with wooden furnishings, soft lighting, and traditional Irish decor.

I ordered a Guinness and chatted with some of the locals. It was interesting to hear their perspectives on life in Shikoku and their experiences with foreign visitors. The pub had a great selection of local craft beers, so I tried a couple of those as well. It was a fun and relaxing way to end the day.


Discover the charm of Irish Pub Amontillado in Kochi, where traditional izakaya meets the warmth of Irish hospitality, offering a unique dining experience.

Tomorrow's Pilgrimage: Temples and Tranquility

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Umpenji Temple and Dainichi Temple [itinerary of tomorrow], continuing my exploration of Shikoku's spiritual side. I'm looking forward to experiencing the tranquility and history of these sacred places. I also plan to visit Shikoku Shop 88 to buy some souvenirs [itinerary of tomorrow].

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. Shikoku Island has a way of captivating the soul, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and genuine hospitality that is truly unique. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the moment and discover a deeper connection to the world around you.

Before heading back to the guesthouse, I looked up to see if there were any festivals nearby. It turns out that the Awa Odori Festival, one of Japan's largest dance festivals, is held in Tokushima from August 12th to 15th. I am sad I missed it, but maybe I will be able to see the Yosakoi festival in Kochi, which is another of Japan's biggest dance events.