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

Spiritual Heights and City Lights

Today was a day of contrasts, blending serene spirituality with vibrant city views, and culminating in a culinary journey that truly captured the essence of Shikoku. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you’re determined to soak up every last drop of a new experience!

Our morning began with a drive to Umpenji Temple, nestled in the mountains of Tokushima. The drive itself was an experience, winding through lush greenery and offering glimpses of the rural landscape. I was particularly excited about this stop, as I'd read that Umpenji is the 66th temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage and is known for its tranquil atmosphere. Olivia was looking forward to the peaceful gardens, while Ethan, surprisingly, was intrigued by the historical significance of the site.

Arriving at Umpenji, the air was noticeably cooler and fresher. The temple exuded a sense of calm that immediately washed over us. We explored the various halls, admiring the traditional Japanese architecture and the intricate Buddhist statues. The meticulously maintained gardens were a highlight, providing a picturesque setting for quiet contemplation. I even managed to snap a few photos that I think will look great back in Kelowna. We saw several pilgrims dressed in white, their faces etched with determination, and it was humbling to witness their dedication to their spiritual journey. Ethan, who usually rolls his eyes at anything remotely spiritual, seemed genuinely moved by the experience. Olivia later told me she caught him taking photos of the Arhat statues, which was a first! It was a great way to start the day, a true hidden gem.


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

    

The journey is the destination, especially when it leads to breathtaking views and unforgettable flavors.

After a morning of spiritual reflection, we drove back towards Tokushima City, eager to experience a different kind of elevation – the kind that offers panoramic views. Our next stop was the Bizan Ropeway, which promised a scenic ride to the summit of Mount Bizan. The base of the ropeway is conveniently located on the 5th floor of the Awa Odori Kaikan, which we briefly explored before hopping into a gondola. The ropeway ride was smooth and swift, and as we ascended, the views of Tokushima City unfolded beneath us. It was a clear day, and we could see as far as Awaji Island to the north and the Kii Peninsula to the east. Ethan was particularly thrilled, pointing out landmarks and snapping photos with his phone. The summit of Mount Bizan offered even more stunning vistas. We strolled around, taking in the panoramic views and enjoying the cool breeze. I imagined what it must be like during the Awa Odori Festival, with the mountain illuminated and the city alive with dancers. It’s something I’ll definitely add to my bucket list for a future visit. Olivia appreciated the serene atmosphere and the opportunity to simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings. I must admit, even I, a self-confessed beer enthusiast, was captivated by the view.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tokushima from above with a ride on the Bizan Ropeway, a must-visit attraction for all travelers.

For lunch, we headed to Okamura in Tokushima, a restaurant recommended for its authentic local cuisine. It was a cozy little place, tucked away in a quiet neighborhood. I was hoping to sample some of the local sake, but given the day’s itinerary, I decided to stick to something non-alcoholic. We ordered a variety of dishes, including some delicious ramen and a few local specialties that the server recommended. The food was fresh, flavorful, and a perfect representation of Shikoku’s culinary scene. Ethan, who is usually a picky eater, surprised us by trying everything and even asking for seconds of the ramen. Olivia enjoyed the delicate flavors and the use of local ingredients.


Explore the authentic izakaya experience at Okamura in Nankoku, Kochi—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

After lunch, we made our way to Kochi, a journey that offered more scenic views of Shikoku’s countryside. I was particularly excited about our dinner plans in Kochi, as I had heard great things about Tataki Kobo, a restaurant specializing in *katsuo no tataki* (seared bonito). As a brewery tour guide and homebrewer, I appreciate the art of crafting unique flavors, and I was eager to see how the chefs at Tataki Kobo would elevate this local delicacy.

We arrived in Kochi in the late afternoon and checked into our guesthouse. After freshening up, we set out to find Tataki Kobo. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the famous *katsuo no tataki*. We managed to get a table and ordered a selection of dishes, including the signature seared bonito. The presentation was stunning, and the aroma of the straw-smoked fish was intoxicating. The first bite was an explosion of flavor – the smoky char, the rich fish, and the tangy ponzu sauce created a symphony of tastes that danced on my palate. It was, without a doubt, one of the best things I’ve eaten on this trip. Ethan, surprisingly, loved it, and even Olivia, who is usually not a fan of fish, admitted that it was exceptional. I even managed to sample some local Kochi sake, which paired perfectly with the *tataki*. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


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

To cap off the evening, I convinced Olivia and Ethan to join me for a nightcap at Bar Kohno back in Tokushima. I'd read about their excellent selection of drinks and welcoming atmosphere. The bar was indeed a gem, tucked away in the Sakaemachi district. The interior was tastefully designed, creating a cozy and vibrant setting. I opted for a local craft beer, while Olivia enjoyed a glass of wine, and Ethan, surprisingly adventurous, tried a non-alcoholic cocktail made with local citrus fruits. The bartender was knowledgeable and friendly, offering insights into the local culture and recommending specialty drinks. It was a great way to unwind after a long day of exploring, and it gave us a chance to reflect on all the amazing experiences we had shared.


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

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore Shikoku with my family. Each day brings new adventures, new discoveries, and new flavors. Tomorrow, we’re heading to the Ryugado Museum and Aji Ryuozan Park, and I’m already excited to see what those places have in store for us. I’m also looking forward to trying some more local cuisine, including breakfast at Yuzuan Restaurant and lunch at Osusowake Shokudo Mado. And who knows, maybe I’ll even find a new brewery to inspire my homebrewing back in Kelowna. Until then, *kanpai*!

I'm finding that this trip is about more than just seeing new places; it’s about connecting with the local culture, savoring the unique flavors, and creating lasting memories with my family. It’s about embracing the unexpected and finding joy in the simple things, like a stunning view, a delicious meal, or a perfectly crafted beer. And as we continue our journey through Shikoku, I’m confident that there will be many more moments like these to come.