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

A Whimsical Goodbye to Shikoku

As our twelve-day adventure on Shikoku Island draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. From ancient temples to stunning landscapes, this island has captured our hearts in ways we never expected. Today was all about embracing the quirky and soaking in the last panoramic views before we head back to Kelowna. It's bittersweet, but isn't that the essence of travel?

Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at Hakkenden Nankoku Osone. I've always appreciated a good, solid breakfast before a day of exploring, and this place didn't disappoint. It set us up perfectly for a morning steeped in Japanese folklore.

Yokai House: A Spooky Start

Our first stop was the Yokai House. Now, I'll admit, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. Yokai are Japanese spirits and monsters, and the Yokai House is dedicated to showcasing these mythical creatures. Ethan, with his teenage love for the unusual, was immediately intrigued. Olivia, ever the curious librarian, was keen to learn about the cultural significance of these beings. As for me? I was just hoping for a good story and maybe a photo or two.

The Yokai House is part of a roadside station near the Oboke Gorge, and it's quite the sight. There's a dragon and a lady head carved from a log, and even a Godzilla figure guarding the entrance. Inside, the museum was filled with information about Yokai, and while I'm no expert, it was fascinating to learn about the various creatures and their origins. Ethan was particularly thrilled, running from exhibit to exhibit, pointing out his favourite monsters.


Discover the enchanting world of Yokai House in Miyoshi, Tokushima, where Japanese folklore comes alive through captivating exhibits and rich heritage.

The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.

I must admit, I was a bit skeptical at first. But seeing the joy on Ethan's face as he explored the exhibits made it all worthwhile. It's moments like these – sharing new and unexpected experiences with my family – that make travel so rewarding. It reminded me of the time we stumbled upon a quirky gnome museum in Cornwall during my younger years. You never know what hidden gems you'll find when you step off the beaten path.

Lunch at Tataki Kobo: A Bonito Feast

After our spooky encounter with Yokai, we headed to Tataki Kobo for lunch. Kochi is famous for its *katsuo tataki* (seared bonito), and I was determined to try the best the region had to offer. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample this local delicacy. We managed to snag a table and ordered a variety of *tataki* dishes.

Let me tell you, it was an experience. The bonito was lightly seared over straw, giving it a smoky flavour that was simply divine. Olivia, who usually prefers milder flavours, was pleasantly surprised. Ethan, of course, devoured his portion in record time. As a brewery tour guide, I appreciate the art of food and drink pairing, and I couldn't help but wonder what local craft beer would perfectly complement this dish. Perhaps something hoppy to cut through the richness of the fish?

I was reminded of my homebrewing experiments back in Kelowna. The pursuit of the perfect flavour profile, the careful selection of ingredients – it's all part of the same culinary journey. Maybe I'll try smoking some malt with applewood chips for a future brew, inspired by the smoky *tataki* we enjoyed today.


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

Kurushima Strait Observatory: A Breathtaking Finale

With our bellies full of delicious *tataki*, we made our way to the Kurushima Strait Observatory. Located in Imabari, this observatory offers panoramic views of the Kurushima Strait and the impressive Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge. As we drove towards the coast, the landscape transformed into a stunning vista of islands and sparkling blue waters. The bridges themselves are a feat of engineering, and I couldn't help but marvel at the human ingenuity that made them possible.

The observatory is perched on a hilltop, providing a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. We spent a good hour simply taking in the scenery, snapping photos, and enjoying the fresh sea breeze. Ethan, who's been getting into photography lately, was in his element, experimenting with different angles and compositions. Olivia, ever the romantic, pointed out a pair of red kites soaring overhead.


Experience the stunning views at Kurushima Strait Observatory, an essential stop for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts in Imabari, Japan.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Shikoku Island had exceeded all our expectations, offering a blend of culture, nature, and culinary delights that we'll cherish for years to come. It's funny how travel can change you, opening your eyes to new perspectives and creating lasting memories.

Dinner at Kohanyu: A Relaxing End to the Day

As the sun began to set, we drove to Kohanyu for our final dinner on Shikoku Island. This restaurant, known for its serene atmosphere and delicious cuisine, was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. The restaurant has non-smoking rooms, which is a plus for us.

The meal was a delightful mix of local specialties and international flavours. We savoured each bite, reminiscing about our favourite moments from the trip. Ethan regaled us with stories of his Yokai encounters, while Olivia shared her thoughts on the island's rich history and culture. As for me, I simply enjoyed the company of my family, grateful for the opportunity to share this adventure with them.


Discover Kohanyu in Kochi: A charming restaurant offering traditional Japanese cuisine and a cozy café atmosphere perfect for tourists.

A Nightcap at Tone Dining Bar

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to make a final stop at Tone Dining Bar in Kochi. It seemed like the perfect way to celebrate our last night on the island. The bar had a relaxed atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I sampled a local craft beer, while Olivia opted for a glass of wine. Ethan, being underage, stuck to a soft drink, but he seemed content just to soak in the ambience.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere and affordable drinks at Tone Dining Bar in Kochi, a perfect spot for unwinding and socializing with locals.

As we sipped our drinks, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness that our trip was coming to an end. But I also knew that we were taking home a wealth of memories and experiences that would last a lifetime. Shikoku Island had surprised and delighted us in so many ways, and I'm already looking forward to our next adventure.

And with that, our Shikoku adventure comes to a close. Tomorrow, we start our journey back home, filled with memories of temples, mountains, and delicious food. Until next time, happy travels!