Exploring the Cultural and Natural Wonders of Shikoku Island

A Tapestry of Art and Views

Today was a day of sensory overload in the best possible way. Lena and I immersed ourselves in art, marveled at engineering feats, and savored the local flavors of Shikoku. It was a day that reminded me why we love to travel – to experience the unexpected and find beauty in every corner of the world.

Our day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Kohanyu. The cozy atmosphere and traditional dishes were the perfect start to what promised to be an exciting day. After breakfast, we set off to the Otsuka Museum of Art.


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

Otsuka Museum of Art: A World of Art in One Place

The Otsuka Museum of Art is unlike any museum I've ever visited. It houses over 1,000 life-size ceramic reproductions of Western masterpieces, spanning from ancient times to the 20th century. From Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel to Van Gogh's Sunflowers, it was an incredible journey through art history. The scale of the reproductions is simply breathtaking, and the fact that you can touch them makes the experience even more immersive.


Discover a world of art at the Otsuka Museum of Art, featuring stunning replicas of masterworks from the Western art tradition in scenic Naruto, Tokushima.

Lena, with her graphic designer's eye, was particularly fascinated by the details and colors of each piece. We spent hours wandering through the museum's vast halls, marveling at the artistry and the sheer ambition of the project. I was particularly impressed by the reproduction of Picasso's Guernica, a powerful and moving work that felt even more impactful in its massive, life-size form.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

What struck me most was the museum's commitment to preserving art for future generations. The ceramic reproductions are designed to last for 2,000 years, ensuring that these masterpieces will be accessible to people long after the originals have faded or been lost. It's a testament to the power of art and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.

Lunch at Eki-mae Shokudo: A Taste of Local Life

After our artistic adventure, we were ready for lunch. We found ourselves at Eki-mae Shokudo, a charming eatery in Otoyo. This restaurant is known for its authentic Japanese regional cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. It was the perfect place to refuel and experience a taste of local life.


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

I opted for a hearty rice bowl topped with fresh, local vegetables, while Lena chose a delicate sashimi platter. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, and we savored every bite. The restaurant's emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients was evident in the quality of the food. It's these small, local experiences that often leave the biggest impression on me.

Kurushima Strait Observatory: A Bird's-Eye View

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we drove to the Kurushima Strait Observatory. This observatory offers panoramic views of the Kurushima Strait Bridge, the Seto Inland Sea, and the surrounding islands. As we approached, the sheer scale of the bridge was awe-inspiring.


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

We climbed to the top of the observatory and were rewarded with breathtaking vistas. The Kurushima Strait Bridge, the world's first triple suspension bridge, stretched across the water like a giant spiderweb. The turbulent currents of the Seto Inland Sea swirled beneath us, creating a mesmerizing display of natural power.

Lena and I spent a long time simply taking in the view, marveling at the engineering feat and the beauty of the natural landscape. It was a reminder of the incredible things that humans can achieve when they work in harmony with nature.

Dinner at Osusowake Shokudo Mado: Sharing the Warmth

As evening approached, we made our way to Osusowake Shokudo Mado in Kami. This restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it's a community hub that embodies the spirit of sharing and connection. The name Osusowake means to share something with others, and that's exactly what this restaurant does.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Osusowake Shokudo Mado in Kami, Kochi - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

The owner, Ms. Chimi Suyama, is a warm and welcoming presence. She sources her ingredients from local farmers and creates a menu that changes daily based on what's available. We sat at a cozy table and enjoyed a delicious meal of traditional Japanese dishes, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

What made the experience truly special was the sense of community in the restaurant. We chatted with other diners, sharing stories and laughter. It felt like we were part of something bigger than ourselves, a network of people connected by a shared love of food and community.

Nightcap at tone dining bar: A Relaxing End to the Day

To cap off our day, we decided to check out tone dining bar. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on our adventures. With its cozy atmosphere, it was a great way to end the day.


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, we talked about all the incredible things we had seen and done throughout the day. From the art of the Otsuka Museum to the views from the Kurushima Strait Observatory and the warmth of Osusowake Shokudo Mado, it was a day that had touched all our senses.

Tomorrow is our last day on Shikoku Island, and we're planning to make the most of it. We'll be visiting the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore and taking a ride on the Bizan Ropeway, followed by some shopping at Minami-Shinmachi Shopping Street. It's bittersweet to think that our journey is coming to an end, but I'm also excited to see what tomorrow brings.

For now, I'm grateful for the memories we've made on Shikoku Island. It's a place that has captured our hearts with its beauty, culture, and the warmth of its people. I know we'll be back someday.

As I sit here writing this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had and the people we've met along the way. Travel is more than just seeing new places; it's about connecting with cultures, expanding our horizons, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And Shikoku Island has given us plenty of memories to cherish.

So, until tomorrow, dear readers, stay tuned for our final adventure on Shikoku Island! I can't wait to share it with you.

It’s been a long day, and as I lay here next to Lena, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment. We’ve explored so much of this island, and I’m excited to see what our final day brings. Good night from Shikoku!