Exploring the Cultural and Natural Wonders of Shikoku Island

Suspended Between Earth and Sky

Today was nothing short of exhilarating! Hans and I ventured deep into the heart of Shikoku Island, a journey that brought us face-to-face with one of Japan's most unique and thrilling landmarks. It was a day filled with natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a few heart-stopping moments that I'm excited to share.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Amekaze Shokudo. It was a quaint little place, bustling with locals and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. We enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the adventures that lay ahead. I must admit, adjusting to Japanese breakfasts has been a bit of a challenge for me, as I grew up eating fruits and pastries. But Hans seems to enjoy it a lot, always eager to try new things.

Our main destination for the day was the famed Vine Bridge in the Iya Valley. The drive there was an experience in itself, with winding roads that snaked through lush green mountains and offered breathtaking views at every turn. The Iya Valley is known for its remote location and stunning natural beauty, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. As we drove, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement building within me. I had read so much about this bridge, but nothing could have prepared me for the real thing.

Finally, we arrived at the entrance to the Vine Bridge. As I stepped out of the car, I was immediately struck by the sheer beauty of the surroundings. The bridge itself was nestled between two verdant mountains, with the clear Iya River flowing beneath it. The structure looked incredibly precarious, made entirely of thick vines and wooden planks. It swayed gently in the breeze, and I could already feel a sense of trepidation creeping in.

Before crossing, we took a moment to learn about the history of the bridge. Apparently, it was originally built by the Heike clan, who sought refuge in this remote valley after being defeated in battle. They constructed the bridge as a means of crossing the river, and the vine construction was meant to be easily cut in case of pursuit. Knowing this added an extra layer of intrigue to the experience. I imagined the Heike warriors crossing this very bridge centuries ago, their hearts pounding with fear and uncertainty.

With a deep breath, I stepped onto the bridge. The wooden planks were spaced far enough apart that I could see the river rushing below. The vines creaked and groaned with every step, and the entire structure swayed in a way that was both thrilling and terrifying. I clung to the thick vine railings, my knuckles turning white. Hans, ever the adventurous one, was already halfway across, snapping photos and laughing with glee.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, even if that step is on a swaying vine bridge.

Despite my initial fear, I found myself enjoying the experience immensely. The views from the bridge were simply stunning, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and the river below. I paused for a moment to take it all in, feeling a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such a unique and beautiful place. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated joy, a reminder of why I love to travel and explore new cultures.

After crossing the bridge, we explored the surrounding area. We visited the Biwa Waterfall, a small but picturesque waterfall located near the bridge. The water was crystal clear and ice-cold, and we took a moment to splash our faces and cool off from the summer heat. We also wandered through the small village, admiring the traditional Japanese houses and the vibrant gardens. It felt like stepping back in time, a glimpse into a simpler, more peaceful way of life.

For lunch, we stopped at Yuzuan Restaurant, a charming eatery known for its local specialties. I decided to try the Iya soba, a type of buckwheat noodle that is unique to this region. The noodles were thick and chewy, with a distinct earthy flavor. It was served in a warm broth with vegetables and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Hans opted for the amegozen, which included kakesoba, grilled amago (a local fish), and wild vegetables. Both meals were delicious and satisfying, a perfect representation of the local cuisine.

In the late afternoon, we decided to explore more of the Iya Valley. We drove along the winding mountain roads, stopping at various viewpoints to admire the scenery. The valley was bathed in a warm golden light, and the views were simply breathtaking. I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me, a feeling that is so rare in our busy modern lives. It was a reminder of the importance of taking time to connect with nature and appreciate the simple things in life.

As evening approached, we made our way to Dining Room Hibari for dinner. This restaurant was a bit more upscale than our previous stops, with a refined atmosphere and a menu featuring modern Japanese cuisine. I ordered a seafood dish, while Hans chose a meat option. The food was beautifully presented and incredibly flavorful, a perfect ending to a perfect day. It was interesting to see the contrast between the traditional Iya soba we had for lunch and the modern cuisine we enjoyed for dinner. It highlighted the diversity and evolution of Japanese cuisine.

To cap off the evening, we decided to visit the Irish Pub Amontillado. I know, it sounds a bit out of place in the middle of rural Japan, but we were curious to see what it was like. To our surprise, the pub was packed with both locals and tourists, all enjoying a lively atmosphere and a selection of imported beers. We ordered a couple of Guinnesses and chatted with some of the other patrons. It was a fun and unexpected way to end the day, a reminder that even in the most remote corners of the world, you can find a sense of community and connection.

As we drove back to our ryokan, I reflected on the day's adventures. The Vine Bridge had certainly been the highlight, but the entire experience had been incredibly rewarding. From the stunning natural beauty to the delicious local cuisine to the unexpected Irish pub, it was a day that I will never forget. I am so grateful to have shared this experience with Hans, my partner in life and travel.

Tomorrow, we'll be heading to Matsuyama to explore Matsuyama Castle and relax at the Dogo Onsen Main Building. I'm already looking forward to another day of adventure and cultural immersion. I'm particularly excited about the Dogo Onsen, as I've heard it's one of the oldest and most famous hot springs in Japan. I'm also hoping to do a little shopping at the Minami-Shinmachi Shopping Street. Until then, sayonara!

Oh, and I almost forgot! I realized today that I completely forgot to pack a portable phone charger and a travel adapter. It's always something, isn't it? Luckily, Hans had an extra charger with him, but we'll definitely need to find a travel adapter before we head to Matsuyama tomorrow. It's a good reminder to always double-check your packing list, no matter how experienced you are as a traveler!