Exploring the Cultural and Natural Wonders of Shikoku Island

Farewell, Shikoku! A Day of Quirky Discoveries

As our Shikoku adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had over the past thirteen days. From serene temples to breathtaking natural landscapes, this island has captured my heart in ways I never imagined. Today, our final day, was a delightful mix of quirky and charming, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of Shikoku. It was a day filled with unexpected discoveries and delicious farewells, leaving me with a bittersweet feeling as we prepare to head back to Bonn.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Amekaze Shokudo. While I couldn't find many recent reviews, we decided to try it out anyway. It turned out to be a great choice! The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, and the food was simple but delicious. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and rice. Hans, ever the adventurous one, tried a local specialty that involved fermented soybeans – a taste he politely described as 'unique'.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Amekaze Shokudo, where delightful dishes meet stunning views of rice fields in Nankoku.

With our stomachs full, we set off for the Shikoku Automobile Museum in Konan. Now, I'm not usually one for car museums, but Hans is a big fan, and I have to admit, this place was surprisingly fascinating. The museum is home to a diverse collection of vehicles, ranging from classic European sports cars to iconic Japanese models. As we wandered through the exhibits, I was struck by the sheer artistry and craftsmanship that went into these machines. Hans, of course, was in his element, rattling off facts and figures about horsepower and engine sizes. I particularly enjoyed the collection of vintage motorcycles; they reminded me of the old bikes my grandfather used to tinker with back in Anse Boileau.


Explore the Shikoku Automobile Museum in Konan, Kochi - a captivating journey through Japan's rich automotive history and vintage car collection.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

One of the highlights was a pristine Toyota 2000GT, a car that Hans had always admired. He spent a good twenty minutes admiring its sleek lines and impeccable detailing. I, on the other hand, was captivated by a quirky DeLorean DMC-12, the famous car from Back to the Future. It felt so out of place among the other classic vehicles, but it added a touch of whimsy to the collection. The museum itself isn't huge, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in quality. It's a must-visit for any car enthusiast, and even for someone like me, who's more interested in the stories behind the machines.

After immersing ourselves in automotive history, we decided to embrace the more mystical side of Shikoku with a trip to the Yokai House in Miyoshi. Yokai, for those who don't know, are supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore – spirits, demons, and mischievous beings that have been part of Japanese culture for centuries. I've always been fascinated by folklore, and the Yokai House promised a unique glimpse into this hidden world. The Yokai House is nestled in the serene landscapes of Miyoshi, Tokushima. As we stepped inside, we were immediately transported to a realm of myths and legends. The museum showcases a diverse range of Yokai, each with its own unique story and characteristics. From friendly spirits to mischievous tricksters, the exhibits brought these mythical beings to life in a captivating way. The interactive displays were particularly engaging, allowing us to delve deeper into the cultural significance of Yokai and their impact on Japanese history and society.


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

I found myself particularly drawn to the stories of the mischievous Kappa, water sprites known for their love of cucumbers, and the Tengu, mountain goblins with long noses and a penchant for playing tricks. The Yokai House wasn't just a museum; it was an immersive experience that brought Japanese folklore to life. It was the perfect way to end our exploration of Shikoku's cultural heritage.

For lunch, we stopped at Dining Room Hibari. I opted for the katsudon, which was reportedly famous for its large portion sizes. And they weren't kidding! The 'mini-size' was more than enough for me, and it was absolutely delicious. Hans went for a local game dish, which he thoroughly enjoyed. It seems Shikoku is full of surprises, even when it comes to lunch.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Dining Room Hibari in Otoyo - home to the best katsudon experience!

As evening approached, we decided to celebrate our last night in Shikoku with a special dinner at Tosa Rokkon in Kami. This restaurant is known for its authentic Japanese cuisine and its dedication to using fresh, local ingredients. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly and attentive. We started with a selection of sushi and sashimi, each piece bursting with flavor. For our main courses, I chose a grilled fish dish, while Hans opted for a hearty meat dish featuring local beef. The meal was a true culinary delight, a perfect blend of traditional flavors and modern techniques.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Tosa Rokkon in Kami, Kochi - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

After dinner, we decided to cap off the night with a visit to Beer Wine and Ate Mangetsu, a local bar in Kochi. It was a cozy little place, with a great selection of local beers and wines. We sat at the bar, chatting with the friendly bartender and soaking in the local atmosphere. It was the perfect way to say goodbye to Shikoku, a final toast to the incredible experiences we've shared.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Beer Wine and Ate Mangetsu, a cozy bar in Kochi offering a diverse selection of drinks and local flavors.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a pang of sadness that our Shikoku adventure is coming to an end. But I also feel an immense sense of gratitude for the memories we've made, the people we've met, and the things we've learned. Shikoku is a truly special place, a hidden gem that deserves to be explored and appreciated.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home to Bonn. It will be a long trip, but I know that the memories of Shikoku will stay with us forever. I’m already looking forward to sharing our stories and photos with friends and family, and perhaps even inspiring a few of them to embark on their own Shikoku adventure. Until next time, Shikoku – arigato gozaimasu!

And who knows, maybe on our next adventure, we’ll stumble upon even more Yokai tales. As they say in Japan,

The supernatural is only a shadow away.