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

Echoes of the Past, Visions of the Future

Today on Shikoku Island felt like stepping through a portal, not just geographically, but through time itself. From wandering through meticulously preserved historical villages to gazing at architectural marvels that bridge not just land, but eras, it was a day of profound cultural immersion. Elena was especially excited, her eyes wide with wonder at every new sight. Maximilian, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the construction and history of the bridges. And I? I was simply soaking it all in, feeling the pulse of Japan's rich heritage beneath my feet.


Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Inonakanokawazu in Takamatsu. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly steamed rice. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration [i]. Elena surprised us by enjoying the miso soup, a testament to her growing adventurousness with food. Maximilian, of course, went for the coffee and toast – some habits die hard, even in Japan.


With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off for our first destination: Shikoku Village. This open-air architectural park is a collection of historic buildings transported from all over Shikoku, offering a glimpse into rural life from the Edo to Taisho periods. As we wandered through the village, I felt like I was walking through a living museum. Each building had its own story to tell, from the old farmhouses with their thatched roofs to the traditional sugar refinery where we saw a demonstration of the wasanbon sugar extraction process.


Explore the enchanting Shikoku Village, an open-air museum in Takamatsu, where tradition meets nature in a captivating cultural experience.

Elena was particularly captivated by the old kabuki theater, imagining herself on stage in a colorful kimono. Maximilian, meanwhile, was fascinated by the engineering of the traditional buildings, marveling at the craftsmanship that had allowed them to stand for centuries. I loved the serene atmosphere of the village, the way the sunlight filtered through the trees, and the sense of stepping back in time. It was a truly immersive experience, offering a tangible connection to Japan's past.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself. - Danny Kaye

After immersing ourselves in history, it was time to ascend to new heights – quite literally. We drove to the Kurushima Strait Observatory, located in Itoyama Park, near Imabari. The drive itself was stunning, winding along the coast with breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea. As we approached the observatory, the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge came into view, a magnificent feat of engineering that spans the strait.


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

The Kurushima Strait Observatory offers panoramic views of the Kurushima Strait and the bridge, the world's first triple suspension bridge. The observatory was designed by Kengo Kuma, a world-renowned architect who was also involved in the design of the New National Stadium. From the observation deck, we watched as ships of all sizes navigated the swift currents of the strait, the bridge looming majestically in the background. Maximilian, of course, was in his element, pointing out the various engineering features of the bridge and explaining how it was built to withstand earthquakes and typhoons. Elena simply enjoyed the view, pointing out the different boats and islands in the distance.


I was struck by the sheer scale of the bridge, a testament to human ingenuity and determination. It felt like a symbol of connection, linking not just two landmasses, but also the past and the future. The Seto Inland Sea sparkled under the afternoon sun, creating a scene of breathtaking beauty. It was a moment of pure awe, a reminder of the power and beauty of both nature and human creation.


Our next stop was the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore, nestled in the Iya Valley. This museum offered a different kind of historical experience, one that focused on the lives of the Heike samurai who fled to this remote valley after being defeated in the Genpei War in the 12th century. The museum is housed in a traditional thatched-roof house, built in 1867, which belonged to the descendants of the Heike samurai.


Explore the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore, where the intriguing tales of Japan's Heike clan come alive through captivating exhibits and serene surroundings.

As we stepped inside, we were greeted by the smell of woodsmoke and the sight of a traditional irori hearth, where a fire is lit daily. The house was filled with antique furniture, tools, and other artifacts, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Heike people who lived here for centuries. Elena was fascinated by the old samurai armor, imagining herself as a warrior princess. Maximilian, meanwhile, was intrigued by the traditional farming tools, wondering how they were used to cultivate the steep mountain slopes.


I was moved by the story of the Heike samurai, their resilience and determination to preserve their way of life in the face of adversity. The museum felt like a sanctuary, a place where the past was still alive and breathing. As we walked through the garden, we admired the ancient trees, some of which are said to be over 800 years old, dating back to the time when the Heike first settled in the valley.


For lunch, we stopped at Hakkenden Nankoku Osone. I decided to try the local specialty, Katsuo no Tataki (seared bonito). The fish was incredibly fresh and flavorful, perfectly seared on the outside and still rare on the inside. Maximilian, being less adventurous, opted for a tempura udon, which he declared to be delicious. Elena happily munched on some onigiri (rice balls), her favorite Japanese snack.


Discover authentic yakitori and traditional izakaya dining at Hakkenden Nankoku Osone – a must-visit culinary gem in Kochi.

As evening approached, we headed back to Takamatsu for dinner at Ombelico. After a day steeped in tradition, it was a welcome change of pace to enjoy some delicious Italian cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the aroma of wood-fired pizza filled the air. We ordered a Margherita pizza to share, and Elena devoured it with gusto. Maximilian and I shared a pasta dish, perfectly al dente and bursting with flavor.


Discover Ombelico in Tosa: where authentic Italian cuisine meets Japanese hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.

To cap off the evening, Maximilian and I decided to check out the Irish Pub Amontillado. It was a cozy spot with a good selection of beers and a friendly atmosphere. We enjoyed a pint of Guinness and chatted about our adventures of the day, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Shikoku Island. Elena, of course, was fast asleep back at our accommodation, dreaming of samurai princesses and ancient villages.


Discover the charm of Irish Pub Amontillado in Kochi, where traditional izakaya meets the warmth of Irish hospitality, offering a unique dining experience.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our Shikoku adventure, and we plan to make the most of it. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Ōboke Gorge, a boat trip down the river, and a stop at the Ryugado Museum. I'm also hoping to squeeze in a visit to Aji Ryuozan Park, known for its stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. It's going to be a busy day, but I'm excited to see what other hidden gems Shikoku has in store for us.


As I reflect on today's experiences, I'm struck by the way that travel can connect us to the past, the present, and the future. By immersing ourselves in different cultures and landscapes, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. And that, to me, is the true magic of travel.


And with that, it's time to bid goodnight from Shikoku Island. Until tomorrow, happy travels!