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

A Day of Swirls and Masterpieces

Today was nothing short of spectacular! Shikoku Island continues to surprise and enchant us with its unique blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures. From the thrilling Naruto Whirlpools to the awe-inspiring Otsuka Museum of Art, every moment was filled with amazement. And let's not forget the delicious food we enjoyed along the way! I'm so excited to share the highlights of our day with you.

Our day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Kohanyu. Maximilian and Elena were particularly fond of the traditional miso soup and grilled fish. I, of course, enjoyed the Tamagoyaki, which is one of my favorites. Fuelled up and ready for adventure, we set off to witness the famed Naruto Whirlpools.


Discover the breathtaking Naruto Whirlpools in Tokushima, Japan, where natural forces create stunning tidal whirlpools and scenic beauty.

Chasing the Naruto Whirlpools

The Naruto Strait, a narrow channel between Shikoku and Awaji Island, is where the magic happens. Twice a day, the tides create these incredible whirlpools as water rushes between the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean. We decided to experience them from the Tokushima Prefectural Uzu-no-Michi Walkway.


Discover the mesmerizing Uzu-no-Michi Walkway, where stunning views of the Naruto Whirlpools and lush landscapes await every visitor.

Walking along the Uzu-no-Michi Walkway, which is built under the Onaruto Bridge, was an experience in itself. The walkway has glass floor panels that allow you to look directly down at the swirling waters 45 meters below. Elena was a little nervous at first, but soon she was pointing and giggling as we spotted the whirlpools forming.

The sheer power of nature was humbling. These weren't just little ripples; they were massive, swirling vortexes that seemed to defy gravity. I was so glad we checked the tide charts beforehand to make sure we were there during peak viewing time. It’s definitely something you have to plan for, but trust me, it’s worth it!

The beauty and power of nature are on full display at the Naruto Whirlpools, a reminder of the incredible forces that shape our world.

After the excitement of the whirlpools, we were ready for a change of pace. Our next stop was the Otsuka Museum of Art.


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.

A Journey Through Art History

The Otsuka Museum of Art is not your typical museum. It boasts over 1,000 full-size ceramic reproductions of Western masterpieces. Yes, you read that right – ceramic! This unique approach allows visitors to experience art in a whole new way. The museum was built in 1998 to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Company.

As we stepped inside, we were immediately transported to another world. The sheer scale of the museum is impressive; it’s the largest exhibition space in Japan. We wandered through halls filled with reproductions of iconic works, from ancient murals to Renaissance masterpieces.

One of the highlights was the Sistine Chapel replica. Standing in the presence of Michelangelo's masterpiece, even in reproduction, was breathtaking. Elena was fascinated by the vibrant colors and the stories depicted on the ceiling. It was a wonderful opportunity to introduce her to the world of art in such an immersive way.

We also explored reproductions of the Villa dei Misteri from Pompeii and Monet's Water Lilies. The museum’s collection spans across different time periods and artistic movements, offering a comprehensive overview of Western art history. I particularly enjoyed seeing the reproductions of artworks that were destroyed during the war, like the original Last Supper. It’s a testament to the power of art and preservation.

After hours of exploring, we were definitely ready for a break. Luckily, the museum has a lovely café where we enjoyed some refreshments and discussed our favorite pieces.

A Taste of Tokushima

For lunch, we headed to Hattorikun, a local restaurant known for its delicious and comforting dishes. Maximilian, always the adventurous one, ordered the Naruto Tai Udon, a local specialty featuring thick noodles in a flavorful broth. Elena opted for a simpler dish of tempura, which she happily devoured. I decided to try the Awa beef, which was tender and incredibly flavorful. We even found Ninja Hattori-kun themed lunch boxes, which Elena absolutely loved !


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Hattorikun in Nankoku – where Italy meets Japan in every delicious bite.

After a satisfying lunch, we did a little shopping at Shikoku Shop 88. I was hoping to find a portable phone charger since I forgot mine, but no luck! I did pick up some local crafts and souvenirs [TripEssentials]. Elena chose a cute little Daruma doll to remind her of our trip. These dolls are seen as good luck [TripEssentials].


Explore Shikoku Shop 88 for unique souvenirs and local delicacies that embody the spirit of Takamatsu and the Shikoku region.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Tosa Rokkon for dinner. This restaurant is known for its authentic Japanese cuisine and warm atmosphere. We started with some fresh sashimi, followed by grilled fish and a selection of local vegetables. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day. The name “Rokkon” literally means “six souls” from the kanji characters, but I am advised by a Japanese friend that in this context it means the six feelings that a human has in their soul or spirit.


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

It reminded me of a similar restaurant in Chiswick, London, called Tosa. Funny enough, there is also a restaurant called Rokkon in Chiswick !

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Iya Valley and its famous Vine Bridge [IfTomorrow]. I’ve heard it’s a truly unique and unforgettable experience, and I can’t wait to share it with you all. For now, though, it’s time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure.

I am really looking forward to visiting the Mountain bookshop tomorrow [IfTomorrow]!

Even though there were no specific events happening in Tokushima today , the day was action packed. Sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones that unfold organically, guided by curiosity and a desire to explore.

Until tomorrow!

Reflections on the Road

As I reflect on our day, I’m struck by the incredible diversity of experiences that Shikoku Island has to offer. From the raw power of the Naruto Whirlpools to the artistic grandeur of the Otsuka Museum of Art, there’s something here to captivate every traveler. And as much as I love seeing these amazing places, I am also grateful for the more quiet moments with my family.

And the food! I will definitely be attempting to recreate some of these dishes back home in Germany. Perhaps I can even find some Awa beef to bring back with me. I'm also reminded of how fortunate I am to be able to share these adventures with Maximilian and Elena. Their laughter and excitement make every moment even more special. I am so grateful that they are in my life.

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta