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

Echoes of the Past, Rhythms of the Present

Today was a delightful blend of natural wonders, spiritual reflection, and a touch of unexpected Irish charm. Shikoku Island continues to surprise and enchant us with its diverse offerings. It's hard to believe we're already on Day 8 of our family adventure; time really does fly when you're immersed in new experiences.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Eki-mae Shokudo. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. Pieter chose the omelet, while Alessia enjoyed a bowl of warm rice with nori. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant, filled with locals starting their day, was a comforting way to ease into our own adventures.


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

Fueled and ready, we set off to explore the Ryugado Museum. The museum itself is an open-air experience, nestled near one of Japan's most impressive limestone caves. As we wandered through the exhibits, Alessia was fascinated by the displays explaining the cave's geology and the creatures that inhabit it. I found myself particularly drawn to the artifacts from ancient cave dwellers, imagining what life must have been like here thousands of years ago.


Discover the rich cultural heritage of Kochi at the Ryugado Museum, where history comes alive through captivating exhibits and local artistry.

Sometimes, the most unexpected journeys lead to the most profound discoveries.

After the museum, we ventured into the Ryugado Cave itself. The temperature dropped noticeably as we entered, a welcome respite from the summer heat. The cave is a breathtaking natural wonder, with stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. Alessia's eyes widened as she gazed at the illuminated formations, her imagination running wild with stories of dragons and hidden treasures. We opted for the less adventurous tourist course, but I learned that there's also an adventure course where you can squeeze through narrow spaces and climb wooden ladders, which sounds like quite the thrill. Perhaps next time, when Alessia is a bit older!

Leaving the cool depths of Ryugado, we drove towards Dainichi Temple. As the 28th temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, it exuded a sense of history and spiritual significance. The temple grounds were serene, with meticulously maintained gardens and ancient trees providing shade. We watched as pilgrims, dressed in white robes, chanted sutras and offered prayers. It was a humbling experience to witness their devotion and feel the palpable sense of peace that permeated the air. Alessia, ever curious, tried to imitate their chants, which brought a smile to the faces of some of the pilgrims.


Discover the tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage of Dainichi Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary in Konan, Kochi.

For lunch, we stopped at Inonakanokawazu, a restaurant known for its authentic Japanese flavors. I savored a delicate set meal featuring local Kochi specialties, while Pieter enjoyed a hearty bowl of ramen. Alessia, as always, was happy with her simple but delicious onigiri (rice balls). The restaurant had a cozy, traditional atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Inonakanokawazu in Kami, Kochi – a true taste of tradition awaits you.

As evening approached, we found ourselves in the heart of Kochi city, ready for dinner. Yoronotaki Gomenten, an Izakaya, was our choice for dinner. As we ate, we sampled local dishes and enjoyed the lively atmosphere.


Discover the charm of traditional Japanese izakaya dining at Yoronotaki Gomenten in Nankoku, Kochi - where flavor meets culture.

But the day wasn't over yet! We decided to embrace something completely different and ventured into the Irish Pub Amontillado. Tucked away in the bustling arcade district of Kochi, this pub offered an unexpected slice of Ireland in the middle of Japan. The warm, welcoming ambiance was a stark contrast to the traditional Japanese settings we had experienced earlier in the day. Pieter, being Dutch, has a fondness for pubs, and he was immediately drawn to the impressive selection of beers. I opted for a tomato cocktail, intrigued by the local twist on a classic drink. Alessia, of course, was delighted with her orange juice and a plate of fish and chips. The pub was filled with a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the cheerful atmosphere and the lively music.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Dragon Rock and the Otoyo Yone Rice Terraces. It's another day filled with natural beauty and cultural experiences, 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 on Shikoku Island.