Family Adventure on Shikoku Island: Exploring Japan's Hidden Gem
Day 1: Whirlwinds, Walkways, and Wonderful Eats: My First Day Exploring Shikoku!
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Shikoku! Discover the magic of Naruto Whirlpools, local cuisine, and cultural treasures.
Day 1: Chasing Watery Giants in Naruto!
The first day of our family adventure on Shikoku Island was an absolute whirlwind – quite literally! From the moment we touched down and ventured out, I knew this trip would be something special. Shikoku has already captivated me with its blend of natural beauty and rich culture. It felt good to finally be on this journey I've been planning for months, and I couldn't wait to dive into everything this island had to offer.
Our morning started with a quest for the perfect traditional Japanese breakfast. Pieter, Alessia, and I were all excited to taste some authentic cuisine, and I had just the place in mind.
A Hearty Start at Hattorikun
Hattorikun was a cozy little spot, bustling with locals starting their day. The aroma of grilled fish and miso filled the air, instantly making my stomach rumble. I opted for the traditional Japanese breakfast set, which included a perfectly grilled piece of fish, savory miso soup, fluffy rice, and an assortment of pickled vegetables. Alessia, surprisingly, was quite adventurous and enjoyed the rice and fish, while Pieter happily devoured everything in sight. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring! I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back home in Haarlem, maybe with a Dutch twist.
Chasing the Naruto Whirlpools
With our bellies full, we set off to see the famed Naruto Whirlpools. I had read so much about this natural phenomenon, and I was eager to witness it firsthand. The Naruto Strait, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Seto Inland Sea, creates these incredible whirlpools due to the strong tidal currents. I knew that timing was crucial, as the whirlpools are best viewed during high and low tide.
Discover the breathtaking Naruto Whirlpools in Tokushima, Japan, where natural forces create stunning tidal whirlpools and scenic beauty.
Uzu-no-Michi Walkway: A Bird's-Eye View
Our first stop was the Tokushima Prefectural Uzu-no-Michi Walkway. This walkway extends under the Onaruto Bridge, offering a unique vantage point 45 meters above the swirling waters. Walking along the glass-floored section was both exhilarating and slightly terrifying! Looking down, we could see the whirlpools forming and dissipating with tremendous power. Alessia was particularly fascinated, pointing and exclaiming every time a new whirlpool appeared. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer force of nature on display. Even Pieter, who usually remains calm, was visibly impressed.
Discover the mesmerizing Uzu-no-Michi Walkway, where stunning views of the Naruto Whirlpools and lush landscapes await every visitor.
Sometimes, the most incredible experiences are the ones that remind us of the raw, untamed power of nature.
Lunch with a View at Restaurant Obokekyo Mannaka
After the exhilarating experience at Uzu-no-Michi Walkway, we were ready for lunch. We drove to Restaurant Obokekyo Mannaka, nestled near the Oboke Gorge. This restaurant is known for its picturesque views and local cuisine. The ordering system was quite unique; we had to select our dishes from a machine using numbered tickets. I chose a local set meal featuring fresh seafood and mountain vegetables, while Pieter opted for a hearty pork dish. Alessia was happy with a simple bowl of udon noodles. The food was delicious, and the view of the gorge was simply breathtaking. It was a perfect spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty of Shikoku.
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Restaurant Obokekyo Mannaka in Miyoshi - a hidden gem offering traditional dishes in a cozy setting.
A Taste of Local Crafts at Shikoku Shop 88
With our appetites satisfied, we decided to do some souvenir shopping. I wanted to find something special to remember our first day on Shikoku. We headed to Shikoku Shop 88, known for its wide array of local crafts and specialties. The shop was a treasure trove of unique items, from traditional ceramics to local snacks. I picked up a beautiful hand-painted teacup for myself and some local sweets for friends back home. Alessia chose a cute little Daruma doll as a reminder of our trip.
Explore Shikoku Shop 88 for unique souvenirs and local delicacies that embody the spirit of Takamatsu and the Shikoku region.
Dinner at Tataki Kobo: A Culinary Highlight
As evening approached, we made our way to Tataki Kobo for dinner. This restaurant specializes in *katsuo no tataki* (seared bonito), a local delicacy that I was eager to try. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a selection of dishes, including the signature seared bonito. The presentation was stunning, and the aroma of the straw-smoked fish was intoxicating. The first bite was an explosion of flavor – the smoky char, the rich fish, and the tangy ponzu sauce created a symphony of tastes that danced on my palate. It was, without a doubt, one of the best things I've eaten so far. Alessia even tried a small piece and declared it delicious! Pieter and I enjoyed some local sake, which paired perfectly with the meal.
Discover authentic flavors at Tataki Kobo in Kochi—a must-visit Japanese regional restaurant showcasing local culinary delights.
Reflections on Day One
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but smile as I think about our adventures today. From the exhilarating experience of witnessing the Naruto Whirlpools to the delicious flavors of local cuisine, every moment was filled with wonder and delight. I am so grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful island with my family. Tomorrow, we're off to explore the serene Ritsurin Garden and the charming Shikoku Village in Takamatsu [Day 2 Itinerary]. I'm particularly excited to wander through Ritsurin Garden, known for its stunning landscapes and meticulously manicured gardens. I've also heard great things about Shikoku Village, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Shikoku architecture. We'll be having breakfast at Kohanyu, lunch at Yuzuan Restaurant, and dinner at Osusowake Shokudo Mado. I'm also planning to do some shopping at Minami-Shinmachi Shopping Street. I can't wait to see what new adventures and culinary delights await us!
Until then, *ciao* from Shikoku!
Go to day 2
A Day of Serene Gardens and Cultural Immersion in Takamatsu
Family Adventure on Shikoku Island: Exploring Japan's Hidden Gem
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Embark on a 12-day family journey to Shikoku Island, Japan's hidden gem, known for its temples, cuisine, and cultural experiences.
Meet this Featured Explorer
Sofia Romano
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Occupation:
Freelance Translator
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Country:
Netherlands
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Age:
33
Ciao, amici! I'm Sofia, an Italian expat living in the Netherlands with my wonderful family. My blog, Evendo, is where I share my passion for exploring the world, one adventure at a time. Whether it's uncovering hidden gems in Europe or venturing further afield, I'm always seeking authentic cultural experiences and sustainable travel practices. Join me as I navigate the joys and challenges of family travel, share my favorite recipes inspired by my journeys, and offer tips to help you create your own unforgettable memories.
Interests:
- Photography
- History
- Culinary Arts
- Sustainable Living
- Interior Design
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