Exploring the Serenity and Culture of Shikoku Island

Echoes of the Past and Whispers of the Sea

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the somber reflections of history with the invigorating freshness of coastal vistas. It's amazing how much perspective you can gain by immersing yourself in different facets of a region, and Shikoku continues to deliver on that front. From ancient samurai tales to panoramic ocean views, today was a feast for the senses and the mind.

My day began, as many do, with a quest for local flavors. Breakfast at Inonakanokawazu was a delightful experience. The restaurant had a cozy, traditional feel, and the breakfast set was a work of art. I savored every bite, from the perfectly grilled fish to the subtly sweet tamagoyaki. It was a hearty and satisfying way to fuel up for the day's explorations.


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

After breakfast, I set off to the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore. The museum is nestled in the Iya Valley, a region known for its stunning natural beauty and its historical significance as a refuge for the Heike clan after their defeat in the Genpei War. The drive itself was an experience, winding through lush green mountains and past traditional villages.


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

The museum is housed in a beautifully preserved traditional home, once belonging to a high-ranking Heike official. Stepping inside felt like stepping back in time. The dimly lit rooms were filled with artifacts from the Heike period: armor, weapons, documents, and everyday objects that offered a glimpse into the lives of these fallen samurai. As I wandered through the exhibits, I couldn't help but feel a sense of melancholy. These were once powerful warriors, now reduced to relics in a museum.

History is a relentless storyteller, weaving tales of triumph and tragedy, reminding us of the impermanence of power and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

The Heike clan's story is a fascinating one. After their defeat by the Minamoto clan in the late 12th century, many Heike warriors fled to remote regions of Japan, including the Iya Valley. They sought refuge in these mountains, hoping to rebuild their strength and eventually reclaim their lost glory. But their dreams were never realized, and the Heike faded into history, their legacy preserved only in stories and artifacts.

The museum did a fantastic job of bringing their story to life. I was particularly moved by the personal accounts of Heike soldiers and their families, which were displayed alongside the artifacts. These stories painted a vivid picture of their struggles, their hopes, and their fears. It was a humbling experience to stand in the very place where these people had lived and died, and to contemplate the weight of their history.

Leaving the museum, I felt a deep sense of respect for the Heike clan and their resilience in the face of adversity. Their story is a reminder that even in defeat, there is dignity and honor to be found.

From the somber reflections of the Heike Yashiki Museum, I journeyed to the Kurushima Strait Observatory, seeking a change of pace and scenery. The observatory is located on a hilltop overlooking the Kurushima Strait, a narrow waterway connecting the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean. It's a strategic location, offering panoramic views of the strait, the surrounding islands, and the majestic Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge, the world's first triple suspension bridge.


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

The drive to the observatory was another scenic adventure, winding along the coast and through charming seaside towns. As I climbed the hill leading to the observatory, the views became increasingly breathtaking. The turquoise waters of the strait sparkled in the afternoon sun, and the islands looked like emerald jewels scattered across the sea.

Reaching the observatory, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge. It's a marvel of engineering, stretching across the strait in a graceful arc, connecting the island of Shikoku with the mainland of Japan. From the observatory, I could see ships of all sizes passing beneath the bridge, a testament to the strait's importance as a major shipping lane.

I spent a long time at the observatory, simply soaking in the views and enjoying the fresh sea breeze. It was a perfect day for photography, and I snapped dozens of photos of the bridge, the islands, and the surrounding landscape. I also took some time to learn about the history and ecology of the strait, which is home to a diverse array of marine life.

As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The bridge was illuminated with twinkling lights, creating a magical scene that I'll never forget. It was the perfect ending to a day that had been filled with both historical reflection and natural beauty.

Before heading back to my accommodation, I stopped by Island Mishima for a bit of shopping. I picked up a few local souvenirs for my family and friends back in Hamburg, including some handcrafted pottery and some locally produced snacks. It's always nice to bring back a little piece of the places I visit, to share the experience with those I care about.


Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Island Mishima, where local culture meets modern retail in the heart of Ehime.

For dinner, I treated myself to a meal at Tosa Rokkon, a restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Japanese cuisine. I decided to try their signature dish, the Katsuo Tataki, which is seared skipjack tuna served with a variety of local sauces and condiments. The tuna was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the sauces added a delightful complexity to the dish. It was a culinary experience that I won't soon forget.


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

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. Shikoku has exceeded all of my expectations. It's a place of incredible beauty, rich history, and warm, welcoming people. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when I'll be exploring the Yoshinobu Rice Terraces and the Amegaeri Waterfall. It promises to be another day of adventure and discovery, and I can't wait to see what Shikoku has in store for me.

I'm also planning to check out Bar Salvador tomorrow evening. It's always nice to unwind with a drink after a long day of exploring, and I'm eager to experience the local nightlife.

Until then, sayōnara!