Family Adventure on Shikoku Island: A Cultural Journey in Japan

A Day of Bridges and Heights in Tokushima

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of nature's raw power and human ingenuity. We journeyed through the heart of Shikoku, experiencing the thrill of ancient vine bridges, the serenity of mountain vistas, and the warmth of local hospitality. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to immerse myself in the unique tapestry of cultures and landscapes that our world offers.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Munagin - a local spot known for its traditional Japanese fare. Fuelled up and ready for adventure, we set off to explore the Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge.


Discover the breathtaking Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge in Tokushima, Japan—a unique blend of adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes.
The drive itself was an experience, winding through lush mountain roads with breathtaking views at every turn. As we approached the bridges, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge is not just one bridge, but two separate bridges, known as the Husband and Wife Bridges. These aren't your average crossings; they're ancient structures made of woven vines, suspended high above a rushing river.

Walking onto the first bridge, the 'Male' bridge, was a bit of a thrill. The bridge swayed gently with each step, and the gaps between the vines offered glimpses of the water below. I could feel a slight nervousness, but also an immense sense of excitement. Maya, of course, was fearless, running ahead with Liam close behind. The 'Female' bridge was shorter, but no less exciting. It was amazing to think that these bridges were originally built centuries ago as a means of accessing remote areas.

The thrill of crossing ancient vine bridges connects us to the ingenuity and resilience of past generations.

After conquering the vine bridges, we decided to try the Wild Monkey, a human-powered ropeway next to the 'Female' bridge. This was definitely a unique experience! We climbed into a small wooden basket and used a hand-pulled rope to cross over the gorge. It required a bit of muscle, but the views and the sheer novelty of it all made it incredibly fun. Maya was laughing the entire time, and even Liam, who usually prefers solid ground, couldn't help but crack a smile.

We spent some time exploring the area around the bridges, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning natural scenery. The fresh mountain air and the sound of the river were incredibly refreshing. I even managed to find a few minutes to sketch in my travel journal, capturing the essence of this magical place.

For lunch, we stopped at Eki-mae Shokudo. This restaurant offered an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We tried a variety of local dishes, savoring the fresh, seasonal ingredients and the unique flavors of the Kochi region.

In the afternoon, we drove to Tokushima City, eager to experience a different side of Shikoku. Our destination was Mount Bizan, a symbol of Tokushima. We took the Bizan Ropeway, a cable car that whisked us to the summit in just a few minutes.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tokushima from above with a ride on the Bizan Ropeway, a must-visit attraction for all travelers.
The views from the ropeway were spectacular, offering a panoramic perspective of the city and the surrounding landscape.

At the summit, we were greeted by even more breathtaking views. From the observation deck, we could see Tokushima City sprawling below us, the Yoshino River snaking its way through the landscape, and even Awaji Island and the Kii Peninsula in the distance. The mountain's name, which translates to eyebrow, is quite fitting, as its elongated shape does resemble one.

Maya was fascinated by the various monuments and statues at the summit, each with its own story to tell. We spent some time exploring the area, taking photos, and simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. I found myself reflecting on the journey so far, feeling grateful for the opportunity to share these incredible experiences with my family.

Before heading down, we made a quick stop at the Mountain bookshop. It was a small, charming shop filled with local literature and souvenirs. I picked up a few postcards to send to friends back home, eager to share our adventures with them.


Explore the tranquil Mountain Bookshop in Kochi, where books and coffee meet in a picturesque setting, perfect for relaxation and inspiration.
As evening approached, we made our way to Tosa Rokkon for dinner. This restaurant is known for its authentic Japanese cuisine and its use of local ingredients. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly attentive. We enjoyed a delicious meal, savoring the flavors of Shikoku and reminiscing about the day's adventures.

While enjoying dinner, we discussed our plans for tomorrow. We're heading to Ioki Cave and Amegaeri Waterfall. I'm particularly excited about Ioki Cave, as I've heard it's a fascinating geological formation with stunning natural beauty. And of course, I'm always up for a good waterfall hike!

Today was a reminder of the simple joys of travel: the thrill of discovery, the beauty of nature, and the warmth of human connection. As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience these incredible moments with my family. Shikoku Island continues to surprise and delight us at every turn, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, before we head out to explore Ioki Cave and Amegaeri Waterfall, we will have breakfast at Hakkenden Nankoku Osone. And in the evening, after a day of exploring, we are planning to check out Irish Pub Amontillado. It will be nice to relax and unwind with a drink after a long day of hiking and sightseeing.

Good night from Tokushima!