Family Adventure on Shikoku Island: A Cultural Journey in Japan

Karst and Cascades: A Day of Wonders

Today was all about embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Shikoku. We ventured into the island's heart, seeking out panoramic vistas and the soothing sounds of cascading water. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the chance to disconnect from the everyday and immerse ourselves in nature's grandeur.



Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Inonakanokawazu. The traditional Japanese fare was the perfect fuel for the adventures that lay ahead. Maya was especially fond of the tamagoyaki, and Liam appreciated the strong coffee. I savored the moment, knowing that a day of exploration awaited us.



First on the agenda was the Shikoku Karst , a place I'd been eagerly anticipating since planning this trip. As we drove higher and higher, the landscape transformed. Gone were the rice paddies and bustling towns, replaced by rolling green meadows dotted with striking limestone formations. It felt like we'd been transported to another world, a place where the sky felt closer and the air was crisper. The views were simply breathtaking. The karst is a massive limestone plateau that stretches for about 25 kilometers. Being one of Japan's three major karsts, the views from the top were indeed spectacular.



Discover the breathtaking beauty of Shikoku Karst, a unique tourist attraction in Japan perfect for hiking and enjoying scenic landscapes.
We parked the car and took a leisurely stroll along the ridgeline, soaking in the panoramic vistas. The kids were fascinated by the limestone outcrops, which looked like giant sheep grazing on the hillside. I couldn't resist snapping photos at every turn, trying to capture the sheer scale and beauty of the landscape. The road we were driving on, Route 383, is also known as “tenkū no michi”, the road in the sky, because the clouds feel close at hand.

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't know you needed.

After working up an appetite exploring the Karst, we headed to Restaurant Obokekyo Mannaka for lunch. Nestled in the Oboke Gorge, the restaurant offered stunning views to accompany our meal. We indulged in local specialties, savoring the flavors of Shikoku. Liam tried the Iya Soba, a regional buckwheat noodle dish, while Maya opted for a simpler udon. I enjoyed a delicious set meal featuring fresh seafood and mountain vegetables. Hotel Obokekyo Mannaka is nearby, and owns the Oboke Cruise. The location of the restaurant was rated highly, with an impressive 8.0 score.


With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for our next destination: Todoroki Falls. The drive took us through winding mountain roads, each turn revealing new and captivating scenery. As we approached the falls, we could hear the distant roar of the water, building anticipation for the natural wonder that awaited us. It is one of the best 100 waterfalls in Japan.



Experience the serene beauty of Todoroki Falls, a breathtaking natural attraction in Tokushima, Japan, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
When we finally arrived, the sight of Todoroki Falls took our breath away. The water cascaded down from a height of 70 meters, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of power and grace. We crossed a suspension bridge to get closer to the basin of the waterfall. The mist from the falls kissed our faces as we stood in awe, feeling the refreshing spray on our skin. Maya was particularly thrilled, her eyes wide with wonder as she watched the water plunge into the pool below. Todoroki literally translates to “roaring” in Japanese, which is an accurate way to describe this natural wonder.


We spent a good hour simply enjoying the falls, taking photos and reveling in the tranquility of the surroundings. There's something incredibly calming about being near water, and Todoroki Falls was no exception. It was the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.



Before heading back to our accommodation, we made a quick stop at Plugs Market Kochi Store in Kochi. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to remember our time on Shikoku. The store had a delightful array of local crafts and unique gifts. I found a beautiful hand-painted fan for my mother and a set of wooden toys for Maya. It's always nice to support local artisans and bring a piece of our travels back home with us.



Explore the vibrant Plugs Market Kochi Store for unique gifts, trendy cosmetics, and eclectic home goods in the heart of Kochi.
For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a special meal at Tosa Rokkon. This restaurant is known for its modern take on traditional Tosa cuisine, and it didn't disappoint. We savored each dish, marveling at the innovative flavors and beautiful presentation. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day. Tosa Rokkon offers a unique dining experience that perfectly blends traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques.



Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Tosa Rokkon in Kami, Kochi - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of Shikoku. From the panoramic vistas of the Karst to the cascading waters of Todoroki Falls, every moment was a feast for the senses. And to share it all with my family made it even more special.



Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Statues of the Three Tosa Samurai and Lake Sameura. I'm excited to delve deeper into the history and culture of this fascinating island. And who knows what other hidden gems we'll discover along the way? I am also hoping to check out BAR OOKUNI tomorrow night. I've heard good things.



Good night from Shikoku!