Family Adventure on Shikoku Island: A Cultural Journey in Japan

A Day of Discovery in Takamatsu

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Shikoku's history and natural beauty. From exploring traditional architecture to wandering through meticulously landscaped gardens, Takamatsu offered a wealth of experiences that captivated Liam, Maya, and me. It's amazing how much you can learn and appreciate when you slow down and immerse yourself in a new culture. This trip is not just a vacation; it's an education for all of us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Eki-mae Shokudo, a local spot near the station. The atmosphere was bustling with locals starting their day, and the simple, yet delicious Japanese breakfast set the perfect tone for our adventures. Maya was particularly fond of the tamagoyaki, a sweet rolled omelet. Fully energized, we set off to explore Shikoku Village.


Explore the enchanting Shikoku Village, an open-air museum in Takamatsu, where tradition meets nature in a captivating cultural experience.

Stepping into History at Shikoku Village

Shikoku Village is an open-air museum that brings together traditional buildings and structures from all over Shikoku Island. As we wandered through the village, we were transported back to the Edo and Meiji periods. The farmhouses, storehouses, and workshops offered a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who lived and worked here centuries ago.

Maya was particularly intrigued by the sugar mill and the soy sauce production facility. It was fascinating to see the tools and techniques used to create these everyday staples. Liam, ever the engineer, was impressed by the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the traditional architecture. The buildings, dating back to the Edo and Meiji periods, have been carefully preserved and offer a unique insight into the past.

One of the highlights was the vine suspension bridge, reminiscent of those found in the Iya Valley. Although reinforced with steel cables for safety, it still gave us a sense of the daring feats of engineering of the past. As we crossed the bridge, Maya squealed with delight, pretending she was an adventurer exploring a hidden world.

Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences come from simply slowing down and appreciating the details of a place.

The Shikoku Village also features an art gallery designed by Tadao Ando, showcasing a collection of sculptures, Buddha images, and modern paintings. The contrast between the traditional buildings and the modern art was striking, highlighting the blend of old and new that defines Japan. The gallery also offered a stunning view of the surrounding city, providing a moment of reflection amidst our exploration.

After immersing ourselves in the history and culture of Shikoku Village, we were ready for a change of pace. We hopped on a local bus and made our way to Ritsurin Garden, eager to experience one of Japan's most celebrated traditional gardens.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Ritsurin Garden, a historical gem in Takamatsu, showcasing Japan's exquisite landscape design and seasonal charm.

A Stroll Through Paradise: Ritsurin Garden

Ritsurin Garden is a sprawling oasis of meticulously manicured landscapes, serene ponds, and historic teahouses. Originally created in the 17th century as a private garden for the local feudal lords, it was opened to the public in 1875 and has since become one of the most popular attractions in Takamatsu. As we entered the garden, we were immediately struck by the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.

The garden is designed as a strolling garden, with paths winding around ponds, over bridges, and past carefully shaped pine trees. The southern portion of the garden is in traditional Japanese style, with historic teahouses and meticulously maintained pine trees. We strolled along the paths, marveling at the artistry and precision of the landscaping. The carefully shaped pine trees, some of which are centuries old, were particularly impressive.

One of the most iconic features of Ritsurin Garden is the Engetsukyo Bridge, a crescent-shaped bridge that reflects beautifully in the water. We paused here to take photos and soak in the picturesque scene. The reflection of the bridge in the pond created a perfect circle, a symbol of harmony and balance.

We decided to take a boat tour on the Nanko (South Pond). Gliding across the water, we gained a new perspective on the garden, appreciating the way the landscape was designed to be viewed from different angles. The boat ride was a relaxing and enjoyable experience, and Maya was thrilled to be on the water.

After our boat tour, we explored the northern part of the garden, which features Western-style redesigns from when the garden became public in 1875. Although these sections were interesting, we found ourselves drawn back to the traditional Japanese areas, where the history and culture of the garden were most palpable.

As the afternoon wore on, we found a charming teahouse overlooking one of the ponds and enjoyed a traditional tea ceremony. Sipping matcha and savoring delicate sweets, we reflected on the beauty and serenity of Ritsurin Garden. It was a perfect way to end our visit, leaving us feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Shopping and Culinary Delights

With our cultural and natural explorations complete, we ventured into the heart of Takamatsu to experience the local shopping scene. We strolled along Minami-Shinmachi Shopping Street, a bustling arcade offering a mix of local shops and modern stores.


Minami-Shinmachi Shopping Street: A vibrant shopping destination in Takamatsu with local boutiques, delicious dining, and cultural experiences.

The vibrant atmosphere was infectious, and we enjoyed browsing the various shops and sampling local snacks.

Minami-Shinmachi had a laid-back and folksy feel. We found shops catering to the needs of local residents and chain restaurants offering affordable meals. It was interesting to see the contrast between this local shopping street and the more upscale areas near Takamatsu Castle.

For lunch, we stopped at Inonakanokawazu, a restaurant recommended by a local we met at Shikoku Village. The restaurant specialized in local cuisine, and we enjoyed a delicious meal of fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables. Maya tried udon for the first time and declared it her new favorite food.


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

As evening approached, we made our way to Tosa Rokkon for dinner. This restaurant offered a modern take on traditional Japanese cuisine, and we savored every bite of our carefully prepared dishes. The ambiance was elegant and refined, providing a perfect setting for a special family meal.


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

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. Immersing ourselves in the local culture, exploring historical sites, and savoring delicious food created lasting memories for our family. I am so grateful for these shared experiences and the opportunity to learn and grow together.

Tomorrow, we're planning to venture into the Iya Valley, known for its remote mountain villages and vine bridges. I've heard the drive can be a bit challenging, but the scenery is well worth the effort. I'm particularly excited to see the Kazurabashi Vine Bridge and experience the tranquility of this hidden gem in Shikoku. I am also making sure I have my camera ready to capture the beauty of the valley, and I've packed extra memory cards, learning from my oversight at the beginning of the trip. Hopefully, we will find some good restaurants there too, after all, one must eat!

Until tomorrow!