SHIKOKU ISLAND JAPAN

You’ve likely heard the buzz about Tokyo’s neon lights, Kyoto’s ancient grace, and the bullet train that blurs it all together. But if you’re drawn to the places in between — to slow, story-rich corners where tradition is lived rather than displayed — then let us introduce you to Shikoku.

This isn’t a checklist destination. It’s a deeply rewarding immersion into the quiet soul of Japan — one that doesn’t ask to be discovered, but rewards those who do.

Sacred Hiking Trails & Forest Serenity

For those drawn to the rhythm of walking, Shikoku is a hiker’s paradise. Sections of the famed 88 Temple Pilgrimage – a 1400 km spiritual loop honoring the monk Kukai – wind through quiet forests, hillside farms, and timeless villages.

While few complete the full route, even a short walk reveals the island’s contemplative heart. Beyond the pilgrimage, Shikoku’s rugged interior offers hikes through the Iya Valley and up sacred peaks like Mt. Tsurugi and Mt. Ishizuchi. These trails pass through lush cedar forests and mountain ridges, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) – the Japanese art of soaking in nature’s healing presence. The Iya Valley is also great for white water rafting (check out our friends at Happy Raft) for a fun filled day on the Yoshino River.

Tip: Temple 21 Tairyu-ji is our favorite hike, a moderate 4 mile climb through the forest to a stunning mountain top temple, with a gondola that carries you down the mountain.

Island Hopping and Forest Road Cycling

Imagine pedaling across the iconic Shimanami Kaido, a series of suspension bridges linking islands of the Seto Inland Sea, offering breathtaking views as you glide between turquoise waters and lush islands. Quaint B&B-style accommodations and hidden spots like the Hirayama Ikuo Museum of Art on Ikuchijima Island make great additions to an already scenic adventure.

Beyond the famous route, Shikoku’s interior offers hundreds of miles of marked bike lanes and paths. We’ve personally "test-driven" routes that wind from the Seto Inland Sea to the Southern Pacific Ocean, often on e-bikes that allow you to conquer challenging climbs like the "UFO line" on Mt. Ishizuchi, the island's highest peak, with pure exhilaration. The reward? Endless mountain vistas and a sense of freedom on roads blissfully free of traffic.

Tip: Spend a rest day in Yusuhara and a stop at Kumo no Ue Community library, an incredible structure by hands of architectural savant Kengo Kuma. Oh, and the whale themed wind turbine in the town's center is a particularly awesome treat.

Culinary and Craft Immersion

Like any truly authentic trip to Japan, food and craft are central to understanding Shikoku's local culture. We explore the intricate art of "Tosa Washi" paper-making, where you can even craft your own delicate sheets from soaked mulberry pulp with your own personal touches of ferns and flowers collected onsite.

And then there are the many culinary revelations to be explored, as in any travels to Japan – like pan-fried sweet river fish, wild mustard blossoms, pickled ginger sprouts – each tiny bento box a world of textures and tastes. Or go full Kaiseki, the multicourse meal of a million dishes to delight your tastes at a high end Ryokan overlooking the ocean. From, undiscovered to upmarket, the variety is authentically Japan.

Tip: Check out Washi Studio Kamikoya for a real deep dive into the 1400 year old craft of washi paper making.

Deep Dives into History and Culture

Our journeys aren't just about the scenic routes. They weave through bamboo forests and past family farms bursting with ginger and rice. Discover tiny, hidden shrines adorned with tens of thousands of frog offerings, a testament to local folklore and unique traditions. Take a walk on the swinging vine bridges of the Iya Valley and photograph the comical yet sadly satirical kakashi, or scarecrows, of Nagoro Village.

This is the spirit of Shikoku. The smallest of Japan’s four main islands, it’s home to just over four million people — but feels even quieter. The forests are dense, the valleys deep, the pace unhurried. If Honshu is Japan in the spotlight, Shikoku is the soft hum just offstage — and it's where some of the country’s most enduring beauty lives.

Why Shikoku with
Outlier Journeys?

Shikoku isn't typically the first destination for Japan newcomers, and perhaps that's its enduring charm. It's for the traveler who seeks to peel back the layers, to engage with local life on a profound level, and to discover the quiet, powerful beauty that lies beyond the urban hum.

Tailored to Your Pace: While cycling can be a highlight, we understand that every traveler is different. Our trips can be customized to include hiking through the "hidden" Iya Valley, famous for its ancient vine bridges, or whitewater rafting in its pristine waters. Our e-bikes make cycling approachable for all, and a support vehicle is always close by, ensuring comfort and flexibility.

Authentic Connections: English isn't widely spoken in Shikoku, especially outside of the main cites. This is precisely where the Outlier Journeys difference shines. Our expert guides, bridge any language barriers - transforming simple interactions into cherished memories. Their genuine enthusiasm and deep local knowledge illuminate nuance that's easily missed.

The Best Time to Visit: The ideal times for active exploration in Shikoku are spring (March-May) or fall (September-November), offering cooler temperatures and vibrant seasonal landscapes. We plan around weather considerations, including Japan's typhoon season, to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience although weather is always an unpredictable factor which requires grace and flexibility.

The magic of travel, and especially of Japan, isn't just in the sights you see, but in the people you meet and the stories you create together. Shikoku, with its untouched landscapes, rich traditions, and incredibly welcoming people, is a destination you'll want to return to again and again. While each island and region of Japan possesses its own unique personality and culture, we believe Shikoku is a testament to the country's endless capacity to surprise and delight.

Learn More

Intrigued by Japan's hidden heart? Read our most recent journey notes from our trip. Better yet, reach out to Outlier Journeys and let us craft your bespoke Shikoku adventure.