The Shikoku Region
The Shikoku Region is the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, located to the south of Honshu and east of Kyushu. It consists of four prefectures: Kagawa, Tokushima, Ehime, and Kochi.
Historically, Shikoku was known for its rugged mountains, fertile plains, and a degree of isolation that allowed unique traditions to flourish. It is perhaps most famous for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, an 88-temple circuit honoring the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi, which has drawn pilgrims for over a thousand years. Its ports and coastal towns also played a role in maritime trade, connecting the island to the rest of Japan.
Despite its natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and tranquil pace of life, Shikoku remains one of the least visited regions of Japan. However, from the calm shores of the Seto Inland Sea to the dramatic gorges of Iya Valley, the island offers a serene escape, where visitors can truly appreciate a step off the road well-traveled.
