Japan’s Hidden Island: Temples & Festivals of Shikoku

Japan’s Hidden Island: Temples & Festivals of Shikoku

Shikoku is Japan’s hidden island, home to some of the country’s most authentic and peaceful landscapes. Far from the bright lights and fast pace of the major cities, this exclusive journey is designed for travellers seeking a deeper, more soulful side of Japan where time seems to slow beside misty ancient temples and vibrant local festivals filled with tradition and colour.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN OSAKA – THE JOURNEY BEGINS

Route: Arrive in Tokyo, then continue with a domestic flight to Osaka Airport.

Experience:

• Upon arrival in Osaka, our local representative will warmly welcome you at the airport, hand over all travel documents, and assist you with a smooth arrival process.
• A comfortable shared transfer will take you directly to your centrally located hotel, allowing you to relax and recover after your long flight.

DAY 2: OSAKA – TOKUSHIMA (Via Awaji Island)

Route: Travel by premium highway bus to Tokushima.

Experience:

• The journey takes you across the scenic island of Awaji-jima and over the magnificent Akashi Kaikyo Bridge – the world’s longest suspension bridge connecting Japan’s main island of Honshu with the mysterious island of Shikoku.
• Enjoy sweeping ocean views before arriving in the cultural town of Tokushima.

DAY 3: DISCOVER LOCAL CULTURE IN TOKUSHIMA

Experience:

• Spend the day exploring the peaceful charm and authentic atmosphere of Tokushima.
• Special recommendation: Experience one of the region’s most treasured cultural arts the famous Bunraku puppet theatre. Enjoy a beautifully crafted traditional performance rich in Japanese heritage and storytelling.

DAY 4: TOKUSHIMA – TAKAMATSU (Scenic Coastal Rail Journey)

Route: Travel by train along one of Shikoku’s beautiful coastal railway lines to the port city of Takamatsu.

Experience:

• Relax as endless blue sea views unfold outside your train window.
• Upon arrival, visit Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens and widely regarded as one of the country’s finest garden masterpieces.

DAY 5: TAKAMATSU – NAOSHIMA ART ISLAND

Experience:

• A short ferry ride brings you to Naoshima, Japan’s world-famous “art island.” Spend the day discovering its remarkable contemporary art museums and striking architectural spaces.
• If time allows, continue exploring unique outdoor art installations scattered across the nearby islands.

DAY 6: TAKAMATSU – IYA VALLEY (Self-Drive Adventure)

Route: Pick up your rental car in Takamatsu and drive into the remote Iya Valley.

Experience:

• Enjoy the freedom of driving through peaceful countryside roads as you make your way deep into the untouched mountains of Iya. Your vehicle comes equipped with an advanced GPS navigation system for a smooth and easy journey.
• Depending on the season, admire dramatic mountain scenery, forest landscapes, and cascading waterfalls along the route.

DAY 7: IYA VALLEY (Oboke River Rafting Experience)

Experience:

• Start the morning with a light outdoor adventure white-water rafting through the scenic Oboke Gorge.
• The rafting route is safe, family-friendly, and suitable even for beginners, while still offering spectacular natural scenery. In the evening, unwind beside the peaceful riverside surroundings.

DAY 8: IYA VALLEY – KANNONJI – MATSUYAMA (Journey to Western Shikoku)

Route: Drive to the small town of Kannonji to return your rental car, then continue westward by train to Matsuyama.

Experience:

• Western Shikoku offers a completely different atmosphere quieter, more traditional, and deeply nostalgic.
• Arrive in Matsuyama, the largest city in Shikoku and home to one of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts. Check in and overnight at Matsuyama Tokyu REI Hotel.

DAY 9: MATSUYAMA CASTLE & ONSEN EXPERIENCE

Experience:

• Spend the day visiting the magnificent Matsuyama Castle, perched high above the city, and stroll through its beautiful surrounding gardens.
• The remainder of the day is yours to relax and recharge in soothing onsen hot springs, either at your hotel or at the historic Dogo Onsen nearby.
• Overnight at Matsuyama Tokyu REI Hotel.

DAY 10: MATSUYAMA – OKAYAMA – TOKYO (Return to the Capital)

Route: Travel by train across the Seto Inland Sea to Okayama, then continue eastward to Tokyo aboard the famous Shinkansen bullet train.

Experience:

• Along the way, stop in Okayama to visit Korakuen Garden, another of Japan’s three most celebrated traditional gardens.
• Your final evening in Tokyo is completely free at leisure. Enjoy some last-minute shopping, indulge in an elegant dinner, or simply soak in the dazzling atmosphere of Japan’s vibrant capital city.

DAY 11: TOKYO – DEPARTURE

Experience:

• A shared transfer will pick you up from your hotel and take you to Tokyo International Airport for your departure flight home.
• Your flight arrives home the same day, bringing your unforgettable journey through the hidden wonders of Shikoku to a memorable close.