Shikoku doesn’t try to impress you. It doesn’t need to.
What it offers is quieter, but it stays with you longer.
One minute you’re soaking in a bathhouse that inspired a Ghibli film.
The next, you’re crossing a vine bridge deep in the forest or staring at a giant pumpkin on a beach.
Over seven days, this route takes you through ancient castles, tiny fishing ports, art installations, and remote valleys.
It’s slower, more human, and full of moments you won’t find in guidebooks.
Plan your 7-day Shikoku Itinerary with these experiences:
Day 1: Arrival in Takamatsu – Gateway to Shikoku
Arrive in Takamatsu by train from Okayama.
The ride takes just over an hour and crosses the Seto Inland Sea.
Start at Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan’s finest landscape gardens.
Follow paths past ponds, stone lanterns, and wooden bridges.
For the best views, climb to the tea house near the back of the grounds.
Return in the evening if possible when lanterns light the paths.
Walk to the nearby Takamatsu Castle ruins.
The original stonework remains, and the moat and Tamamo Park make it a peaceful break in the city.
For dinner, eat Sanuki udon, a local specialty.
Places like Udon Baka Ichidai or Waraya serve handmade noodles with various toppings.
The chewy texture is very different from standard udon.
Stroll the covered shopping arcades for snacks or souvenirs.
Stay overnight in Takamatsu.
Day 2: Naoshima Art Island
Take the ferry from Takamatsu to Naoshima. It runs regularly and takes 20 minutes.
Sit on the open deck to enjoy views of the inland sea.
Visit Chichu Art Museum, which features installations by Monet, Turrell, and De Maria in sunlit underground spaces.
Book your timed ticket online in advance.
Walk through Honmura village to see the Art House Project.
Traditional buildings are turned into installations with unique themes.
No two are the same.
Then explore Benesse House Museum, a hotel and gallery set on the coast.
The art here is both inside and outside, blending with the sea and sky.
Finish with the iconic yellow and red pumpkins by Yayoi Kusama.
The yellow sculpture at the pier is the most photographed, but both are worth a look.
Return to Takamatsu and have dinner at a local izakaya like Isamu or Tsuruya.
Day 3: Travel to Matsuyama and Dogo Onsen
Take a morning train to Matsuyama.
The direct trip takes just over three hours.
Use this time to rest and watch the countryside roll by.
When you arrive, head to Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs.
The main bathhouse inspired the bathhouse in Spirited Away.
Check current opening details, as some sections may be closed for renovation.
Soak in the mineral rich baths, then wander the old streets nearby.
Shops sell mikan-based sweets, local crafts, and snacks.
For something traditional, try a soft boiled egg with soy and citrus served outside the bathhouse.
Stay overnight in Matsuyama, preferably in a ryokan near Dogo for the full onsen experience.
Day 4: Matsuyama Castle and Temple Visit
Start your morning at Matsuyama Castle.
Take the ropeway or chairlift up and explore the wooden keep, towers, and views over the city and sea.
Walk back down through the surrounding park, where locals gather under cherry trees in spring and enjoy the shade in summer.
Visit Ishite-ji Temple in the afternoon.
It is part of the Shikoku Pilgrimage route and mixes old buildings with modern caves filled with stone statues and lanterns.
Consider a traditional tea ceremony at a cultural centre nearby.
The slow rhythm and attention to seasonal details offer a very different side of Japanese life.
Spend another night in Matsuyama.
Day 5: Scenic Train to Kochi
Take the train from Matsuyama to Kochi.
The route takes about five hours with a transfer and is considered one of the most scenic in Japan.
Sit on the sea-facing side for coastal views.
Optional: If you want to visit the Shimanto River, stay in a riverside town like Nakamura.
You can walk or cycle by the river, known for its clarity and untouched banks.
Add an extra day to your itinerary if doing this.
Once in Kochi, visit Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s original castles.
Walk up to the keep, then visit the museum inside to see armour and maps from the Tosa domain.
End the day at Hirome Market.
It’s casual, loud, and local.
Sit at shared tables and try seared bonito fish (katsuono tataki), grilled meats, or local beer.
Stay overnight in Kochi.
Day 6: Into Iya Valley
Take the train and bus to Iya Valley, or rent a car for more flexibility.
The trip from Kochi takes around three hours by public transport, less by car.
Cross the Kazurabashi vine bridge. It creaks underfoot and the gaps between planks make it thrilling.
The surrounding forest and river make it feel like another world.
Visit Oboke Gorge for a short boat ride through steep cliffs and emerald water.
You can also ride the scenic train that runs along the valley floor.
Day 7: Travel to Tokushima and Return
Leave Iya in the morning for Tokushima.
Allow two to three hours by bus or train.
If the timing works, visit the Naruto Whirlpools.
These swirling tidal currents are visible only at certain times, so check the tide charts beforehand.
In the city, go to the Awa Odori Kaikan.
This museum covers Tokushima’s famous summer dance.
If it’s not festival season, they still hold daily shows and you can join in.
Return to Honshu via train across the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, or take the ferry depending on your next destination.
Practical Travel Information
Transport
Buy a JR Shikoku Pass before arrival.
Local buses are available, but some areas like Iya are best accessed by car.
An international driving permit is required.
Ferries connect to Naoshima and between Shikoku and Honshu.
Book Naoshima ferry tickets on the day at the port terminal.
Accommodation
Book early during cherry blossom and autumn seasons.
Stay in a ryokan at least once for a traditional Japanese experience with futons, shared baths, and local meals.
Etiquette
At onsen, wash before entering and don’t bring towels into the water.
Speak quietly and keep your hair out of the bath.
At temples, dress modestly and follow posted signs about photography or restricted areas.
Budget
Shikoku is more affordable than Tokyo or Kyoto.
Many meals cost under 1000 yen.
Convenience stores sell regional items like yuzu drinks or mikan pastries.
Apps That Help
Google Translate’s camera feature is useful for signs and menus.
Navitime or Japan Travel App helps with train planning in English.
Final Thoughts
Your Shikoku itinerary is not about rushing.
It’s about real food, quiet paths, open landscapes, and places where people still take time to say hello.
If you want to remember your trip for more than photos, this route gives you that.
One island, seven days, and a deeper side of Japan.
