About Shikoku (四国)
Explore Shikoku, Japan’s smallest main island, known for scenic coastlines, spiritual heritage, and a relaxed pace of travel.
Shikoku is Japan’s smallest main island and consists of four prefectures. Known for its pilgrimage routes, scenic coastlines, mountain landscapes, and local traditions, the region offers travelers a quieter and more relaxed side of Japan.
Why Visit Shikoku?
The region is best known for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a historic route connecting 88 temples across the island. Beyond its spiritual heritage, the region offers dramatic coastal scenery, mountain valleys, traditional towns, and local cultural experiences distinct from those of Japan’s major metropolitan areas.
Travelers can explore a variety of landscapes while discovering regional traditions, historic sites, and a slower pace of life that remains an important part of many local communities.
Featured Experiences
- Follow sections of the Shikoku Pilgrimage route
- Visit historic temples and cultural landmarks
- Explore Shikoku’s scenic coastline and island views
- Discover traditional towns and local communities
- Experience outdoor activities in the mountains and valleys
- Enjoy regional cuisine and seasonal festivals
Prefectures
Shikoku consists of four prefectures, each offering its own blend of historic pilgrimage sites, dramatic coastlines, mountain scenery, and local traditions. Explore each destination below to discover what makes every prefecture unique.
Travel Highlights
The region combines spiritual heritage, natural beauty, and local culture within a relatively compact region. Bridges connecting Shikoku to Honshu make the region easy to explore by rail and road. At the same time, regional transportation networks provide convenient year-round access to coastal destinations, mountain communities, and historic sites.
From the spiritual trails of the Shikoku Pilgrimage to the dramatic Pacific coastline of Kochi, visitors can enjoy unforgettable experiences in a compact, easy-to-explore region. Excellent transportation makes it easy to combine historic towns, mountain scenery, coastal landscapes, and local traditions during the same journey.
Explore More Regions
Continue exploring Japan47 to discover all eight regions and 47 prefectures of Japan.