Attractions and Places To See in the Shikoku Mountains - Top 20

The Shikoku Mountains are rich in natural beauty. You can visit Mount Tsurugi summit cairn, the second-highest peak, or explore the dramatic, secluded Iya Valley, known for its unique Iya Kazurabashi Bridge. Other highlights include the Shikoku Karst Natural Park with its unique limestone formations, the 'Niyodo Blue' waters of the Niyodo River, and the pristine Shimanto River, often called 'Japan's Last Clear Stream'.

Yes, the region is central to the Shikoku Henro, an 88-temple pilgrimage. Notable temples include Fujii-dera (Temple 11), known for its wisteria, and Shōsan-ji (Temple 12), the second-highest temple on the pilgrimage. You can also find Iwaya-ji (Temple 45) embedded in a pock-marked cliff, and Jōren-an Temple and Ippon Sugi Cedar with its ancient tree and Kūkai statue.

The Shikoku Mountains offer diverse hiking experiences. You can take a chairlift part-way up Mount Tsurugi for an easier ascent, or challenge yourself on sections of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, such as the demanding Henro Korogashi Section Between Temples 11 and 12. For more options, explore various routes for hiking in the region, including moderate and easy trails, by visiting our guide to Hiking in the Shikoku Mountains.

The Shikoku Mountains are particularly enjoyable for hiking from April to November. During late April to early May, you can witness the ancient wisteria blooming at Fujii-dera (Temple 11). Autumn also offers spectacular views with changing foliage, especially in areas like the Shikoku Karst Natural Park.

While many attractions involve hiking, the chairlift access to Mount Tsurugi summit cairn makes it more accessible for families, with only a 30-minute walk to the summit. The unique Iya Kazurabashi Bridge can also be an exciting experience for children. For easy walks, consider our guide to Easy hikes in the Shikoku Mountains.

From Shōsan-ji (Temple 12), on a clear day, you can see all the way to Awaji Island. The Shikoku Karst Natural Park, at 1500 meters above sea level, offers panoramic views of Mount Ishizuchi and the surrounding mountains. Mount Bizan also provides panoramic views of Tokushima City, including Awaji Island and the Kii Peninsula on clear days.

Yes, some attractions are accessible by public transport. For instance, on weekends, public buses can take you to Mount Tsurugi, where a chairlift further aids ascent. However, bus services can be infrequent, so it's advisable to check schedules in advance.

The Shikoku Henro is a spiritual journey connecting 88 temples across Shikoku. Many temples are located in the mountains, offering challenging but rewarding routes. You can begin at Fujii-dera (Temple 11) and continue to Shōsan-ji (Temple 12), which is known as a 'difficult place' due to its mountainous terrain. Other mountain temples include Iwaya-ji (Temple 45) and Daihō-ji (Temple 44).

Yes, the Shikoku Mountains region is excellent for adventure sports. Nametoko Gorge is a hotspot for canyoning, featuring Yukiwa Falls. The Niyodo River, famous for its 'Niyodo Blue' waters, also offers canyoning. For kayaking or canoeing, the pristine, undammed Shimanto River is an ideal location.

The pilgrimage trail from Fujii-dera (Temple 11) to Shōsan-ji (Temple 12) is considered difficult, particularly the Henro Korogashi Section, known as 'pilgrim killer' for its steepness. Mount Ishizuchi, the highest peak in Western Japan, also offers steep and rocky terrain for experienced hikers.

The Yusuhara Town Library in Kochi Prefecture is a notable architectural site. Designed by famous architect Kengo Kuma, it blends seamlessly with its natural mountainous surroundings, offering a unique cultural experience.

Visitors particularly enjoy the spiritual journey of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, exploring sacred mountains like Mount Tsurugi, and discovering dramatic gorges. The region offers a blend of cultural immersion and outdoor exploration, with many appreciating the challenging yet rewarding trails and scenic viewpoints.