7 day itinerary
Shukoku
Personalized with:Takayama, kochi and matsuyama
Itinerary
Shikoku is a beautiful island in Japan, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. With your focus on Takayama, Kochi, and Matsuyama, let’s create a delightful 7-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and a bit of adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Takayama
Morning:
- Arrive in Takayama, a charming city in the mountainous Hida region. Check into your accommodation and freshen up.
Afternoon:
- Head to the . Stroll through the beautifully preserved Edo-period streets, lined with traditional wooden houses, shops, and sake breweries. Don’t forget to sample some local sake!
Evening:
- Enjoy a traditional Hida beef dinner at a local restaurant. The melt-in-your-mouth quality of this beef is a must-try!
Day 2: Takayama to
Morning:
- Take a day trip to , a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses. The scenic bus ride will take about 50 minutes.
Afternoon:
- Explore the village, visit the , and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up to the observation point for a panoramic view.
Evening:
- Return to Takayama and relax at a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after a day of exploration.
Day 3: Takayama to Kochi
Morning:
- Depart Takayama and head to Kochi. This will involve a bit of travel, so grab a hearty breakfast before you go!
Afternoon:
- Once in Kochi, visit the , one of the few original castles in Japan. Explore the castle grounds and enjoy the views from the top.
Evening:
- Stroll through the (if it’s Sunday) or visit the for dinner. Sample local specialties like katsuo no tataki (seared bonito) and wash it down with some local sake.
Day 4: Kochi Exploration
Morning:
- Visit the to learn about the region’s rich past.
Afternoon:
- Head to for breathtaking coastal views. If you’re up for it, take a short hike in the area.
Evening:
- Return to Kochi and enjoy a relaxing evening at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) to experience the local nightlife.
Day 5: Kochi to Matsuyama
Morning:
- Depart Kochi and travel to Matsuyama, the capital of Ehime Prefecture.
Afternoon:
- Visit the iconic . Take the ropeway up for stunning views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea.
Evening:
- Explore the , one of Japan’s oldest hot springs. Enjoy a soak and then have dinner at a nearby restaurant, trying out some local udon noodles.
Day 6: Matsuyama Day Trip
Morning:
- Take a ferry to , the art island famous for its contemporary art museums and installations.
Afternoon:
- Visit the and the . Don’t miss the iconic pumpkin sculpture by Yayoi Kusama!
Evening:
- Return to Matsuyama and enjoy a leisurely dinner, perhaps trying some fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea.
Day 7: Departure from Matsuyama
Morning:
- Spend your last morning in Matsuyama visiting the , dedicated to the famous poet Masaoka Shiki.
Afternoon:
- Depending on your departure time, you might have a chance to do some last-minute shopping or enjoy a final stroll through the city.
Evening:
- Depart Matsuyama, taking with you wonderful memories of your Shikoku adventure!
And there you have it! A week filled with culture, nature, and delicious food. Make sure to check local transport schedules and book accommodations in advance, especially in popular areas. Enjoy your trip to Shikoku! 🌸✈️