The Shikoku region, Japan’s smallest major island, is a tranquil haven that rewards the curious traveler with its untouched natural beauty and delightful cultural offerings. The region is divided into four prefectures: Ehime, Kagawa, Kochi, and Tokushima, each offering unique attributes including traditional castles, serene pilgrimage sites, and picturesque landscapes. Shikoku’s ryokans, traditional Japanese inns, provide an immersive experience into Japanese culture that’s hard to match.
Shikoku’s ryokans are renowned for their exceptional hospitality, locally sourced cuisine, and the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese living. Visitors can indulge in the tranquility of tatami rooms, soak in natural hot spring baths, and savour meticulously prepared kaiseki meals. Whether it’s the serene rural ryokans in the Iya Valley or the upscale ryokans by the Seto Inland Sea, Shikoku’s ryokans promise a unique and unforgettable retreat into the heart of Japanese culture and tradition.