Walk Japan Launches “Shikoku: Kochi & Ehime Discovery” Tour

Take the cultural journey of a lifetime as Walk Japan launches the new “Shikoku: Kochi & Ehime Discovery” tour. Set against a backdrop of rich farmland, rivers, and mountain ranges, the tour explores the two prefectures of Kochi and Ehime on Japan’s stunning island of Shikoku. With the guidance of experienced tour leaders, visitors will gain an insight into the fascinating past, present, and future of Japan’s fourth largest island.

1. Unearthing a Hidden Gem: Walk Japan’s ‘Shikoku: Kochi & Ehime Discovery’

If you’re looking for an undiscovered gem on your next adventure, look no further than Japan’s Shikoku: Kochi & Ehime Discovery.

This 13-day walking discovery tour offers travelers an unforgettable experience. Trek along the Oda Field of Dreams and immerse yourself in the charming culture of Kochi. Take a rest stop in the scenic Iya Valley, where the high mountains and deep valleys have been compared to Switzerland. Discover the beautiful views of Uwakai Sea from the Takahashi Lookark. Or relax and take a saltwater swim around the sparsely populated island of Nohara Shima. You’ll have the chance to explore ancient temples, learn calligraphy at a shukuba town, and savor traditional seafood feasts and more!

Experience stunning views of the Oda Field of Dreams
Explore Iya Valley for breathtaking scenery
Learn calligraphy at a classic shukuba town
Discover the Takahashi Lookark & Uwakai Sea
Visit Nohara Shima for picturesque saltwater swimming

2. Exploring the Undiscovered Landscapes of Kochi & Ehime

Kochi and Ehime offer a wealth of hidden attractions ripe for exploration. For those hungry for adventure, here are the must-see sights worth discovering:

Harimaya Bridge: Built in the 1820s, the famous Harimaya Bridge connects the cities of Kochi and Ehime. Spanning over 400 meters, the bridge is a designated National Treasure and a classic symbol of the relationship between the two prefectures.
Ozu Castle: The majestic Ozu Castle is located in the village of Ozu in Ehime prefecture. This well-preserved castle was originally constructed in the 12th century and is the focus of the town. VPopular sites include the gates, moats, interior buildings, along with an impressive stone wall that is about five meters tall.
Akao Herb and Rose Garden: This expansive and picturesque garden is teeming with fragrant herbs and stunning rose varieties from all over the world. Stroll through the luscious greenery, explore the unique flower beds, and even pick your own herbs and flowers to take home.

Discover ancient ruins, winding roads, and breathtaking natural landscapes – these special places should not to be overlooked when visiting Kochi and Ehime. With enough time and patience, your exploration is sure to be rewarding!

3. Discovering Unseen Traditions of the Isles of Shikoku

Tucked away in the far southwest corner of Japan’s main islands, the four distinct prefectures of Shikoku feels like a gateway to another world. These enchanting isles are steeped with a fascinating culture and heritage which continues to remain largely unknown to outsiders. Here you can explore undiscovered temples, savor unique cuisine, and be captivated by age-old traditions that are exclusive to the isles of Shikoku.

Dive into the Mysteries of Ancient Temples
When visiting Shikoku, one of the most remarkable experiences is to explore the amazing temples revered as the 88 Pilgrimage Sites of Shikoku. It’s in these temples that you can dive into the mysteries of ancient culture and traditions that people of the region have kept alive for centuries. Some of the most notable temples of the region are Ryozenji, Gokuraku-Ji, and Temple No.24 which is a sacred site said to be founded by Kobo Daishi himself.

Experience Food and Art Unique to Shikoku
The unique culture of Shikoku can also be explored through its one-of-a-kind cuisine, which differs from other parts of Japan. Fresh seafood caught from the Seto Inland Sea and specialties like the ohagi-mochi sweet rice cakes, the creamy basashi sashimi, and light miso-cured mackerel are the flavors Shikoku is known for. Aside from its unique taste, the region also draws tourists with its idiosyncratic art forms, from the traditional kabuki plays of Takamatsu to the intricate paper cuts of Kochi and the famous Naruto whirlpools of Naruto.

4. Embarking on a Journey of Adventure and Discovery in Japan’s Hidden Gem

While Japan is known for its bustling metropolises, there’s a side of the country that often gets overlooked: the hidden gem towns of Gumma, southwest of Tokyo.

Gumma is an incredible adventure waiting to be discovered, where nature becomes intertwined with the industrial influences of the city.

Take a trek on Mt. Akagi and appreciate its breathtaking landscape.
Visit the ancient shrines of Kamimachi Kurohayashi to get a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual history.
Discover the hidden gem of the Hokke-Ji Temple filled with stories of Buddhist teaching.

With its wide expanse of forests, flowing rivers, and stunning mountain vistas, Gumma is an ideal location to unlock the beauty of Japan’s outdoors. There’s a variety of activities that will keep your itinerary packed.

Sail down the ToneRiver and witness its picturesque views.
Bike through the rice paddies of Tochigi.
Take a yoga class at the NatureYoga2019 forest camp.

If you’re looking for an experience that’s off-the-beaten-path and filled with adventure, Gumma is the hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, Walk Japan’s new “Shikoku: Kochi & Ehime Discovery” Tour promises an unforgettable experience. So why wait? Start planning your journey today and explore all that the beautiful islands of Kochi and Ehime have to offer. Experience the mystery and beauty of Japan’s “island of the Gods”!