8-Day Shikoku Rail Adventure: Discover the Hidden Gems of Japan from Tokushima

Day 1: Tokushima Delights

Tokushima, Japan

9:00AM

Visit Tokushima Castle

Begin your Shikoku adventure with a visit to the historic Tokushima Castle, offering insights into local history.
Take a tram from Tokushima Station.
JPY 200, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Awa Odori Kaikan

Discover the traditional Awa Odori dance and its significance at the Awa Odori Kaikan.
Short tram ride from the castle.
JPY 1,000, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Kagawa, Tokushima

Enjoy a local specialty, Tokushima ramen, at a cozy eatery near the Kaikan.
Walk to a nearby restaurant.
JPY 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Naruto Whirlpools

Travel to the Naruto Whirlpools by train and boat, witnessing one of nature's wonders.
Take a train to Naruto Station, then a bus to the whirlpool viewing area.
JPY 1,800, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Matsukaze

Wrap up day one with a delightful meal featuring fresh seafood at Matsukaze, popular among locals.
Return to Tokushima and walk to the restaurant.
JPY 3,500, 2 hours
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Day 2: Takamatsu Exploration

Takamatsu, Japan

8:00AM

Train to Takamatsu

Take a morning train from Tokushima to Takamatsu, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the route.
JR Tokushima Line from Tokushima Station to Takamatsu.
JPY 1,800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ritsurin Garden

Spend the morning wandering through Ritsurin Garden, an exquisite example of Japanese landscaping.
A short tram ride from Takamatsu Station.
JPY 410, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Katsugyu

Savor a mouthwatering katsu-don at Katsugyu, a beloved spot for locals.
10-minute walk from Ritsurin Garden.
JPY 1,200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Takamatsu Castle

Visit Takamatsu Castle and enjoy its scenic grounds and views of the surrounding bay.
A short 15-minute walk from Katsugyu.
JPY 200, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Takamatsu Art Museum

Dive into contemporary art at the Takamatsu Art Museum, featuring both Japanese and international artists.
About a 10-minute walk from the castle.
JPY 300, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Chinchikurin

End the day with a traditional shabu-shabu dinner at Chinchikurin, popular for its fresh ingredients.
A short taxi ride from the museum.
JPY 3,000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Art Island Adventure

Naoshima Island, Japan

8:00AM

Ferry to Naoshima

Take an early morning ferry to Naoshima, an island renowned for its contemporary art.
Walk to Takamatsu Port, about 20 minutes.
JPY 1,400, 1 hour

9:15AM

Visit Benesse House Museum

Immerse yourself in modern art at the Benesse House Museum, designed by Tadao Ando.
Take a shuttle bus from the ferry terminal.
JPY 2,300, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Takara

Enjoy a light meal at Café Takara with a view over the sea.
Short walk from Benesse House.
JPY 1,500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Chichu Art Museum

Visit the magnificent Chichu Art Museum, bringing together art and nature beautifully.
Shuttle bus to the museum.
JPY 2,500, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Art House Project

Walk through the streets of Honmura and discover the Art House Project that incorporates art into local residences.
Walk back to Honmura.
JPY 1,200, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Shioya

Savor local seafood at Shioya before returning to Takamatsu for the night.
Back to the ferry terminal for ease.
JPY 3,500, 2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Gem

Okayama, Japan

8:00AM

Train to Okayama

Depart from Takamatsu Station and head towards Okayama, enjoying the countryside views.
JR Shikoku Line train from Takamatsu.
JPY 1,800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Okayama Korakuen Garden

Explore Okayama Korakuen, one of Japan’s top three gardens, filled with seasonal beauty.
Tram ride from Okayama Station.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Kokoen

Enjoy a delightful kaiseki lunch at Kokoen, right next to the garden.
Walk from the garden entrance.
JPY 3,500, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Okayama Castle

Visit Okayama Castle, also known as the Crow Castle, to take in its historical significance.
10-minute walk from Kokoen.
JPY 300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Seto Ohashi Bridge

Walk along the Seto Ohashi Bridge, an engineering marvel linking Shikoku with Honshu.
Train to Kojima Station, about 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Goshiki

Finish the day with dinner at Goshiki, known for its seasonal and beautifully presented meals.
Return to Okayama Station, then make your way to the restaurant.
JPY 3,000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Historic Hot Springs

Matsuyama, Japan

8:00AM

Train to Matsuyama

Take a scenic train ride from Okayama to Matsuyama to experience Shikoku's beautiful landscapes.
JR Shimanami Line from Okayama Station.
JPY 4,500, 3 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Saka-no-ue

Savor sushi bento at Saka-no-ue, known for its fresh and lovingly prepared meals.
Walk from Matsuyama Station.
JPY 1,800, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Matsuyama Castle

Explore Matsuyama Castle with its beautiful surroundings and rich history.
Take the ropeway from the city to the castle.
JPY 1,200, 2 hours

3:30PM

Dogo Onsen Visit

Spend the afternoon soaking in the historic Dogo Onsen, known for its traditional architecture and relaxing atmosphere.
Take a tram to Dogo Onsen station.
JPY 1,500, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Yumi

Enjoy yakitori at Yumi, a local favorite with a warm ambiance.
Walk back to Matsuyama City.
JPY 2,500, 2 hours
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Day 6: Nature Escape

Koboke Gorge, Japan

7:30AM

Train to Koboke Gorge

Early morning train to Koboke Gorge for a day of hiking and scenic views.
JR Yosan Line from Matsuyama Station.
JPY 3,000, 2.5 hours

10:00AM

Hike in Koboke Gorge

Explore the beautiful trails in Koboke Gorge, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes.
Access trails directly from Koboke Station.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Koboke River Restaurant

Enjoy a simple meal at a riverside restaurant featuring local flavors.
Near the exit of the hiking trails.
JPY 1,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Boat Ride on Iya River

Take a tranquil boat ride on Iya River to fully appreciate the gorge's natural beauty.
Book your ride on-site.
JPY 2,000, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Matsuyama

Travel back to Matsuyama to relax after your day of adventure.
JR return train to Matsuyama.
JPY 3,000, 2.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Uomen

Cap the day with a comforting bowl of udon noodles at Uomen, a Matsuyama staple.
A short walk from your accommodation.
JPY 1,500, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Kochi Culinary Day

Kochi, Japan

8:00AM

Train to Kochi

Head out to Kochi, famous for its vibrant market and local cuisine.
Take the JR Yosan Line to Kochi Station.
JPY 3,500, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Kochi Market

Experience the lively atmosphere of Kochi Sunday Market, sampling local produce and dishes.
Short walk from the station.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hirome Market

Relish in various local dishes at Hirome Market, known for its diverse offerings.
Walk to Hirome Market.
JPY 1,800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kochi Castle

Explore Kochi Castle, an important historical site and a symbol of the city.
Short taxi ride to Kochi Castle.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Katsurahama Beach

Relax and enjoy the scenery at Katsurahama Beach, a beautiful coastal area.
Bus from Kochi Castle to Katsurahama.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sakuragichoan

Savor Kochi specialties at Sakuragichoan, famed for its fresh fish dishes.
Bus back to Kochi City.
JPY 3,500, 2 hours
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Day 8: Return to Tokushima

Tokushima, Japan

9:00AM

Train to Tokushima

Travel back home to Tokushima, cherishing the moments from this incredible adventure.
JR Tokushima Line from Kochi Station.
JPY 3,500, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Brunch at Kafū

Reward yourself with a delightful brunch at Kafū with a fresh twist on traditional breakfast.
Short walk from Tokushima Station.
JPY 1,800, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Last-minute Shopping

Use your final hours to shop for souvenirs and gifts in Tokushima’s local markets.
Walking distance to shopping districts.
Varies, 2 hours

4:00PM

Departure

Say goodbye to Shikoku, taking home unforgettable experiences.
Head to Tokushima Airport or railway platform for your journey home.
Varies, Varies
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