Great Wide Open Travel guides and transformative journeys

Shikoku

The region of Shikoku. The quiet fourth main island, across the Inland Sea. Ancient Dōgo Onsen at Matsuyama, the 88-temple Buddhist pilgrimage, the contemporary art islands around Naoshima, and the remote river gorges of the Iya Valley.

Iya Valley, Japan, Shikoku

Iya Valley

By Andrew / July 13, 2026

Home Iya Valley Vine bridges and gorges in Shikoku’s hidden heart Why go? Go because it’s one of the most […]

Japan, Naoshima, Shikoku

Naoshima

By Andrew / July 13, 2026

Home Naoshima The island that became a work of art Why go? Go because there is nowhere else like it

Japan, Shikoku, Takamatsu

Takamatsu

By Andrew / July 13, 2026

Home Takamatsu Garden city and gateway to the art islands Why go? Go because it’s the easiest way onto Shikoku,

Japan, Matsuyama, Shikoku

Matsuyama

By Andrew / July 13, 2026

Home Matsuyama A hilltop castle and Japan’s oldest hot spring Why go? Go because it pairs one of Japan’s finest