Shikoku – Explore Japan’s Shikoku Region
Located just south of Honshu, the island of Shikoku is made up of four prefectures and is known for its pilgrimage culture, mild climate, beautiful coastlines, and delicious regional cuisine. It is a destination where visitors can experience nature, tradition, and the warm hospitality of its people.
Overview of the Shikoku Region
Shikoku consists of Tokushima, Kagawa, Ehime, and Kochi prefectures. Surrounded by the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean, the region enjoys a warm climate and offers a wide variety of landscapes. Each prefecture has its own distinct geography, culture, and appeal.
Recommended Destinations by Prefecture
Tokushima
Character: A culturally rich prefecture known for the Awa Odori dance festival and the dramatic Naruto Whirlpools.
Top destinations:
- Naruto Whirlpools: A powerful and impressive natural phenomenon created by tidal currents.
- Awa Odori Kaikan: Learn about and even experience Tokushima’s famous traditional dance.
- Iya Valley: A remote and scenic gorge known for vine bridges and unspoiled nature.
Kagawa
Character: Renowned as the home of Sanuki udon and a global destination for contemporary art.
Top destinations:
- Ritsurin Garden: A masterpiece of Japanese garden design, offering serene landscapes and seasonal beauty.
- Naoshima: The world-famous art island, home to Benesse Art Site and numerous contemporary installations.
- Sanuki Udon Tour: Enjoy tasting Kagawa’s beloved local specialty across various traditional shops.
Ehime
Character: A region of historic hot springs, castle towns, and scenic long-distance cycling routes.
Top destinations:
- Dogo Onsen: Considered one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, rich in history and charm.
- Matsuyama Castle: A beautifully preserved hilltop castle offering panoramic views of the city.
- Shimanami Kaido: A world-class cycling route connecting islands across the Seto Inland Sea.
Kochi
Character: Blessed with Pacific views, abundant nature, and deep historical connections.
Top destinations:
- Katsurahama Beach: Known for its dramatic coastline and the iconic statue of Sakamoto Ryoma.
- Shimanto River: Often called “Japan’s last clear stream,” ideal for canoeing and nature activities.
- Kochi Castle: One of the few original castles in Japan, retaining structures from the Edo period.
How Your Trip Comes Together
When you begin discussing a private trip with your family or friends, feel free to contact MaximTravelers at any time. We are happy to assist you.
Tell us about your preferred destination, dates, trip length, number of travelers, budget, and any other requests by filling out the travel preference questionnaire on our inquiry page.
We will make a follow-up consultations as needed via email or online meeting such as Zoom.
We will prepare an initial trip proposal for you. Using this as a starting point, we will gather
additional requests and make revisions as needed until the final version is completed.
Once you agree to the proposal, please fill out the travel application form (we will send you
the link) and return it together with the required deposit.
| Trip Price per Person | Deposit Required (per person) |
|---|---|
| Under ¥150,000- | ¥20,000- |
| ¥150,000–¥299,999 | ¥30,000- |
| ¥300,000 or more | ¥50,000- |
If your application is made within 1 month of departure, the full trip price is due at the time
of booking.
Your contract is considered confirmed once we receive your deposit.
We will then send you a written contract detailing your trip.
Please pay the remaining balance by bank transfer by the due date stated in the contract.
(For security reasons, we do not accept cash payments or credit cards. Thank you for your understanding.)
If you must cancel your trip, the following cancellation fees will apply:
| Cancellation Timing | Fee |
|---|---|
| 30 days to 1 day before departure | 20% of the trip price |
| 2 days before departure | 50% of the trip price |
| After departure or no-show | 100% of the trip price |
Please note: If flights, hotels, tickets, or other arrangements have already been booked at the time of cancellation, any fees required to cancel those reservations will be charged separately.
We will send your final travel itinerary (“Travel Guidebook”) approximately one week before departure. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us anytime.
On the day before departure, we will send an e-mail to the group representative for final confirmation.
On your departure day, please arrive at the meeting point on time.
We wish you a wonderful and safe journey!
Explore Other Regions of Japan
Hokkaido
Tohoku
Kanto
Chubu
Kansai
Chugoku
Shikoku
Kyushu & Okinawa