Best in Shikoku – Super Cheap Japan

Ogijima

The smaller brother to Megijima, Ogijima (男木島) is also worth a visit if you have the time. The small size means that budget travellers can get around just on foot. It’s a very compact island, and a good spot for hiking. Budget travel tips If you get an early morning ferry, it is perfectly possible to doContinue reading “Ogijima”

Takamatsu

While Takamatsu (高松) is sometimes missed out of an average persons Shikoku trip, it has a few things to keep visitors occupied for a day or so. A well done Japanese garden away from the crowds of other cities, good shopping and small castle grounds are a nice way to kill a bit of time. InContinue reading “Takamatsu”

Megijima

The best Shikoku island for budget travellers, Megijima (女木島) has beaches, caves and art on offer. The Ogre Island, as it is also called due to the ogre legends in the caves, has something for all tastes. Go off to nearby Ogijima as well if you have time. Budget travel tips If you get an early morning ferry,Continue reading “Megijima”

Kotohira-gu Shrine

Kotohira-gu Shrine (金刀比羅宮), also known as Konpira-san, is one of Shikoku’s top shrines, and a worthwhile side trip from Marugame. There is a bit of mystery behind it’s exact founding date, but it is known to have been a focal point for centuries. It is the head shrine many in the region, and therefore could beContinue reading “Kotohira-gu Shrine”

Naruto

Naruto (鳴門) is Shikoku’s premier tourist spot, world famous for its whirlpools that bring in tourists from all across the globe. While it may seem like a tourist trap, it is far from that and always included in any good Shikoku itinerary. Budget travel tip When buying the tickets for your cruise, ask about discountContinue reading “Naruto”

Matsuyama and Dogo Onsen

Matsuyama (松山) is a popular tourist city in Shikoku, best known for Dogo Onsen (道後温泉). Considered to be the best hot spring town in the prefecture, it makes the city a great place to spend a day. Located on the north-west of Shikoku, it Matsuyama is also easily accessible from the main island (such as via cheapContinue reading “Matsuyama and Dogo Onsen”

Shimanami Kaido – cycle across Japan’s forgotten islands

The Shimanami Kaido (しまなみ海道) is an increasingly popular, but still relatively quiet cycling route across the islands connecting the Chugoku region near Hiroshima and Shikoku. The 60 kilometre route has been designed for cyclists in mind and the temperate climates helps to make the ride enjoyable and not too physically tough. Along the way thereContinue reading “Shimanami Kaido – cycle across Japan’s forgotten islands”