Shikoku offers unforgettable memories through its nature and tradition

the Pacific Ocean at the Ashizuri area

Some of the stone steps at Kotohira Shrine

Here's one examples of a tour all around Shikoku:

In Kagawa Pref., the Ritsurin Japanese Garden and Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum should not be missed. Kotohira Shrine, which transformed itself into a pure shrine at the beginning of Meiji, was fun too but you have to tolerate 785 stone steps to the main shrine building (but there's a way to skip the first 365 by taking a taxi). You are welcome to hike up another 583 steps to visit the inner shrine. It's a challenge but you will have a feeling of conquering and achievement. The view you command after the hike will refresh yourself.

Then in Tokushima, you've gotta try crossing the vine suspension bridge. See the Yoshino River below. While reaching the vine bridge, you will enjoy looking at the gorge and rustic setting surrounding it. Another destination I fully recommend is Tairyu-ji temple which involves a dynamic aerial cable ride. The temple stands on top of the mountains. You will see pilgrims, whether they are serious or casual, visiting the Shikoku 88 temples on the looped route in Shikoku.

In Kochi, you should not miss the places associated with Ryoma and John Mung (John Manjiro or Nakahama Manjiro). They are inspiring and represent the Kochi spirit. Katsurahama beach is easy to go and good to take a walk but never go near the water. Once in a blue moon, unexpectedly violent waves would come and take you into the water. Ashizuri Misaki, though quite far from central Kochi, offers you some inspiration. Kongofuku-ji temple, one of the 88 temples on the pilgrimage route, is a must to visit. They have a garden with fabulous stones and rather interesting items including limestone pillars. Also Kochi Castle is authentic and walking up to the central citadel gives you a lot of photo opportunities and encounter with intriguing items on the castle buildings such as Ninja blockers. Kochi has a beautiful river called Shimanto. Several companies offer river cruises. Or if you are a biker, try riding a bike along the river for some distance.

Finally in Ehime, you have to bathe at the Dogo Onsen public bathhouse. If you are too timid, do not despair. Try a guided tour inside (but in Japanese). You will see the imperial quarters of the whole complex and glimpses into visitors chilling in the lounge. Matsuyama Castle is also good. Shikoku has four old castles from the Edo period which retain their original castle towers. Kochi and Matsuyama castles are major two.

There's more Shikoku has to offer: indigo dying experience will be one of them and you can bring back your dyed T-shirt or something; local food should not be missed; different kinds of natural beauties will be appreciated depending on where you are in Shikoku; combinations of the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and the Yoshino River and Shimanto River expand your natural experiences in Shikoku.

The artistic islands of Naoshima, Teshima, Inujima, and others in the Seto Inland Sea are the places you should definitely go. You can make a great tour covering these islands, Okayama, Hiroshima, and Shikoku. It will be a grand tour, away from the golden tour route Japan beginners would not like to miss.

It's a beautiful country, Japan is.  

Trail at Ashizuri Misaki lined by primeval camellia trees