Shikoku, Japan’s smallest main island, is a destination rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and coastal charm. While often overshadowed by its larger counterparts, Shikoku offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. Surrounding this island are a collection of hidden gems—smaller islands that offer a unique blend of traditional Japanese life, stunning landscapes, and artistic innovation. Island hopping around Shikoku unveils a slower pace of life, where time seems to stand still, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local traditions, scenic vistas, and seaside tranquility.
Naoshima: A Fusion of Art and Nature
One of the most famous islands near Shikoku, Naoshima, has become a world-renowned destination for contemporary art lovers. Located in the Seto Inland Sea, this island is home to the Benesse Art Site, a stunning collection of museums, outdoor installations, and architecture that harmonizes with the natural surroundings. Designed by the visionary architect Tadao Ando, the Chichu Art Museum houses works by Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria, creating an immersive experience that blends light, space, and nature. Dotted across the island are whimsical sculptures, including Yayoi Kusama’s iconic polka-dotted pumpkin, which has become synonymous with Naoshima’s artistic identity. Beyond the art, Naoshima’s quiet beaches and rustic fishing villages offer a contrast to its modern attractions, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.
Teshima: A Rural Escape with a Creative Soul
A short ferry ride from Naoshima, Teshima is an island that embraces both art and agricultural heritage. The Teshima Art Museum, designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa, is an architectural marvel that resembles a water droplet resting on the earth. Inside, visitors experience an ethereal atmosphere where water-like forms continuously shift across the concrete floor, creating a meditative space. The island’s lush terraced rice fields and charming hamlets provide a glimpse into rural Japanese life, where small family-run cafes serve locally grown produce and fresh seafood. Cycling along Teshima’s quiet coastal roads reveals breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, making it a haven for those who appreciate both art and nature.
Shodoshima: Olive Groves and Scenic Coastal Beauty
Known as Japan’s “Olive Island,” Shodoshima boasts a Mediterranean-like climate and is famous for its olive cultivation. The island’s Olive Park offers a picturesque setting where visitors can wander through olive groves, sample locally produced olive oil, and even take in views of a Greek-style windmill. Shodoshima’s coastline is equally captivating, with the dramatic Angel Road appearing at low tide, allowing visitors to walk across a sandbar to a small offshore island. The Kankakei Gorge, particularly stunning in autumn, offers breathtaking panoramic views from its mountaintop cable car, showcasing the rugged beauty of Shikoku’s island landscapes. Shodoshima’s traditional soy sauce breweries, some of which have been in operation for centuries, add another layer of cultural depth, allowing travelers to witness the craftsmanship behind this essential Japanese condiment.
Ogijima and Megijima: The Legends and Lore of the Seto Inland Sea
For those drawn to folklore and island legends, Ogijima and Megijima provide a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s mythological past. Ogijima, with its steep hills and traditional wooden houses, is a quiet escape where narrow alleyways lead to breathtaking ocean views. The island has embraced contemporary art as part of the Setouchi Triennale, an international art festival that transforms the island’s spaces into creative installations. Nearby, Megijima is steeped in legend as the supposed home of the demons from the famous Japanese folktale Momotaro. The island’s caves, said to be the dwelling place of these mythical creatures, offer an eerie yet intriguing experience, while the surrounding hills provide stunning vantage points over the Seto Inland Sea.
Exploring the Lesser-Known Islands: A Journey Beyond the Ordinary
While Naoshima, Teshima, and Shodoshima are among the most well-known islands, countless smaller, lesser-explored islands await discovery. Awashima, once home to a maritime academy, now hosts art installations in repurposed buildings, creating a haunting yet beautiful atmosphere. Oshima, historically an island for those affected by Hansen’s disease, offers a thought-provoking visit where abandoned hospital buildings tell the stories of resilience and change. These lesser-known destinations provide an alternative perspective on Japan’s island culture, offering solitude and deep historical narratives that enrich any journey.
The Timeless Beauty of Shikoku’s Island-Hopping Adventure
Island hopping around Shikoku is a journey that weaves together history, art, and natural splendor. Each island tells its own story, offering a unique blend of creativity, culture, and untouched landscapes. Whether marveling at modern art on Naoshima, cycling through Teshima’s rice fields, tasting Shodoshima’s renowned olive oil, or uncovering ancient folklore on Megijima, this adventure is a testament to the beauty of Japan’s coastal wonders. As ferries glide across the shimmering Seto Inland Sea, travelers will find themselves not just exploring islands but stepping into a world where the past and present merge seamlessly, creating memories that linger long after the journey ends.
