Chugoku & Shikoku

Travel guides for Hiroshima, Okayama, Matsuyama and the Shikoku islands

Chugoku & Shikoku, Food & Restaurants, Kagawa (Naoshima)

Kagawa Udon Pilgrimage Guide: Sanuki Noodles, Best Shops, and How to Eat Udon Like a Local in Japan’s Udon Prefecture

Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku island is Japan’s undisputed udon capital — nicknamed ‘Udon Prefecture’ for its obsession with thick, chewy Sanuki udon noodles. The Kagawa udon pilgrimage, visiting multiple udon shops in a single day, is one of Japan’s greatest food experiences and one of its best-value ones too. This complete guide covers the history of Sanuki udon, how to order, the best shops to visit, how to plan your pilgrimage day, and what else to see in Kagawa including Ritsurin Garden, Naoshima Art Island, and Konpira-san shrine.

Chugoku & Shikoku, Hidden Gems, Tokushima

Iya Valley Guide: Exploring Shikoku’s Hidden Mountain Paradise and Vine Bridges

The Iya Valley in Tokushima Prefecture is one of Japan’s most dramatic and least-visited destinations — a deep mountain gorge with ancient vine bridges, misty cedar forests, and extraordinary riverside hot springs. This complete guide covers how to reach Shikoku’s hidden gem, how to cross the famous kazurabashi, the best places to eat and stay, seasonal highlights, practical tips, and a recommended two-day itinerary for first-time visitors.

Chugoku & Shikoku, Hidden Gems, Kagawa (Naoshima)

Naoshima Art Island Guide: Japan’s World-Famous Contemporary Art Destination in the Seto Inland Sea

Naoshima is Japan’s extraordinary art island in the Seto Inland Sea — home to world-class museums by architect Tadao Ando, Yayoi Kusama’s iconic pumpkin sculptures, and the Art House Project. This complete guide covers getting there, all the major art sites, accommodation, food, and day trips to neighboring art islands Teshima and Inujima.

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