Where is Shikoku?
Shikoku is one of Japan's four main islands, consisting of the four prefectures of Tokushima, Kagawa, Ehime, and Kochi. Known for its beautiful nature, rich history, and traditional living culture, the region has plenty of different attractions, such as the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, Sanuki udon, and Dogo Onsen, just to name a few. Take a special trip away from the hustle and bustle of the city to experience Japan's quintessential rural landscapes and unique regional food culture.
Travel in comfort on a direct highway bus from Kobe to Shikoku!
When visiting Osaka, we recommend you explore not only Kyoto and Nara, but also Kobe. Known as a beautiful port city, Kobe offers delicious cuisine and streets filled with an exotic atmosphere. And for those who want to experience the real charms of Japan, we recommend a trip from Kobe to Shikoku.
With the Shinki Bus highway bus service, you can easily get to Tokushima, Takamatsu, Kochi, and Matsuyama from Kobe. Get off the beaten track to create some unique and special memories of your trip to Japan by immersing yourself in the nature, history, and culture of Shikoku.
Highway bus routes from Kobe to Shikoku
Recommended places to visit in Shikoku: Tokushima Area
The Naruto whirlpools, Uzunomichi (aka Whirlpool Road), Uzushio sightseeing boats, and the Otsuka Museum of Art, are all popular tourist attractions within walking distance of each other. The close proximity of these attractions makes it extremely convenient for visitors to enjoy the unique scenery and culture of Naruto whirlpools, all while exploring on foot!
Naruto Whirlpools
The Naruto Whirlpools are one of the world’s largest natural phenomena. They are spectacular whirlpool currents which occur in the Naruto Strait and can be viewed directly from an aerial view on the Uzunomichi observation walkway or up close from a sightseeing boat. When timed correctly with tidal changes, you can witness whirlpools up to 20 meters in diameter.
Access from Kobe Sannomiya:
Take a highway bus (Shinki Bus) to "Kosoku Naruto" or "Naruto Koen-guchi" (about 2 hours), then take a local bus or taxi for 10-15 minutes to reach “Uzunomichi” or the sightseeing boat pier.
*Buses require reservations, so ticket booking in advance is necessary.
Highway bus reservations: here
Notable points:
- Observe world-class whirlpools from an aerial view and up close
- Experience ocean cruises on sightseeing boats
- Perfect for social media! See tidal movements creating natural art
Uzunomichi (Whirlpool Road)
This is an ocean walkway built beneath the Onaruto Bridge which spans across the Naruto Straight. It acts as a thrilling observation point where you can look down at the whirlpools from a glass floor at a height of about 45 meters. As it is an indoor facility, you can enjoy viewing the whirlpools even on rainy days.
Notable points:
- View mesmerizing whirlpools through transparent floors!
- A photogenic scenic spot perfect for social media
- English signage is available throughout the premises, making it convenient for international visitors
Uzushio Sightseeing Boats (Uzushio Kisen/Wonder Naruto)
There are several observation cruises where you can experience whirlpools up close from aboard a boat. Departure times are timed to coincide with periods of intense tidal flow, allowing you to witness large whirlpools forming right before your eyes! The largest whirlpools can be seen during spring tides at high and low tide times.
*Choose between "Wonder Natruto" (a large vessel), or "Aqua Eddy" (a small underwater observation boat)
*Multilingual information is available at ticket counters
Whirlpool Tourism Tips
- Since whirlpools change appearance depending on the time of day, it's recommended to check observation times in advance
- Observation times can be checked on official sites like "Naruto Kancho Navi"
- All facilities accept credit cards and electronic payment methods
- Uzunomichi and the sightseeing boats are within walking distance, making it easy to visit both on the same day
Otsuka Museum of Art
See the world's masterpiece paintings all at once!
This museum houses full-size ceramic replicas of the world's masterpieces. You can get up close to such famous works as the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper!
Getting there: About 15 minutes on foot from the Kosoku Naruto bus stop.
Ryozenji Temple
The starting point of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.
As the first temple on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage route, it attracts many pilgrims. A visit to this temple is certainly recommended to those who want to experience traditional Japanese culture.
Getting there: About 40 minutes by local bus from the Kosoku Naruto bus stop, or around 10 minutes on foot from JR Bando Station.
Timetable
Iya Kazurabashi
The "Iya Kazurabashi" (Iya Vine Bridge) is a suspension bridge made from natural materials that spans across Iya Valley, one of Japan's three most remote hidden regions. It's a hidden gem where you can enjoy crossing a picturesque bridge within deep beautiful nature.
Access: From Kobe Sannomiya, take a highway bus (Shinki Bus) to "Tokushima Station" for about 2 hours. Then take JR Limited Express to "Oboke Station" for about 1 hour 30 minutes, followed by Shikoku Kotsu Bus bound for "Kazura Bridge" or "Kubo," and get off at "Kazura Bridge" or "Kazura Bridge Yume Butai" bus stop.
Google Map
Notable points:
- Experience a thrilling suspension bridge where you can see the valley floor through gaps under your feet
- Enjoy beautiful seasonal scenery every season: fresh green in spring, lush greenery in summer, autumn foliage, and snowy winter landscapes
- The nightly illumination from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM creates a mystical atmosphere (bridge crossing not available during illumination)
- Nearby attractions include the 40-meter "Biwa Falls" and restaurants serving local specialty "Iya Soba" noodles
Recommended places to visit in Shikoku: Takamatsu Area
Yashima is a flat-topped mountain approximately 300 meters above sea level, located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture. Its name derives from its flat shape which resembles a roof (yane). From here you can enjoy panoramic views of the beautiful Seto Inland Sea, making it one of Japan's more popular scenic spots.
Access: From Kobe Sannomiya, take a highway bus (Shinki Bus) to Takamatsu Station for about 3 hours 30 minutes. From Takamatsu Station, take a Kotoden bus for about 30 minutes and get off at "Yashima Sanjo" bus stop.
Google Map
Notable Points:
- The panoramic view from the mountaintop observation deck is an Instagram-worthy scenic spot, especially during sunset
- At "Yashima-ji Temple," one of the 88 temples of the Shikoku pilgrimage, you can experience Japanese Buddhist culture while enjoying historic architecture including the main hall, stone steps, and Nio guardian statues
- You can enjoy the fun experience of searching for cute "tanuki (raccoon dog) stone statues" while strolling around
Meet Slowpoke
Kagawa's official Pokémon!
There are plenty of photo spots where you can meet Slowpoke, Kagawa's official Pokémon ambassador! If you love Pokémon, it's a must-visit destination.
Getting there: About 10 minutes on foot from Takamatsu Station.
Savor some authentic Sanuki udon!
Kagawa is known as the "Udon Prefecture." Enjoy some authentic Sanuki udon and its firm, chewy texture. With many famous shops around the station, it's fun to compare the different ones.
Ritsurin Garden
Designated as a "Special Place of Scenic Beauty"
A strolling garden that dates back to the Edo period, where you can enjoy seasonal scenery. Recommended for those who want to spend their time at a leisurely pace.
Getting there: About 5 minutes on foot from the Ritsurin Garden bus stop.
Recommended places to visit in Shikoku: Kochi Area
Kitagawa Village "Monet's Garden" Marmottan is a garden that recreates the beloved Giverny garden of French Impressionist painter Claude Monet. It is the only garden in Japan officially authorized to use the name "Monet's Garden." This special space where Japanese natural beauty with French art is a popular healing spot. You can experience feeling as if you're inside a painting with seasonal flowers and water lilies blooming on the water surface throughout the four seasons.
Access: From Kobe Sannomiya, take a highway bus (Shinki Bus) to Kochi Station for about 4 hours, then JR and Tosa Kuroshio Railway to Nahari Station for about 1 hour 15 minutes. From Nahari Station, take Kitagawa Village bus for about 10 minutes and get off at "Monet no Niwa-mae."
Google Map
Notable points:
- The only garden in the world officially authorized by France to use the "Monet's Garden" name
- Café "Monet's House" offers dishes made with local ingredients and menus recreating Monet's recipes
- The museum shop sells Monet-related goods and flower seedlings grown in the garden
Oroshi-danchi Area
A new hot spot for the latest trends!
A new cultural spot with trendy cafes and bookstores. Don't miss the Tsutaya Bookstore, which resembles a local market, and the sweet potato dessert specialty shop Imoya Kinjiro. Relax and experience the local culture of Kochi.
Getting there: About 15 minutes by tram from the Kochi Station Bus Terminal.
Hirome Market
Indulge in some of Kochi's gourmet foods!
The Hirome Market has plenty of local delicacies to choose from. Try some freshly seared bonito and local sake. With a street stall-like atmosphere, you can also enjoy chatting with the locals!
Getting there: About 15 minutes on foot from Kochi Station.
Katsurahama
A Ryoma Sakamoto statue & scenic beach
Here, a statue of Ryoma Sakamoto overlooks Katsurahama, a popular beach facing out to the majestic Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach and listen to the sound of the waves.
Getting there: About 30 minutes by bus from Kochi Station.
Recommended places to visit in Shikoku: Matsuyama Area
Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan's 12 original existing castle keeps, built on the summit of Mt.Katsu (132m above sea level) in central Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture. This castle, which retains a strong Edo period atmosphere, is beloved by many tourists as an excellent spot to experience Japanese history and culture.
Access: From Kobe Sannomiya, take a highway bus (Shinki Bus) to Matsuyama-shi Station for about 4 hours. From Matsuyama-shi Station, take the Iyo Railway city tram to "Okaido" stop for about 10 minutes, then walk about 5 minutes to reach the ropeway/chairlift station.
Official website
Notable points:
- The castle keep and turret complex with remaining Edo period architectural style is a must-see spot for history enthusiasts
- From the castle keep, you can overlook Matsuyama city and the Seto Inland Sea, with particularly spectacular views at sunset
- The unique climbing stone walls from the hillside to the main enclosure showcase ingenious defensive features
Dogo Onsen
Relax in Japan's oldest hot spring!
With a history of 3,000 years, this is Japan's oldest hot spring, famously featured in Natsume Soseki's novel, Botchan. The traditional wooden hot spring architecture evokes a sense of travel nostalgia!
Getting there: About 20 minutes by tram from Matsuyama City Station.
Mitsuhama
A mecca for shaved ice lovers!
Especially popular is the shaved ice from Tanakado, a retro-style shop that draws long lines of customers every year.
Characterized by fluffy ice and rich syrup toppings, these snow cones are so delicious you'll want one not only in summer, but even in the colder seasons! The Mitsuhama area is also a port town with some nostalgic old streets.
Getting there: About 20 minutes by bus or train from Matsuyama City Station.
Click here for details about Mitsuhama! (YouTube)
Okaido Shopping Arcade
Shopping & gourmet
The largest shopping street in Matsuyama, perfect for souvenir hunting! It's also a great spot to unwind at a café and enjoy some specialty local dishes.
Getting there: About 10 minutes on foot from Matsuyama City Station.
Why ride with Shinki Bus?
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Convenient direct services:
Travel directly from Kobe to Shikoku's major cities.
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Frequent services:
Multiple departures daily.
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Affordable fares:
Discount tickets and round-trip discounts available.
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Easy booking:
Conveniently book and purchase tickets online.
