Shikoku

Shikoku Island is surrounded by the Seto Inland Sea to the North and the Pacific Ocean to the South.  It's mountainous interior is considered sacred and for this reason Shikoku is visited by many on religious pilgrimages.  Shikoku is known for its stunning natural beauty, historic castle towns and impressive temples.

This tour will begin in the hustling city of Osaka before visiting the highlights of Shikoku, and then returning to mainland Honshu with the journey ending in Tokyo, Japan's vibrant capital city.

Days 1 & 2

Fly Japan Airlines from London Heathrow to Osaka Kansai.  On arrival transfer by airport bus to the Hotel Granvia, stay for two nights in a twin room on a room only basis.

Day 3

This morning you will be met for a walking tour of Osaka.  This will include visits to the Aerial Garden Observatory, Osaka Castle and a river cruise.

Day 4

Make your way to Osaka Station and using your rail pass travel to Takamatsu on the islandof Shikoku.  Takamatsu is a modern city and once was a castle town during the Edo period of the 17th century.  Places of interest include Tamamo Park - the site of Takamatsu Castle, and Ritsurin Park on of the best landscaped gardens in Japan.  Stay for two nights at the ANA Hotel Clement Takamatsu in a twin room on a room only basis.

Day 5

Today is at leisure.  Perhaps explore Takamatsu or maybe use your rail pass to travel the short journey to Kotohira, home to the famous Kotohiragu Shrine one of Shikoku's most popular attractions.

Day 6

Continue your journey by train to Tokushima City in the East of Shikoku.  Tokushima is known for the Awa-odori dance which is regular performed during festivals and at the Awa-odori Kaikan Hall.  Stay for two nights at the Tokushima Tokyu Inn in a twin room on a room only basis.

Day 7

Today is at leisure.  Perhaps visit Naruto, a short journey by train from Tokushima City, it is famous for it's magnificent fast flowing whirlpools in the Naruto Straits.  These can be viewed from above by taking a stroll along the O-Naruto-bashi Bridge during high and low tides.

Day 8

Travel onwards by train to Kochi in the South of Shikoku.  Once a castle town, Kochi city is now the head economic and cultural centre for the prefecture.  Attractions include Kochi Castle, Harimaya Bridge and the shopping streets of Obiyamachi and Kyomachi.  The beautiful Katsurahama Beach lies at the South of the city.  Stay overnight at the New Hankyu Hotel Kochi in a twin room on a room only basis.

Day 9

Continue by rail to Matsuyama, the largest city in Shikoku. On a hill in the centre of Matsuyama stands the castle, the symbol of the town.  The castle can be accessed by ropeway, at top of the castle you will find magnificent views over Shikoku including Mt. Ishizuchi and the Sea of Iyo.  Stay for two nights at the ANA Hotel Matsuyama in a twin room on a room only basis.

Day 10

Day is at leisure.  Perhaps visit nearby Dogo Onsen on the outskirts of Matuyama, it is said to be the oldest spa in Japan. 

Day 11

Make your way to Matsuyama Airport for Japan Airlines flight to Tokyo Haneda.  On arrival at Haneda Airport you will be met and transferred by private car to the Shiba Park Hotel.  Stay for three nights at the Shiba Park Hotel in a twin room on a room only basis.

Day 12

This morning join the Dynamic Tokyo Tour.  This will include visits to the Tokyo Tower Observatory, a tea ceremony at Happoen Garden, the Imperial Palace Plaza, a Sumida River Cruise, Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise Shopping Arcade.

Day 13

Day is at leisure to explore Tokyo.

Day 14

Transfer by airport limousine bus to Tokyo Narita Airport for return Japan Airlines flight departure to London Heathrow. 

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