Shikoku

Shikoku (四国) is an oft-forgotten island in Japan. The smallest of Japan's Big Four with around four million inhabitants, it lies to the south of Honshu. The island is thought of as a rural backwater, with few must-see attractions, but a visit there can wash away those doubts; the mountainous inner regions offer some good hiking. It is also the home of the 88 Temple Pilgrimage of the Shingon sect of Buddhism.

Regions of Shikoku

Shikoku literally means "four countries", and it indeed consists of four ancient countries (now prefectures) on Shikoku island, conveniently arranged around the compass points. Each prefecture also has an old provincial name, still often found in place names and listed in parenthesis below.

Map of Shikoku

Ehime (Iyo) — to the west

Kagawa (Sanuki) — to the north

Kochi (prefecture) (Tosa) — to the south

Tokushima (prefecture) (Awa) — to the east

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Reference ##9b4b6 Kochi (prefecture)|Kochi.

Reference ##4c089 Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima }}

Cities

• Imabari - famous for its towels and half of the Shimanami Kaido
• Kochi (Shikoku)|Kochi — home of "Yosakoi" and many local sights
• Marugame - One of the island's famous castle towns
• Matsuyama — Shikoku's largest city, best known for the venerable thermal spas (Muslim Friendly) of Dogo Onsen, inspiration of princes and poets
• Naruto (Tokushima)|Naruto — Start of the Shikoku Pilgrimage and home of the nation's famous whirlpools.
• Takamatsu — capital of Kagawa Prefecture, widely known for its superb udon
• Tokushima — home of the Awa Odori festival in August
• Uwajima — (barely) on the tourist map due to an interesting fertility shrine and wrestling bulls

More Destinations

• Cape Ashizuri — a scenic cape at the southernmost point of Shikoku
• Iya Valley — a remote but beautiful mountain valley
• Kotohira — home to Konpirasan, Shikoku's most famous shrine
• Mount Ishizuchi — the tallest peak in Shikoku
• Oboke and Koboke — rafting on the Yoshino river

  Shikoku Halal Travel Guide

Shimanto sada chinkabashi - Chinkabashi Bridge over the Shimanto River

Shikoku is the smallest of Japan's four main islands. It's known for its abundant nature and pristine rivers, including the Shimanto River in Shimanto nicknamed the "last clearwater river in Japan" and the Yoshino River whose turbulent rapids make for great rafting. The island is also rich in cultural legacy. Like the rest of the nation, Shikoku was also targeted by air raids in WWII and although some cultural sites, such as the home of Sakamoto Ryoma were destroyed, most of the island's legacy sites were spared. It is now home to more original castles (four) than any other region in the nation and arguably the most famous Shikoku Pilgrimage|pilgrimage route in the nation.

Local Language in Shikoku

Shikoku is far enough off the beaten track that some Japanese ability, while not absolutely necessary, will come in handy. Some of Shikoku's dialects, notably Tosa-ben spoken in Kochi (Shikoku)|Kochi, are famously incomprehensible even to other (Japanese).

Travel to Shikoku

By car

While there are highways linking Shikoku with Honshu and they are expensive—around ¥7,000.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Shikoku

Prefectural capitals Takamatsu, Matsuyama, Kochi (Shikoku)|Kochi and Tokushima all have small regional airports. Matsuyama has Flights to Seoul and Shanghai, while Takamatsu fields a few flights a week to Seoul. For any other international destinations, you will likely have to connect via Tokyo or Kansai International Airport|Kansai.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Shikoku

Shikoku is not connected to the Shinkansen network, but there are frequent connections from Okayama on Honshu to Takamatsu and from there on throughout the island. The limited express Shiokaze (特急　しおかぜ) runs back and forth betweeen Okayama and Matsuyama roughly every hour during the day, skipping some stations on the way, if you feel like a more direct connection to that side of the island. The pace on Shikoku being what it is, don't come there expecting any of the trains to be super fast. It would also be wise to remember that train information will be in Japanese only, unlike what you may be used to from the Shinkansen. So either be sure to brush up on your knowledge of terms such as "unreserved seats" and the names of the places you're planning to visit, in kanji, or plan to ask a lot of people (which may be more fun, but may also take more time).

Travel on a Bus in Shikoku

If you are coming from Kansai or eastern parts of Japan, buses through Awaji Island are the quickest way of getting to Shikoku.

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Shikoku

There are numerous ferries that run to Shikoku that can be taken from major cities like Kobe and Hiroshima. From Hiroshima to Matsuyama expect to spend ¥2700. The ferry takes around 2 and a half hours.

How to get around in Shikoku

Takamatsu-chikko st01s3200 - Takamatsu-Kotohira Electric Railway

Shikoku can be difficult to get around without your own vehicle, especially to out-of-the-way natural sites sought by many visitors. Trains are infrequent in many parts, as are buses, so travelers who wish to move about the island or explore remote areas should know the timetables of whatever transport you need beforehand. Be aware that some buses only run during specific periods or on weekends and holidays only. Some travelers report feeling that it's more expensive however, this may be due to their perception of Shikoku as the "small island". In actuality and the price per distance is generally the same as more frequented routes. The time required however, is much greater. For example and the price from Okayama to Hiroshima just north on the mainland versus Takamatsu to Matsuyama is almost the same however and the Takamatsu-Matsuyama route takes more than twice as long.

During specified periods and the Yoso Line operates Cycle Trains which allow you to bring your bicycles on the train for easy and convenient cycling along the route.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Shikoku

The JR train network connects the larger towns together fairly well, but regular trains are slow and expresses are expensive. The main lines are:

• JR Yosan Line (予讃線) on the west coast, from Takamatsu to Uwajima via Matsuyama. It also includes the Uchiko Line which connects Iyo to Ozu via Uchiko.
• JR Dosan Line (土讃線) across the center of the island, from Tadotsu to Shimanto (town)|Shimanto (Kubokawa Station) via the Oboke and Koboke|Oboke gorge (near Iya Valley) and Kochi (Shikoku)|Kochi
• JR Kōtoku Line (高徳線) on the east coast, from Takamatsu to Tokushima

For heavy travel, JR offers the Shikoku Free Kippu (四国フリーきっぷ) [https://, which allows unlimited usage of JR trains and buses, including limited expresses, on three consecutive days (¥26,140). If you manage to time it so that you can start on your birthday, ask for the Birthday Kippu instead, and you'll get the same deal for just ¥20,000!

For the frugal traveler and the Shikoku Saihakken Haya-Toku Kippu (四国再発見早トクきっぷ ) may be a better deal, as it offers one day of unlimited travel for just ¥2,000. There are three big catches though: it's only valid on weekends and public holidays, it's limited to local trains, and you have to buy it at least one day in advance.

Tosa Kuroshio Railway is the largest private railway on the island and connects the JR Lines to the far ends of Kochi Prefecture. Some parts of the JR network, notably the southern segment from Kubokawa to Sukumo, have split off and are now owned by Tosa Kuroshio Railway company.

Each of the capitals with the exception of Tokushima have trams that make travel around the downtowns convenient.

Travel on a Bus in Shikoku

Buses fill in the gaps in the train network and are the only means of transport in areas like Cape Ashizuri and the Iya Valley. Schedules are sparse and prices are high.

Halal Friendly Walking Tours in Shikoku

Serious pilgrims may choose to complete the 88 Temple Circuit (see #Do|Do) on foot.

What to see in Shikoku

Castles

Kochi Castle04s3872 - Kochi Castle

Original Castles

There are twelve original castles left in Japan and Shikoku is home to four of them, more than any other region.

• Marugame Castle, Marugame
• Kochi Castle, Kochi (Shikoku)|Kochi
• Matsuyama Castle, Matsuyama
• Uwajima Castle, Uwajima

Reconstructed Castles

• Imabari Castle, Imabari
• Takamatsu Castle, Takamatsu
• Nakamura Castle, Shimanto City|Shimanto
• Kawanoe Castle, Shikokuchuo

Castle Ruins

• Tokushima Castle, Tokushima
• Yuzuki Castle, Matsuyama
• Oko Castle, Nankoku

Shrines

• Konpirasan (Kotohira)

Gardens

Shiratamafuji 20160902 - Tenshaen Garden

• Ritsurin Garden (Takamatsu)
• Makino Botanical Gardens (Kochi (Shikoku)|Kochi)
• Monet Garden (Kitagawa)
• Tenshaen Garden (Uwajima)
• Nanrakuen Garden (Uwajima)

Museums

• Chichu Museum and Benesse House (Naoshima)
• Otsuka Museum of Art (Naruto (Tokushima)|Naruto)
• Shikoku Mura (Takamatsu)
• Teshima Art Museum (Teshima)

Best things to do in Shikoku

Rafting on the Yoshino River - Braving the rapids, Oboke and Koboke

• 88 Temple Pilgrimage - The 88 Temple Pilgrimage is a famous but grueling 1,647-kilometer hike around the entire island.
• White-water rafting - The rafting in the Yoshinogawa River near Oboke and Koboke is said to be quite good.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Shikoku

• The most sought after present or "omiyage" after a visit to Shikoku is udon noodles. Fresh Noodles can be purchased at almost any souvenir shop.
• Gifts related to the traditional pilgrims (henro) and their outfits are also popular, including a "Henro" Hello Kitty cell phone charm. These can be found in gift shops.

Halal Restaurants in Shikoku

There aren't any "Shikokuan" foods per se, but each prefecture has something that they're famous for:

• Ehime: Sweet mikan mandarin oranges
• Kagawa: Sanuki udon noodles
• Kochi (prefecture)|Kochi: Bonito (Katsuo), a type of small tuna fish
• Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima: Sudachi a little smooth green citrus fruit, like a lime

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Shikoku

Shikoku - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Shikoku, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Shikoku. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Shikoku and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Shikoku. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Shikoku. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inShikoku: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Shikoku.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Shikoku: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Shikoku, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Shikoku.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Shikoku, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Shikoku, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Shikoku and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Shikoku, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Shikoku, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Shikoku without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Shikoku is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Shikoku.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Shikoku is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Shikoku, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Shikoku Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Shikoku

eHalal Group Shikoku is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Shikoku. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Shikoku.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Shikoku ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Shikoku. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

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Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Shikoku

• Chugoku - Easily accessible by train, car, or ferry, from natural sites, such as the nation's largest cave in Akiyoshidai and the sand dunes of Tottori to rich historical cities, like Hiroshima and Okayama and the Chugoku region offers a wide variety of unique travel experiences.
• Kansai - A pleasant escape from the mostly rural Shikoku to Osaka and Kobe are makes for a fun trip. With a plethora of historical and cultural sites in Kyoto, Nara, and Ise, a trip to Kansai can be enjoyable for all types of travelers.

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