The smallest of Japan’s four islands, Shikoku is a true hidden gem of history and spirituality. What it lacks in size it makes up for in sweeping mountains and valleys, rugged coastlines, and secluded traditional towns straight out of anime.
In fact, Dogo Onsen in Ehime Prefecture was the inspiration behind the bathhouse in Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away while Pom Poko, also from Ghibli, portrays the island as the home of its mythical tanuki (raccoon) heroes.
It’s no surprise then that Shikoku is ripe for Koyo (autumn-leaves) viewing adventures, especially of the off-the-beaten-track kind. There are four prefectures in Shikoku: Tokushima, Kochi, Kagawa, and Ehime. Below is a pick of just some of the best spots where you’ll be able to experience Japanese autumn in full technicolor.
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