Shikoku’s historic sites are spread across four prefectures, so plan by area rather than trying to see everything in one day. Information checked August 24, 2026.
Matsuyama Castle, Ehime
The main enclosure stands on 132-meter Mount Katsuyama. Its keep is one of Japan’s twelve surviving original keeps, and 21 buildings are nationally designated Important Cultural Properties—not National Treasures. Seasonal hours apply, and last admission is 30 minutes before closing.
Kotohira-gu, Kagawa
Known as Konpira-san, this shrine is associated with guardians of the sea. There are 785 stone steps to the Main Shrine and 1,368 in total to the Inner Shrine. Wear stable shoes, carry water, and allow time for the descent.
Ritsurin Garden, Kagawa
This Special Place of Scenic Beauty is a strolling daimyo garden with six ponds, thirteen landscaped hills, and celebrated pine scenery. It opens year-round, but monthly hours broadly follow sunrise and sunset.
Tokushima Castle Ruins, Tokushima
Combine the castle ruins with Tokushima Castle Museum and the former palace garden. The original Washi-no-mon Gate burned in the 1945 air raid; the present gate is a 1989 reconstruction.
Planning
Give Ehime and Kagawa at least one day each. Check official pages for current hours, closure days, and weather-related restrictions before departure.