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Shikoku 1

Shikoku

Shikoku is a huge island located in the southwest of Honshu, Japan, and includes Tokushima, Kagawa, Ehime, and Kochi prefectures. Surrounded by the sea, it has many mountains and rivers, ancient cities with a long history and traditional cultural customs. When you visit Shikoku, you can encounter Japanese culture that is different from Hokkaido, Kanto, Kansai, Kyushu and other places. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Shikoku. Beautiful scenery woven by nature and scenic spots where you can experience Japanese culture are scattered throughout Shikoku.

Shikoku Top 10 Activities

Top things to do in Shikoku

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Featured activity reviews in Shikoku

Best time to visit Shikoku

Data source: Meteostat・Last updated: 2025-09

Weather in Shikoku throughout the year

Spring (March–May): Average 12.6–19.9°C, mild and rainy, with occasional showers. Common activities: Enjoying Shikoku's natural scenery, such as the cherry blossoms and fresh greenery spread across the mountains. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt, rain gear.

Summer (June–August): Average 23.3–29.0°C, hot and humid, frequent rainfall. Common activities: Swimming at the beach, enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking. Recommended clothing: Lightweight and breathable short-sleeved clothing, shorts, sunscreen, rain gear.

Autumn (September–November): Average 20.7–15.4°C, comfortable and pleasant, reduced rainfall. Common activities: Viewing autumn leaves, enjoying autumnal cuisine. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt.

Winter (December–February): Average 8.4–8.5°C, cold and dry, less rainfall. Common activities: Soaking in hot springs, enjoying winter landscapes. Recommended clothing: Warm jacket, sweater, scarf, hat.

Weather in Shikoku

Annual average temperature: approx. 18°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 2464 mm / Summer humidity: 70%–80% / Rainiest month: August

Shikoku weather by month

MonthJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember
Temperature7.2°C8.5°C12.6°C17.3°C19.9°C23.3°C27.9°C29°C27.1°C20.7°C15.4°C8.4°C
Rainfall (mm)3378.7192.7282336332.7346.7417.3203.389.7115.736.2

7-day weather forecast for Shikoku

Date11/9Monday11/10Tuesday11/11Wednesday11/12Thursday11/13Friday11/14Saturday11/15Sunday
WeatherOvercastSunnySunnyOvercastOvercastPatchy rain nearbyLight drizzle
High18.1°C16.9°C16.5°C18.4°C19.8°C19.2°C18.1°C
Low10.6°C9.3°C7.1°C9.8°C10.4°C10.6°C14.5°C

Shikoku travel FAQs and useful info

Is it worth visiting Shikoku in 2025?

Shikoku is the smallest of Japan's four main islands and is comprised of four prefectures: Ehime, Kochi, Tokushima, and Kagawa. If you have already explored Japan's popular Golden Route and are seeking a new and enriching travel experience, Shikoku would be an excellent choice for your 2025 travels.

What is the best season to visit Shikoku?

Spring, from March to May, offers warm, sunny days making it an ideal time for visiting Shikoku, especially for those interested in the Shikoku Pilgrimage. While early March can still be chilly from winter's lingering effects, the weather gradually warms up from late March, coinciding with the beautiful blooming of cherry blossoms across the plains.

How challenging is the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage?

The Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage is a significant undertaking, considered a challenging hike that spans approximately 698.5 miles with an elevation gain of 96,082 feet, typically taking over 24 hours to complete. Trails on this pilgrimage often involve longer distances and can feature steep climbs or other demanding obstacles.

What makes Shikoku, Japan, unique?

Though Shikoku is the smallest of Japan's four major islands, it offers a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. It features stunning coastlines along the Seto Inland Sea, delicious udon noodles, rejuvenating onsen (hot springs) that have inspired films, and it is the starting point for the renowned Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, as well as a vibrant summer destination for traditional Japanese dance.

What are the main prefectures of Shikoku?

Shikoku is divided into four distinct prefectures: Ehime Prefecture, known for its historical Dogo Onsen; Kochi Prefecture, famous for its rugged coastline and samurai history; Tokushima Prefecture, home to the Awa Odori dance festival; and Kagawa Prefecture, celebrated for its delicious udon noodles and art islands.