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Shikoku

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Travel guide
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Travel guide

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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

Month
Temperature (°C)
Rainfall (mm)
January
7.2°C
33
February
8.5°C
78.7
March
12.6°C
192.7
April
17.3°C
282
May
19.9°C
336
June
23.3°C
332.7
July
27.9°C
346.7
August
29°C
417.3
September
27.1°C
203.3
October
20.7°C
89.7
November
15.4°C
115.7
December
8.4°C
36.2

7-day weather forecast for Shikoku

11/4
Wednesday
Overcast
20.3°C/11.9°C
11/5
Thursday
Overcast
21.7°C/15.7°C
11/6
Friday
Sunny
21°C/12.8°C
11/7
Saturday
Sunny
16.9°C/8.8°C
11/8
Sunday
Overcast
16.3°C/7.6°C
11/9
Monday
Partly Cloudy
18.3°C/9.1°C
11/10
Tuesday
Patchy rain nearby
14.9°C/8.8°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.