Shikoku 四国
Shikoku (pop. 4 million) is Japan's fourth most important island in terms of size and population, preceded by Honshu, Hokkaido and Kyushu.
The name Shikoku means "4 countries", and indeed the island is divided in 4 prefectures, corresponding roughly to the old feudal domains. They are Ehime, Kochi, Tokushima and Kagawa.
History
The feudal domain of Tosa, making most of southwestern Shikoku, was one of the most powerful and insubordinate domains in the Tokugawa era.
Touristic attractions
Shikoku is often ignored by both Japanese and foreign tourists due to its remoteness and lack of compelling attractions. Although it isn't that far from Osaka, transportation inside the island is usually slow, expensive and irregular.
The town of Takamatsu in Kagawa prefecture boasts one of Japan's loveliest garden, the Ritsurin-koen (ŒI—ÑŒö‰€).
Four of Japan's few original castle (as opposed to concrete reconstruction) are to be found in Shikoku. They are in the town of Kochi, Marugame, Matsuyama and Uwa-jima. The most picturesque is probably that of Matsuyama, Ehime's prefectural capital.
If you have plenty of time and energy, you could try the Kobo Daishi's 88 Temples Circuit around the island, which is the best possible highlight of Shikoku's traditional (or Buddhist) heritage. It is Japan's most famous pilgrimage, and requires about 2 months to walk the 1500km trail. Nothing prevents you to use public transports or just limit yourself to a part of the circuit, though. One of the most popular stop is Kotohira's Kompira-san Shrine in Kagawa prefecture.
Tokushima is the usual starting point of the 88 Temples Circuit, and is reputed for its Awa dances and puppets.
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