Shodoshima boasts a lot of charming spots throughout the seasons! I’ve selected five hidden special places that might not be well-known to most tourists. Some of these places may be a bit challenging to reach, but the sense of accomplishment is truly rewarding! Why not take plenty of beautiful photos and share them on your own social media?
Now, let’s briefly review the access to Shodoshima.
From Takamatsu Port, there are ferries to both Tonosho Port and Ikeda Port, each taking about 60 minutes. There is also a high-speed boat to Tonosho Port, which takes approximately 35 minutes. Although there are only two daily departures, there is also a ferry from Takamatsu East Port to Sakate Port.
From Okayama, ferries depart from Shin-Okayama Port to Tonosho Port (about 70 minutes), from Uno Port to Tonosho Port via Teshima Island (about 90 minutes, passenger ships take about 60 minutes), and from Okayama-Naoshima Port to Obe Port (60-70 minutes). Coming from Kansai, ferries depart from Himeji Port to Fuda Port (about 100 minutes) and from Kobe Port to Sakate Port (about 3.5 hours).
While you can use local buses for transportation within Shodoshima, having a car is recommended to reach the scenic spots introduced this time. You can either bring your own car on the ferry or utilize rental cars on the island. With a car, conquering these five spots in a day is entirely feasible.
Kosenokasaneiwa
A massive stone proudly stands on the mountain ridge, overlapping boldly. The giant rock, serving as the object of worship at Jyuigan Fudo Stone Hammer Shrine, remains shrouded in mystery—whether it was artificially stacked or occurred naturally. Regardless, words cannot adequately describe the breathtaking scenery! Interestingly, this spot is strategically positioned with the sun at your back, making it beginner-friendly for capturing the massive stone with the beautiful blue sea and sky in the background.
However, reaching the spot involves navigating narrow and winding roads up the mountain, followed by about two hundred steps from the parking lot and finally ascending a mountain trail with chains. Exercise caution as the terrain can be challenging. Wearing sneakers or other sturdy shoes is essential.
Kose, Shodoshima-machi, Shozu-gun
It takes about 15 minutes by car from Tonosho Port to the parking lot, then about 20 minutes on foot.
Nishinotaki Ryusui Temple
Nishinotaki Ryusui-ji, the 42nd temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage on Shodoshima, known as Choshu-ji Hombu Daibasan Jigan-in on the Daiozan, is an ancient temple with the Eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva as its main deity, renowned for its divine manifestations. Situated on a mountain with an elevation of 500 meters, this site has long been considered a sacred place for mountain worship, where ascetic practices by mountain priests were conducted.
The breathtaking views from this location, which has also been used as a filming location for movies and dramas, truly transcend the ordinary. From the approach that seems to soar straight to the sea to climbing further beyond the main hall and through caves, the scenery unfolds in a truly otherworldly manner!
Looking at the map, the route seems quite challenging, but there is a parking lot at the entrance of the approach, so you don’t actually need to walk too far. However, be cautious when driving on the narrow and steep winding mountain road leading to the parking lot.
558 Ikeda, Shodoshima-cho, Shozu-gun
It takes about 15 minutes by car from Ikeda Port to the parking lot.
Shiroyama Park/Okatei
If you’re a fan of dramas, you might recognize this scenery. Yes, it’s a location that frequently appeared in the television drama “N no Tame ni” and holds significant importance in the story. The view of the Seto Inland Sea from here is also exceptional. As the name suggests, this area is known for cherry blossoms, so it might be worth visiting during the cherry blossom season.
This place is within walking distance from Ikeda Port, but it involves a mountain trail, so dress appropriately. If you are going by car, please pass by the National Lodging Shodoshima and proceed to the nearby parking space. (Please be cautious as the road is narrow.)
Ikeda, Shodoshima-machi, Shozu-gun
If you are walking, take the mountain trail from Ikeda Port near Ikeda Sashiki. When I actually walked, it took about 30 minutes from Ikeda Port, including the mountain path.
If you drive, it will take about 15 minutes from Ikeda Port to the parking space.
Shihoji Observation Deck
The Shihou Shite Observatory is situated between Choshikei and Kankakei, offering panoramic views. Located in a corner of the Beautiful Plain Plateau, the vicinity gives the impression of a neatly maintained park.
Ascending the seemingly art-like concrete observatory, you’re greeted with a 360-degree panoramic view! From the north, you can see Honshu, and the view stretches southwards to Takamatsu. Due to the position of the sun, the same sea offers different impressions, providing a unique and enjoyable landscape.
It was truly the perfect location to feel the vastness of the sky and the expansive sea.
1117, Kamikaketo Ayama-Otsu, Shodoshima-machi, Shozu-gun
About 5 minutes by car from Kankakei Ropeway Sancho Station. From Tonosho, there is also a route that passes through the Kankakei Skyline.
Yakatazaki Sunset Hill
And finally, I highly recommend enjoying the sunset at Yawatahama, which has been selected as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Sunsets”! It seems that recently, local enthusiasts have worked to enhance the area, creating dazzling spots such as elevated squares, swings, and seaside viewpoints.
Why not go a little early and take your time to watch the sun set?
Yagatazaki, Tonosho-machi, Shozu-gun
About 20 minutes by car from Tonosho Port.