Hey there! So, let me tell you about this incredible autumn adventure I recently had in Shikoku. You know when you think you’ve seen all the best spots, and then one trip just blows your mind? That’s what happened to me.
Unveiling the Charm of Ishizuchi Mountain
First stop was Ishizuchi Mountain in Ehime Prefecture. Honestly, I thought a mountain is a mountain, right? But not this one. It’s one of Japan’s top 100 mountains, and wow, the views! The colors are just insane. The whole place is a painter’s palette of red, orange, and yellow hues. I caught the Ishizuchi Momiji Festival by chance — complete with mochi throwing! The air was crisp, and the energy was just infectious. If you go, aim for mid-October to mid-November. The entrance is free, but keep some cash for local treats and perhaps a donation during the festival.
Getting Lost in Oda Deep Mountain Valley
Next up was the Oda Deep Mountain Valley. This place is like stepping into a fairytale. Imagine a 1.5 km trail surrounded by vibrant leaves in every shade of autumn. There’s this ancient legend about a dragon living here — I mean, come on, how cool is that? I spent a good chunk of time just wandering and snapping photos. Make sure to visit late October to mid-November when the colors are at their peak. The best part? It’s free to roam!
Magical Evenings at Matsuyama Castle
And then, there was Matsuyama Castle. I wasn’t sure about visiting a city area for foliage, but boy, was I wrong! The castle grounds turn into a magical wonderland at night with all the lights. There’s a Japanese garden and a tea house where you can soak it all in. The highlight? The stunning array of ginkgo and maple trees illuminated against the night sky. The entrance to the garden was around ¥500 (about $3.50 USD), so pretty affordable.
If you’re planning a trip to Shikoku during autumn, these spots are absolute must-visits. Trust me; I’m already planning to go back, maybe earlier in the season next time to catch those first fiery leaves. If you decide to explore, let me know how it goes — I’d love to hear your thoughts and maybe swap some more travel tips!
