SHIKOKU - JAPAN

Shikoku is thought of as a rural backwater, with few must-see attractions and Shikoku is often ignored by both Japanese and foreign tourists. However, a visit there can wash away those thoughts; the mountainous inner regions offer some good hiking and a glimpse of the elusive “Real Japan”. It is also the home of the 88 Temple Pilgrimage of the Shingon sect of Buddhism.
It still remains the natural beauty it always was due to the fewest visitors, and has much to offer. The Awa Odori festival, Matsuyama Castle, a beautiful coastline and the best noodles (Sanuki-Udon) in Japan are but a few of the things that will make a trip to Shikoku worthwhile

Going to Kagawa prefecture only to try some udon is worthwhile, even for Japanese people. Udon can be eaten everywhere in Japan, but only people who tried some udon in Kagawa can know what real udon is like.
Visitors can be overwhelmed by the wave of the heat at Awa-Odori which is held during Obon holidays (Aug. 12th to 15th).

If you have time, we highly recommend that you should make a pilgrimage there. The trail is about 1,400km and it takes about 2 months on foot, about 3 weeks by bicycle, one week by scooter or car.
Even though you may not be a Buddhist, you can try the great journey as lots of nonreligious Japanese people are traveling as pilgrims there. That is for sure that it will be one of the greatest journey you make in your life!!

The real beauty of Shikoku is the remaining nature which can easily be seen when one goes a bit deeper inland and takes the narrower roads in the mountain areas and gorges; any place which is not famous enough to be a touristic spot.