Shikoku

Shikoku is deeply rooted in a history shaped by the emergence of Buddhism in Japan and the development of the famous Shikoku Henro, a 1,200-kilometer pilgrimage to 88 temples. This spiritual tradition, spanning over 1,200 years, has profoundly shaped the island's cultural landscape, giving rise to numerous temple architectures and local customs.The island also boasts remarkable architectural legacies from the feudal era, including well-preserved castles like those of Matsuyama, Kōchi, and the imposing Marugame Castle, one of Japan's twelve original castles. These fortresses offer insights into the military architecture and way of life of the Samurai era. Cultural distinctiveness also manifests in traditional crafts such as Aizome indigo dyeing in Tokushima or the production of Tosa Washi paper in Kōchi, reflecting the artistic heritage of the region.The vibrant cultural life is evident in the annual Awa Odori Festival in Tokushima, one of Japan's largest dance festivals, which attracts visitors with its specific rhythms and traditional costumes and continues a centuries-old tradition.