Things To Do
in Iyo
Iyo is a coastal city on Shikoku's eastern edge overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. It blends maritime heritage with rural charm, citrus groves, and friendly locals. The streets reveal historic harborfronts, traditional crafts, and fresh seafood markets that showcase seasonal produce.
A gateway to nature and culture, Iyo offers easy access to scenic coastal trails and relaxed, hospitable Japanese village life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in the historic center of Iyo by visiting the Iyo Shioya Shrine, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. After soaking in the spiritual ambiance, stroll through the traditional streets and admire the well-preserved wooden buildings that tell stories of the past. Stop by a local café for a traditional Japanese breakfast with fresh soy milk and locally made tofu.
Spend your afternoon at the Iyo City Museum of History and Folklore, where you can delve deeper into the rich history of the region. The museum houses various artifacts that illustrate the local culture and heritage, providing fascinating insights into daily life in Iyo. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk along the river, taking in the picturesque scenery and perhaps catching a glimpse of local wildlife.
As the sun sets, head to a local izakaya to sample delicious Iyo cuisine, including fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals make for a memorable dining experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoying the charm of the town as it transitions into night.
Wake up early and head to one of Iyo's renowned onsen, where you can soak in natural hot springs surrounded by beautiful landscapes. The warm waters are said to have healing properties, providing a perfect start to your day. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the onsen, featuring local delicacies that will fuel you for the day ahead.
After your relaxing morning, explore the nearby countryside with a guided tour of the lush rice fields and scenic views. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about traditional rice farming techniques and even try your hand at planting rice, an integral part of Japanese culture. Stop for a picnic lunch featuring local specialties while basking in the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Return to the onsen for another soak before dinner, allowing the warm waters to rejuvenate you after a day of activity. In the evening, indulge in a kaiseki dinner, a traditional multi-course meal that highlights seasonal ingredients and local flavors. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the onsen as you savor each dish, making for a peaceful end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transportation daily pass | $5-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🧳Souvenir and small crafts | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coastal scenery and easy access to nature
- Fresh seafood and citrus-rich local cuisine
- Quiet, relaxed towns with traditional culture
- Limited nightlife in some areas
- Public transport outside city centers can be sparse
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Toire wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Iyo
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm morning waters, fishing boats, and distant islands create a peaceful backdrop for wide-angle shots.
Colorful harbor silhouettes, nets drying on racks, and market activity provide dynamic compositions.
Panoramic sea views with a mosaic of islands, ideal for sunset and panoramic photography.
Food in Iyo
Iyo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Ehime fish cake made from small fish ground into a paste, formed into a flat cake and fried; best tried at seaside eateries or markets.
Must-Try!
Rice cooked with sea bream and aromatics, a comforting coastal specialty often found in local ryokan and eateries.
Desserts and drinks featuring local mandarin oranges, from tarts to sorbets and refreshing beverages.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls offering fresh seafood, fried snacks, and local produce; a great place to sample first-hand coastal flavors.
Markets near the harbor with bite-sized seafood bites, skewers, and regional snacks ideal for a quick lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite bowing, speaking softly in public spaces, and using formal language; remove shoes where required (homes, ryokan, certain temples).
Offer and receive with both hands; avoid tipping and avoid pointing with a finger; handle items with care.
Queue orderly for trains and buses; keep voices down on public transit; show respect at shrines and temples.
Safety
Tipping in Iyo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and is generally not expected; a polite thank you is appreciated.
Cash is widely used, especially in markets and small eateries. Credit cards are accepted at many hotels, larger shops, and tourist-friendly venues; contactless payments are common in cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blossoms along rivers; great for temple gardens and outdoor strolls.
Hot and humid with sea breezes; typhoon season can affect travel plans; enjoy beaches, markets, and fresh seafood.
Pleasant weather and clear skies; fall foliage in the hillside areas makes for beautiful hikes and scenic drives.
Cool but usually mild; occasional frost in higher elevations; onsen towns offer warmth and relaxation.
Iyo at Night
Hiking in Iyo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Shikoku with a range of routes from easy to challenging; guides available for safety and scenery.
Accessible, scenic coastal path offering sea views and island vistas suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Iyo by plane.
Closest major airport serving Iyo; typically reachable by train or bus in about 60-90 minutes.
Regional hub in Kagawa Prefecture; about 2-3 hours by train and ferry connections.
Larger international and domestic airport option; longer transfer time but accessible via rail routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population in rural areas, with active community centers and healthcare services.
Active coastal economy supporting local seafood markets and tourism.
Community centers and schools contribute to a family-friendly atmosphere.
Seasonal visitors drawn to nature trails, markets, and seafood experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport at schools and local clubs; fans gather for high school and community games.
Local teams and junior leagues contribute to a lively community vibe on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Iyo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are fish-based or use dashi stock; look for tofu dishes, vegetable tempura, and rice bowls; ask for light dashi or water-based broths and clarify no fish stock.