Things To Do
in Shōdoshima
Shodoshima is the largest island in the Seto Inland Sea, part of Kagawa Prefecture. Renowned for its olive cultivation since the postwar era, it blends lush hills and coastline with traditional villages. The island offers scenic gorges, quiet beaches, and a coastline dotted with fishing harbors and citrus groves.
Accessible by ferry from Takamatsu or Uno, Shodoshima is a relaxed destination for nature, culture, and gastronomy.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Shōdoshima Olive Park, where you can stroll among the fragrant olive trees. Enjoy a guided tour that explains the history of olive cultivation in Japan, highlighting its unique climate and soil. Don’t forget to sample some fresh olive oil and other local products at the park's shop.
After lunch at a nearby café, head to the Olive Museum to learn more about the production process and its significance to the island's economy. Explore the exhibits showcasing olive oil's health benefits and historical uses. Take a leisurely walk through the landscaped gardens that provide stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant specializing in dishes made with olive oil, such as olive oil pasta and salads. The ambiance is cozy, and you can indulge in some local wine paired with your meal. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing at your accommodation, perhaps enjoying the gentle sea breeze.
Start your day with a visit to the Kankakei Gorge, where you can hike through lush forests to the historic Kankakei Temple. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take time to meditate or reflect at the temple grounds. Capture the breathtaking views of the gorge from the observation deck.
Continue your cultural exploration by visiting the Olive Park’s associated temples, where you can learn about their significance in Japanese history. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony, where you can appreciate the intricate art of tea preparation. Interact with temple monks who can share stories about their practices and lifestyle.
In the evening, return to the main town and treat yourself to a meal at a traditional Japanese izakaya. Sample local specialties like Shōdoshima soy sauce and other regional dishes that highlight the island's agricultural bounty. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, soaking up the serene nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $7-15 |
| 🚌Public transit ride (local bus) | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $4-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery including Gorges, coastlines, and olive groves
- Unique regional cuisine centered on olive oil and soy sauce
- Relaxed pace of life with easy ferry access from Takamatsu
- Limited nightlife and some areas require a car or bike to explore
- Smaller scale than mainland destinations, fewer international dining options
- Weather can affect ferry schedules during typhoon season
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hai / Iie" - Yes / No
- "Ikura desu ka?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Shōdoshima
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic gorge with multi-layered cliffs and pine forests; best in morning light for dramatic shadows.
Rows of olive trees against the sea with hilltop viewpoints; excellent for golden-hour portraits.
A sandbar that appears at low tide, great for romantic silhouettes and shoreline textures.
Rugged sea cliffs, fishing boats, and small harbors along the eastern coast for coastal photography.
Food in Shōdoshima
Shōdoshima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Udon lightly tossed with locally produced olive oil for a fragrant, light finish.
Must-Try!
Seafood simmered or grilled with Shodoshima soy sauce for a savory, umami-rich taste.
Tempura fried in a drizzle of Shodoshima olive oil for a gentle, fruity aroma.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seaside market offering fresh seafood, local produce, and olive products.
Coastal stalls with grilled fish skewers and seasonal snacks by the harbor.
Small vendors near Olive Park selling olive oil samples and light bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light bow is a common greeting; handshake is less frequent in casual settings.
Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional inns or temples.
Talk softly on trains and buses; avoid loud conversations in public areas.
Follow onsen etiquette: wash before soaking, no swimsuits in most baths, and tie hair back if long.
Safety
Tipping in Shōdoshima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite service is included in prices. If tipping, do so discreetly in small cash with a smile, but it’s often not expected.
Cash is widely accepted; many places take credit cards, and some smaller shops may be cash-only. IC cards (like Suica/PASMO) are useful for transport; check if accepted by local merchants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming fruit trees, and shoulder-season crowds—great for hiking and photography.
Warm to hot and humid with a chance of typhoons; enjoy beaches, coastal walks, and olive oil tastings.
Pleasant days with cooler evenings and fall colours on the hills; ideal for outdoor activities.
Cool but generally mild; some coastal winds; quieter, with opportunities for serene seaside photography.
Shōdoshima at Night
Hiking in Shōdoshima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day-hike along forested paths with viewpoints across dramatic rock faces.
Gentle coastal trail weaving among olive trees with sea views.
Rugged sea cliffs and small beaches along the eastern coast.
Airports
How to reach Shōdoshima by plane.
Closest major airport with domestic flights and access to ferries to Shodoshima.
Access via bus/flight options; connect to Uno or Takamatsu for ferries.
Gateway for travelers from southern Shikoku; transfer to buses/ports to reach Shodoshima.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Aging population in rural communities with strong ties to traditional industries.
Growing number of visitors seeking nature, cuisine, and cultural experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular school and amateur leagues; common for locals to enjoy at parks.
Common in local clubs and school teams; many fields on the island.
Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling around coastal areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shōdoshima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are vegetable-forward; ask for dashi-free options and rely on olive oil-based dishes.
Look for vegetable dishes without fish sauce or dashi; many places can accommodate with olive oil and rice.
Soy sauce contains gluten; request gluten-free soy sauce or omit soy sauce and use salt instead.