Highly rated and now expanded—experience the luxurious Iyo-nada Monogatari 6-star sightseeing train for a relaxing trip through Shikoku!

Text provided by Qidou Travel Network; Images courtesy of Xiangsheng Travel

Japan’s No. 1 rated sightseeing train—the Iyo-nada Monogatari—offers 6-star service and breathtaking seaside views, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Riding the Iyo-nada Monogatari is a dream come true for train enthusiasts. Its uniquely designed exterior, inspired by the gradient hues of the Iyo-nada sunset in deep crimson, paired with vibrant golden tones, blends nostalgia with modern flair for an eye-catching charm.

The scenic journey passes through Matsuyama Station, Shimonada Station, and Iyo-Uchiko Station, traveling along the most beautiful coastline of Ehime in Shikoku. Passengers can enjoy the endless ocean views from comfortable carriages, accompanied by coffee, tea, and cakes served on board. Over the roughly two-hour ride, you’ll notice that each piece of Imari ware from Ehime has its own unique design—making the exceptional details part of the extraordinary journey!

When visiting Shikoku, soaking in an onsen is a must. The Kochi Onsen Mishizu-en, located by the Kōji River, is surrounded by a lush traditional Japanese garden. Among its features is a nagaya (long house) originally built by a feudal lord from the final years of the Edo period, along with other historical documents and memorabilia that give it unique historical significance.

Stepping into the large bathing area of Mishizu-en, you’re greeted with sweeping river views, along with various baths including high-temperature, cold water, and sauna options. The most popular is undoubtedly the open-air hot spring—soaking under a starry night sky offers the ultimate bathing pleasure. The highly anticipated kaiseki dinner is prepared using fresh, seasonal local vegetables and fish, noted for its delicate preparation and exquisite flavors.

Renowned as one of Japan’s Three Hidden Valleys, the Iya Valley was formed by the Shimanto River cutting through the Shikoku Mountains over millennia of geological activity. It includes the great and small Oboke Gorges. “Oboke” (大歩危 / 小歩危) refers to cliffs so treacherous they’re dangerous to walk across whether taking big or small steps. The sheer, knife-edged rocks gave rise to the name "Great Dangerous Precipice."

To take in the valley scenery between Kochi and Oboke, taking a sightseeing cruise is the smartest choice. Gliding through towering, steep cliffs while slowly admiring the landscape on both banks, you’ll marvel at nature’s craftsmanship. Along the way, seasonal flowers add splashes of color to the gorge.

Japanese art and culture are beautifully reflected in traditional Japanese gardens. Shikoku’s most famous, Ritsurin Garden, was meticulously developed in 1625 by the then lords of Sanuki Domain (the former name of Kagawa Prefecture). It is one of the most renowned “strolling-style daimyo gardens” of the Edo period and a must-visit garden for travelers.

Spanning 75 hectares, Ritsurin Garden features six ponds, 13 artificial hills, and over 10 pavilions. With the nearby emerald-green Shiun Mountain as a backdrop, it includes small bridges, flowing streams, pavilions, and pine forests. In spring, when flowers are in full bloom, the natural scenery blends seamlessly with cultivated plants—a naturally stunning garden not to be missed.

For those who love old street culture, the Aizome (indigo dyeing) Old Street in Wakimachi is not to be missed. The architecture here retains the distinctive gabled walls—small protruding walls built between the first and second floor roofs—that form a unique local feature. Wakimachi was a major hub for Awa indigo dye during the Edo to Taisho periods. Many mansions of indigo merchants from that time feature different styles of gabled walls, oni-gawara (demon tiles), and fireproof insect cage windows—designs that also symbolize wealth, embodying the essence and wisdom of traditional Japanese architecture.

Wakimachi’s handcrafted indigo-dyed small bags, clothing, and curtains are also unique. When exploring the old street, why not pick up a memento to bring home memories of your Shikoku journey?

More related information
Recommended Itineraries:
Mar 18 Exclusive 5-Day Iyo-nada Monogatari Railway Heritage Tour in Shikoku (Guaranteed Departure)
Jan 21 5-Day Leisurely Shikoku Shimanto River Cruise (Last Few Spots Left)
Jan–Mar 6-Day Charming Shikoku & Hiroshima Tour (Now on Sale!)
Xiangsheng Travel Agency (02)2507-4688
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