Shikoku is a large island separated by sea from Kansai and Kyushu, and it has long been a popular motorcycle touring destination, especially among riders from the Kansai region.
Shikoku is also known for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a journey that spread during the Edo period. Because of this history, the island has a deeply rooted culture of welcoming travelers — a spirit of hospitality that can still be felt today.
Approaching Shikoku via the Seto Inland Sea routes, riders are treated to scenery reminiscent of traditional Japanese ink paintings: countless islands scattered across calm waters and ships quietly passing by.
This area is also home to the famous Shimanami Kaido, well known as a cycling route but equally enjoyable by motorcycle.
The Pacific side of Shikoku offers exceptional touring both along the coast and through the mountains. Traffic is generally light, allowing riders to enjoy relaxed and immersive riding surrounded by nature.
Along the coastline, spectacular routes extend toward Cape Muroto and Cape Ashizuri, where roads stretch out toward the vast Pacific Ocean.
In the mountains, riders can experience iconic routes such as the UFO Line winding across the Shikoku Karst plateau, and the legendary Tsurugi Super Forest Road, both offering unforgettable scenery.
While many of Shikoku’s mountain roads are narrow and challenging — even national highways can be tight and technical — these demanding routes are rewarded with breathtaking viewpoints found nowhere else in Japan.
For touring Shikoku, we recommend routes that start in Osaka or Fukuoka, crossing the Seto Inland Sea bridges or combining ferry routes to reach the island.
At Mototourist, we design flexible touring plans tailored to your schedule, preferred routes, and riding style, selecting the best options for each season and destination.
For more information about traveling in Shikoku, visit the official Japan Travel website
by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).
Below are sample itineraries designed to help you plan SHikoku motorcycle tours. These routes are provided as references for riding distances, travel pace, and overall route structure.
Each sample itinerary is just one example. Routes can be customized in many ways depending on your preferences, including accommodation choices such as hotels, traditional onsen ryokan, or a combination of both. By adjusting daily distances and overnight stops, we can tailor motorcycle tours in Japan to match your riding style, schedule, and travel goals.
Sample Itineraries for Motorcycle Tours in Japan
→ Japan’s Hidden Roads & Sacred Landscapes
This 8-day itinerary begins in Osaka and explores the heart of Shikoku...
This guide is part of our complete Motorcycle Tours in Japan overview.
Plan unforgettable motorcycle tours in Japan. Discover the best season...
