- How to Drive from Matsuyama to the Shikoku Karst: Two Scenic Routes Compared
- Driving from Matsuyama to the Shikoku Karst? Explore two scenic routes with maps, driving tips, and travel advice to find your perfect drive.
A Paradise in the Sky! Complete Guide to Shikoku Karst
Shikoku Karst is a highland area sprawling across the central part of Shikoku.
Known as a “paradise in the sky,” this place leaves visitors wondering, “Is this really Japan?” with its stunning landscapes.
This article introduces the charm and ways to enjoy Shikoku Karst, including popular spots, accommodation options, and access information.
Shikoku Karst: Where Ancient Seabeds Created Stunning Highland Scenery
Shikoku Karst is a highland area at approximately 1,400m elevation, located on the border between Ehime Prefecture (Kumakogen Town, Kamiukena District) and Kochi Prefecture (Tsuno Town, Takaoka District).
With white limestone scattered across vast grasslands and ridgelines stretching like a horizon, this extraordinary landscape has earned it the nickname “Switzerland of Japan.”
The origin of this land dates back over 200 million years to an ancient seabed. Limestone layers deposited in the sea were uplifted by tectonic activity and eroded by rain and wind over millions of years, creating the unique karst topography we see today.
Notable features of karst topography include:
- Karrenfeld: Exposed limestone rock formations on the surface
- Dolines: Bowl-shaped depressions in the grassland
- Underground river drainage: A characteristic where surface rivers are almost absent due to limestone properties
These geological conditions create well-drained grasslands, supporting grazing and diverse vegetation.
The cattle you see on Shikoku Karst’s grasslands are part of active grazing operations. Beyond supporting local livestock farming, they help maintain the grasslands and preserve the scenery, making them an essential part of the Shikoku Karst landscape.
In summer, grazing cattle can be seen throughout the area, creating a peaceful and expansive pastoral scene.
The Appeal of Shikoku Karst
The greatest charm of Shikoku Karst is the magnificent scenery that fills your entire field of vision. The unique landscape of scattered limestone and clear skies creates views that change with seasons and times of day.
During the day, pastoral landscapes and gentle hills spread out, while at sunset, the sun sinks below ridgelines resembling a horizon. With the sound of wind passing through, time seems to slow down here.
At night, thanks to the high elevation and minimal light pollution, a sky full of stars appears. The Milky Way and shooting stars are sometimes visible, and quiet moments surrounded by stars are a luxurious experience unique to Shikoku Karst.
Rather than being surrounded by nature, it feels like “melting into” nature. That’s the unique experience of Shikoku Karst.
5 Things to Enjoy at Shikoku Karst
Shikoku Karst offers more than just scenic views—there are many ways to spend your time here. From highland walks with close-up scenery to driving, cycling, dining, and staying overnight, experiences are available for every visitor’s style.
1. Experience Stunning Views Up Close | Godankogen & Tengukogen
Shikoku Karst has spots throughout where you can experience its greatest charm—spectacular scenery—up close.
Actually walking, stopping, and feeling the wind allows you to experience the scale and beauty of this land with your whole body.
Godankogen: A Photogenic Spot Where Rock Faces and Grasslands Meet
One place that symbolizes the scenic beauty of Shikoku Karst is Godankogen (Five-step Plateau).
With exposed limestone “karrenfeld,” gently rolling grasslands, and continuous karst landforms, the scenery is picture-perfect from every angle. With nothing blocking the view, photo opportunities abound the moment you pick up your camera.
Godankogen also changes dramatically depending on when you visit. Mornings bring soft mist, midday sunlight highlights the rock surfaces, and evenings paint the grassland golden. With weather and seasons, this natural gallery shows countless expressions.
Tengukogen: A “Sky Walk” You Can Enjoy on Foot
Located at the eastern end of Shikoku Karst, Tengukogen (Tengu Plateau) can be enjoyed not only by car but also thoroughly explored on foot. From the nearby parking lot, paved walking paths lead through the grassland for a luxurious strolling experience.
In summer 2022, the walking path from Tengukogen parking lot to the “Observation Deck” was paved, making access more comfortable. The observation deck is about a 5-minute walk away. A covered rest area has been installed, and from the gazebo, you can overlook all of Tengukogen.
Venture further to reach viewpoints overlooking the karst landscape. Walking the trails while feeling the wind blow across the grassland is “another way to enjoy Shikoku Karst” that you can’t experience by car or motorcycle.
Tengu Forest Sky Corridor: Forest Therapy Nature Experience
To the east of Shikoku Karst lies “Tengu no Mori” (Tengu Forest), surrounded by woodland.
Throughout Japan, there are walking paths called "Therapy Roads" certified as suitable for forest therapy based on physiological and psychological studies. Tengu no Mori is certified as the “Tengukogen Therapy Road.”
Walking paths covered with cypress chips have been developed for leisurely forest strolls.
Transitioning from endless blue skies and vast grasslands, walking along paths with dappled sunlight, the sounds of wind, birdsong, and the scent of trees will soothe your mind and body.
Guides can be arranged, and with advance reservation, a “Therapy Lunch” can be prepared, allowing you to enjoy a special meal in nature.
Sky Corridor - Shikoku Karst Tengukogen Nature Recreation Forest | Tengukogen Therapy Road Guide
2. Drive the Scenic Route | Sky Road Driving & Cycling
Prefectural Route 383, called the “Sky Road,” is a scenic route that embodies the charm of Shikoku Karst. As you follow the road along the ridge, grasslands and open sky fill your view on both sides, and combined with the high elevation, you feel as if you’re driving through the sky.
Along the road, wind-swaying grasslands, white limestone surfaces, and leisurely walking cattle are scattered about, making the constantly changing scenery one of the joys. On clear days, views extend as far as the Ishizuchi mountain range ridgeline.
Experience the “feeling of driving through the sky” on the Sky Road drive in the video below.
Rental cycles are also available on-site to enjoy the Sky Road. Cycling while directly feeling the highland breeze is an activity that provides an even deeper sense of unity with nature.
E-BIKEs (sport-type electric assist bicycles) are also available, making cycling accessible even for those without much stamina.
| Type | 1 Hour | 2 Hours | Half Day (4h) | Full Day (6h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E - BIKE | ¥2,000 | ¥2,500 | ¥4,000 | ¥6,000 |
| Cross Bike | ¥1,200 | ¥1,500 | ¥2,500 | ¥4,000 |
3. Savor Local Flavors at Shikoku Karst | Restaurant Mezurusou & Karst Coffee
After enjoying the scenery, delicious food is always welcome. Shikoku Karst has spots where you can enjoy meals and cafe time while taking in spectacular views. Here we’ll introduce places for “feast time” that satisfy both stomach and soul.
Restaurant Mezurusou: Leisurely Dining with Scenic Views and BBQ
For a relaxing meal during sightseeing, the restaurant at “Mezurusou” is convenient. With set meals, rice bowls, curry, and more, it’s easy to pop in.
BBQ is served at window-side seats where you can enjoy the scenery (reservation required). Unaffected by weather, the charm is being able to dine while taking in the views.
The restaurant features glass walls creating an open atmosphere where you can enjoy meals while gazing at the grassland views spread out before you. It’s the perfect spot for a break or lunch during sightseeing.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Hours | 11:00 am - 2:00 pm (Hours may change or close due to weather) |
| Season | Mid - April to early November |
| Closed | Tuesdays |
| Phone | 0892 - 55 - 0057 |
| Website | https://yanadani-skk.jp/mezurusou/restaurant/ |
Menu
| Menu Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Fried Shrimp Set | ¥1,500 |
| Tonkatsu Set | ¥1,400 |
| Fried Chicken Set | ¥1,350 |
| Fried Amago Set | ¥1,250 |
| Chicken Cutlet Curry | ¥1,150 |
| Fried Amago Curry | ¥1,150 |
| Curry Rice | ¥900 |
| Beef Bowl | ¥900 |
| Beef Karubi Bowl | ¥900 |
| Meat Udon | ¥850 |
| Kitsune Udon | ¥850 |
| Menu Item | Price | Contents |
|---|---|---|
| BBQ Set | ¥3,000 | Beef (200g), sausage, 4 types of vegetables, rice |
Karst Coffee: Grassland Cafe Time with Artisan Coffee
This trailer-style open-air cafe opened in 2020 on the Mezurudaira grassland. Enjoy hand-dripped coffee or cafe au lait made with highland milk while surrounded by 360-degree panoramic views (discount for bringing your own cup).
The coffee and cafe au lait are delicious, and enjoying them while gazing at spectacular views in the midst of nature is a truly luxurious time. This is a must-visit spot when coming to Shikoku Karst.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Hours | Weekends/Holidays 10:00 am - 4:30 pm / Weekdays 11:00 am - 4:00 pm |
| Website | https://www.instagram.com/karstcoffee |
4. Learn and Enjoy Nature | Experiences at Karst Terrace
“Karst Terrace” at Tengukogen is a complex facility combining exhibits, rest areas, light meals, and experiences. Renovated from the former “Karst Learning Center,” it’s now popular as a free natural learning facility.
Inside, learn about Shikoku Karst’s formation, topographical features (karrenfeld and dolines), and alpine plants and wildlife ecology through panels, specimens, and videos. The content is enjoyable for children and adults alike, and it’s a convenient place to visit regardless of weather.
From the terrace attached to the building, on clear days you can see a panorama extending to Cape Muroto and the Ashizuri Peninsula. There’s also a cafe space where you can enjoy soft-serve ice cream and drinks while feeling the breeze.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Winter Dec - late Mar: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm) |
| Closed | Facility: Mondays (next day if holiday) / Cafe: Mon & Fri |
| Phone | 0889 - 62 - 3371 |
| Address | 4921 - 48 Yoshiuno Otsu, Tsuno Town, Takaoka District, Kochi |
| Website | https://karstterrace.com/ |
5. Stay in the Highland | Accommodation Under Starry Skies and Silence
At Shikoku Karst, you can not only enjoy spectacular scenery but also experience the luxury of spending the night within that landscape. Moments spent under a sky full of stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature, are special times that let you forget daily life. Accommodation styles range from camping to cottages to hotels.
Mezurusou
This accommodation includes dinner and breakfast, featuring calm interiors and magnificent views through large windows. It’s well-regarded for its cost performance.
Mezurudaira Cottage
These cottage-style accommodations on the Mezurusou grounds can host 5-7 guests. Equipped with kitchen and unit bath, they’re convenient for family or group stays. Surrounded by magnificent nature, you can relax in private space.
Mezurudaira Campground
A campground where you pitch tents on vast grassland. During the day, feel the highland breeze; at night, enjoy time around a campfire under the stars. Rates are reasonable at ¥500 per tent or ¥500 per vehicle for car camping. Operating season is early April to early November.
Hoshifuru Village TENGU
A resort hotel at Tengukogen featuring spacious rooms, locally-sourced cuisine, and even a planetarium. Recommended for those who want to fully enjoy nature while staying comfortably.
Shikoku Karst Tourist Map | Understanding the Location of Spots
The main tourist area of Shikoku Karst spans about 4.5km from Mezurusou at the western end to Hoshifuru Village TENGU at the eastern end. The road passing through here is Prefectural Route 383, called the Sky Road, which is the main driving course.
Along the road are the scenic viewpoints like Godankogen and Tengukogen introduced earlier, plus accommodation facilities, cafes, campgrounds, and Tengu Forest (Therapy Road)—a diverse array of spots to visit.
Driving the Sky Road only takes about 10 minutes. Along the Sky Road, parking areas are set up at various points where you can stop, photograph interesting scenery, or walk the walking paths at each scenic spot.
| Spot Name | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mezurusou | Accommodation/Restaurant | Rental cycles available here |
| Karst Coffee | Cafe | Enjoy coffee with spectacular views |
| Mezurudaira Campground | Campground | |
| Godankogen | Scenic Viewpoint | Walking paths available |
| Tengukogen | Scenic Viewpoint | Walking paths available |
| Karst Terrace | Exhibits/Cafe | |
| Hoshifuru Village TENGU | Accommodation | Features a planetarium |
| Tengu Forest | Therapy Road | Walking paths available |
How to Get to Shikoku Karst
Shikoku Karst is an area where access by car or motorcycle—either personal vehicle or rental car—is the basic assumption. There is no direct access by public transportation, and even from the nearest bus stop, the distance makes walking or cycling impractical.
For safe and comfortable enjoyment, plan to access by car or motorcycle, check the route in advance, and come fully prepared.
Winter Closure: Major routes to Shikoku Karst including Prefectural Route 383 (Sky Road) and Shikoku Karst Highland Town Road are typically closed from December through late March. Vehicle access is not possible during this period, so please note the timing of your visit.
In autumn (mid-September to mid-October), shuttle buses run from Kumakogen Town and Yusuhara Town to Shikoku Karst on weekends and holidays only. For details, contact Kumakogen Town Tourism Association (TEL: 0892-21-1192).
Read more about How to get to Shikoku Karst from Matsuyama City
Encounter Spectacular Views and Unwind | Your Next Trip to This Paradise in the Sky
Grasslands and sky filling your entire view. The greatest charm of Shikoku Karst is this overwhelming scenery.
Enjoy views of sprawling grasslands and distant mountains, explore exposed limestone karrenfeld, or have BBQ while taking in the scenic views—all would make for a wonderful time.
Staying overnight to gaze at the star-filled sky is also recommended. The starry sky of Shikoku Karst is a natural planetarium created by high elevation and clear air. Time spent gazing at stars in the silence is sure to be an extraordinary, special experience.
Access to Shikoku Karst basically requires a personal vehicle or rental car. However, that means driving itself becomes one of the great pleasures of this area. The exhilaration of driving Prefectural Route 383, called the Sky Road, is a special experience you can’t have elsewhere.
Encounter spectacular views and unwind. Visit Shikoku Karst to experience this “paradise in the sky.”
