Shodoshima Travel Guide: 12 Must-See Attractions and Recommended Itineraries

Discover Shodoshima’s Top Attractions & Recommended Itineraries

Shodoshima, a beautiful island in the Seto Inland Sea, is known as the birthplace of olives in Japan and is famous as the filming location for the movie Twenty-Four Eyes. The island is filled with photogenic spots perfect for social media, such as the mystical sand path of Angel Road, the breathtaking Kankakei Gorge, and the Greek-style windmill and “magic broom” at Olive Park.

This article introduces 12 carefully selected attractions on Shodoshima, recommended for both first-time visitors and repeat travelers. We also share practical model itineraries to help you make the most of your time on the island, even with a limited schedule.

Whether you want to immerse yourself in stunning natural scenery, explore history and culture, enjoy stylish photo spots, or savor delicious local cuisine, Shodoshima offers attractions for every type of traveler.

Let’s take a closer look at the island’s most popular spots.

Shodoshima

Shodoshima is the second-largest island in Kagawa Prefecture, located about 20 km northeast of Takamatsu City. The island has a circumference of about 126 km and covers an area of approximately 153 km².

It’s a destination where rich nature and history combine to create beautiful landscapes. From breathtaking viewpoints and spiritual sites to art spaces and stylish photo spots, Shodoshima offers a wide range of attractions.

Top Picks! 12 Must-See Attractions in Shodoshima

Shodoshima is full of fascinating attractions, but here we highlight the 12 most popular. From natural wonders and photogenic hotspots to historic and cultural landmarks, let’s dive into the island’s diverse charms.

Angel Road (Path of the Angels)

Angel Road is a mystical sandbar in Tonosho Town that appears only twice a day at low tide. It is designated as a “Lover’s Sanctuary,” where it is said that couples who walk across hand in hand will have their wishes granted. The site has also been used as a filming location for many movies and TV dramas.

The panoramic view of Angel Road from the Promise Hill Observatory is especially stunning, and the “Bell of Happiness” located there makes it one of the island’s most popular spots.

Angel Road Shodoshima Guide 2025 | A Walkable Sandbar and Beautiful Ocean Views

Walk the low-tide sandbar of Angel Road on Shodoshima. Check official tide times, see Nakanoshima and Promised Hill Lookout, and get bus and car access from Tonosho Port.

Shodoshima Olive Park

Shodoshima Olive Park, located in Nishimura, Shodoshima Town, is a roadside station that commemorates the birthplace of olives in Japan. With about 2,000 olive trees and a white Greek-style windmill, the scenery evokes the Mediterranean. A film set from the live-action Kiki’s Delivery Service has been relocated here, and visitors can also borrow a “magic broom” for free to take whimsical, photo-worthy pictures.

The spot with the Greek windmill and olive groves as a backdrop is particularly popular, offering spectacular views overlooking the Seto Inland Sea and making it one of Shodoshima’s most photogenic landmarks.

Shodoshima Olive Park: Complete Guide to Photo Spots, Scenic Views, and Local Treats

Discover Shodoshima Olive Park’s best photo spots, scenic views, and local olive treats—from white-and-blue Greek windmills to charming monuments and unique sweets.

Kankakei Gorge

Kankakei Gorge, located in central Shodoshima, is one of Japan’s three most beautiful gorges, created about 13 million years ago through volcanic activity that left behind dramatic rock formations and cliffs. It was designated a National Scenic Spot in 1923 and is especially famous as a destination for autumn foliage.

The panoramic view from the Kankakei Ropeway is truly breathtaking, and the scenery has been awarded one star in the Michelin Green Guide.

Shodoshima Kankakei Gorge Travel Guide: Discover Breathtaking Scenic Views and Must-See Attractions

Discover the stunning beauty of Shodoshima’s Kankakei Gorge with our complete guide. Take in panoramic views from the ropeway and observation decks, explore seasonal highlights, enjoy local gourmet specialties, and get easy access tips for first-time visitors.

Maze Town

Maze Town, located near Tonosho Port, is a historic neighborhood where a network of narrow alleyways was created about 700 years ago to protect residents from pirates and invaders. With more than 60 three-way intersections and winding passages, the area preserves an Edo-period streetscape that feels like stepping back in time.

One of the most iconic views is the red three-storied pagoda of Saikoji Temple peeking through the alleys, a photogenic scene often encountered while strolling through the town.

Dofuchi Strait

Dofuchi Strait in Tonosho Town holds the Guinness World Record as the “world’s narrowest strait.” At its narrowest, it measures only 9.93 meters across. Flowing right through the town center, the strait blends natural scenery into daily life.

A highlight is the view from the bridge that spans the strait, where visitors can look down at the “world’s narrowest strait.” At Tonosho Town Hall, you can also receive a unique certificate proving that you crossed it, making for a fun experience.

Dofuchi Strait, Shodoshima: Walk the World’s Narrowest Strait

Walk across the world’s narrowest strait on Shodoshima. Find Eitaibashi Bridge, get a Crossing Certificate, and see easy bus access to Dofuchi Strait.

Yokai Museum

The Yokai Museum, spread throughout Maze Town, is a contemporary art museum themed around Japanese yokai (supernatural creatures). Multiple renovated traditional houses serve as exhibition halls, with over 900 yokai works created by artists on display.

A unique aspect is that visitors explore the town while moving between the different museum buildings, blending art appreciation with an alleyway adventure — an immersive experience that has become very popular.

Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village

The Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village, located in Tanoura, Shodoshima Town, recreates the setting of the 1954 film Twenty-Four Eyes based on the novel by Sakae Tsuboi. It was built using sets from the 1987 remake and preserves a wooden schoolhouse and streetscapes from early Showa-era Japan.

One of the highlights is the replica of the branch school classroom, where visitors can touch the old desks and blackboards, immersing themselves in a nostalgic atmosphere that feels like a time slip back to the Showa period.

Nakayama Senmaida Rice Terraces

The Nakayama Senmaida Rice Terraces, located in Nakayama district, Shodoshima Town, are listed among Japan’s Top 100 Rice Terraces. Around 800 fields are arranged in a staircase formation at about 200 meters above sea level, creating a beautiful rural landscape that changes with the seasons: mirrored waters in spring, lush green stalks in summer, and golden hues in autumn.

A particularly enchanting event is the “Mushiokuri” (Insect Sending) festival, held annually on the Saturday following Hangesho (the 11th day after the summer solstice). Participants carry bamboo torches as they walk in procession through the terraces, and the flickering lights illuminating the rice fields create a magical sight blending tradition and nature.

Shodoshima Daikannon

The Shodoshima Daikannon, also known as the “Goddess of Happiness,” is a giant statue standing about 50 meters tall in Komagoshi, Tonosho Town. Built in 1994 to enshrine a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha gifted from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth in Sri Lanka, it allows visitors to enter the statue and worship within.

From the observation room at the top, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Shodoshima’s rural landscapes and the Seto Inland Sea.

The statue belongs to a temple called Busshoji, and its Instagram account is worth checking out. The resident monks share lighthearted posts, including drone footage of the Daikannon and even dance videos, making it a fun and unique perspective.

Kasaneiwa (Stacked Rock)

Kasaneiwa, located in Tonosho Town, is a giant boulder perched on a mountain summit, famous as a power spot for its mysterious appearance of “a rock that looks like it might fall, but never does.” The site is also historically significant as it was once a quarry for stones used in the construction of Osaka Castle.

Climbing the stone steps to the summit rewards visitors with an awe-inspiring view of the massive rock and a sweeping panorama of the Seto Inland Sea, offering both a sense of achievement and mystical beauty after a challenging hike.

The Sacred Juniper of Hoshoin Temple

The Sacred Juniper at Hoshoin Temple in Shodoshima Town is a massive tree estimated to be over 1,600 years old, designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan. With a trunk circumference of 17.2 meters and a height of about 16.9 meters, it is regarded as one of the largest trees in Japan.

The overwhelming presence of the tree, with its roots spreading through the temple grounds, creates a powerful atmosphere. Revered as a spiritual power spot, it continues to attract many visitors seeking its sacred energy.

Immerse Yourself in Art: Setouchi Triennale

Shodoshima is one of the main venues of the Setouchi Triennale, with contemporary art installations scattered across the island. These works, displayed against the backdrop of nature and traditional culture, blend seamlessly into townscapes and outdoor spaces, turning the island itself into an open-air museum.

Highlights include works such as Gift of the Sun at Tonosho Port and Sora no Tama (Sky Sphere) at Kankakei Gorge, which harmonize beautifully with Shodoshima’s landscapes. Some installations remain on display even after the festival, while new works are added every three years when the Triennale takes place.

One-Day, Half-Day & Day-Trip Model Itineraries for Shodoshima

In addition to full-day tours that assume an overnight stay, Shodoshima offers convenient itineraries for shorter visits. Even with limited time, you can efficiently experience the island’s diversity — from stunning scenery and historic sites to culture and contemporary art.

The following courses are based on starting from Tonosho Port, but you can easily rearrange the order to suit other ports or accommodations. Choose the plan that best fits your travel style and transportation options.

Easy on Foot! Half-Day Course Around Maejima (Tonosho Port Area)

Dofuchi Strait → Umi no Utsuwa (sd57) → Yokai Museum (all 4 halls) → Transforming Alley Space (sd04) → Maze Town → Angel Road

The Maejima area, where Tonosho Port is located, is compact enough to enjoy on foot. With major attractions concentrated close together, it’s a great option even if your time is limited.

Start at Tonosho Honmachi Bus Stop, then take a one-minute walk to Dofuchi Strait. Next, experience the Setouchi Triennale 2025 artwork Umi no Utsuwa, a glowing boat installation. Continue on to the Yokai Museum, which spans four different halls across Maze Town, then visit the Triennale piece Transforming Alley Space nearby.

Stroll through the winding alleys of Maze Town, originally designed 700 years ago for protection against pirates. Finally, head to Angel Road, the mystical sandbar that appears only at low tide. This half-day or day-trip course perfectly blends history, art, culture, and nature.

Cover All the Classics! Full-Day Standard Sightseeing Course

Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village → Shodoshima Olive Park → Kankakei Gorge → Dofuchi Strait → Maze Town → Angel Road

This classic sightseeing route is ideal for first-time visitors who want to experience Shodoshima’s most iconic attractions in a single day.

Begin at the nostalgic Twenty - Four Eyes Movie Village, then head to Shodoshima Olive Park, where the Greek windmill and olive groves create a Mediterranean atmosphere.

Next, move on to Kankakei Gorge, one of Japan’s three most beautiful gorges, and enjoy the ropeway’s breathtaking views. From there, visit Dofuchi Strait, the Guinness-certified world’s narrowest strait, before exploring Maze Town’s historic alleys. End the day at Angel Road, the enchanting sand path that appears with the tides.

For efficient travel, consider taking the ferry boat that connects Olive Park and Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village, reducing a 30-minute journey to about 10 minutes and giving you more time to explore.

All by Bus! Compact Day-Trip Course to the Island’s Highlights

Kankakei Gorge → Shodoshima Olive Park → Dofuchi Strait → Maze Town → Angel Road

This itinerary is perfect for those without a car, as it allows you to visit Shodoshima’s main spots using only local buses. With carefully selected, easily accessible attractions, it ensures a smooth day trip by public transport. While the route assumes a start from Tonosho Port, it can also be done in reverse from Sakate Port to match ferry schedules.

Begin at Kankakei Gorge, where the ropeway offers sweeping panoramic views. Then visit Shodoshima Olive Park to enjoy its groves and iconic windmill.

In the afternoon, head north to Dofuchi Strait, followed by a stroll through the alleys of Maze Town. Finish your trip at Angel Road, the romantic sandbar revealed at low tide.

If you take a morning ferry from Takamatsu, this plan allows you to return to Takamatsu in the evening. Be sure to check out the local trip report for this course for extra tips.

One Day Shodoshima Challenge: How Much Can You Experience in Just One Day?

Join a real-time journey across Shodoshima to see how much you can experience in a single day. This one-day challenge covers scenic spots, local flavors, and cultural highlights—all without a car.

Scenic Drive by Rental Car: Nature & Art Course

Sacred Juniper of Hoshoin Temple → Ship That Disappeared in the Golden Sea (sd58) → Reverberations (sd59) → Nakayama Senmaida → Embrace・Shodoshima (sd60) → Shodoshima Daikannon → Kankakei Gorge

This rental car course covers Shodoshima’s interior and art sites that are difficult to reach by public transport. It offers a well-rounded mix of natural beauty and Setouchi Triennale artworks.

First, visit the Sacred Juniper of Hoshoin Temple, a giant tree over 1,600 years old. Continue to the Triennale works Ship That Disappeared in the Golden Sea and Reverberations.

Next, enjoy the scenery of Nakayama Senmaida Rice Terraces, also home to the Triennale work Embrace・Shodoshima. Then, visit the 50-meter tall Shodoshima Daikannon, exploring the interior statues and observation floor. End your journey at Kankakei Gorge, where a drive along the Kankakei Skyline offers thrilling mountain and coastal views.

Enjoy Shodoshima Your Way! Make the Most of Your Trip

Shodoshima offers a wide variety of attractions — from natural wonders like Angel Road and Kankakei Gorge, to cultural and historical sites such as Olive Park and the Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village, as well as contemporary art from the Setouchi Triennale. By combining the 12 must-see spots and 4 model itineraries introduced here, even first-time visitors can explore the island efficiently and enjoyably.

While rental cars provide the most freedom and convenience, the island is also well-served by local buses, making it accessible even for those without a car. Each area has its own distinct character: around Tonosho Port, visitors can enjoy historic townscapes and art installations; in the south, cultural experiences linked to films and literature; and inland, expansive natural scenery and spiritual sites.

When planning your trip, be mindful of the tide schedule for walking across Angel Road, or consider using the ferry boat to shorten travel times between attractions. Checking transport connections, bus timetables, and port access in advance will help ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience.

On Shodoshima, you can encounter nature, history, culture, and art all in one place. Choose the spots and itineraries that best match your travel style, and discover your own favorite way to enjoy this enchanting island.