Shikoku Mountains
Mountains Mountain range dominating central Shikoku island
The Shikoku Mountains run down Japan’s interior, offering long-distance hiking, river valleys and onsen towns; walkers and pilgrims use routes that connect remote villages and mountain temples across the island.
The Shikoku Mountains form a central mountain spine running roughly east-west across Shikoku island, separating the island’s northern and southern coastal plains. The range includes Shikoku’s highest summit, Mount Ishizuchi at 1,982 metres.
The ranges are the product of tectonic uplift and volcanic activity that shaped Shikoku’s interior; they historically formed natural barriers between communities on the island’s north and south coasts. Many peaks have long been associated with mountain worship and local pilgrimage routes.
The range stretches across central Shikoku, influencing parts of Ehime, Kōchi, and Tokushima prefectures and forming the island’s primary watershed.
- Highest peak: The highest summit reaches 1,982 metres, making it the tallest peak on Shikoku and one of western Japan's more prominent mountains.
What to See #
- Mount Ishizuchi: Mount Ishizuchi, the highest peak in the range and on Shikoku, rises to 1,982 metres and is a popular destination for hikers and religious pilgrims.
How to Get to Shikoku Mountains #
Access from regional hubs-Takamatsu, Kochi and Tokushima-via local trains and buses. For deeper access, hire local transport or arrange guided treks from mountain villages.
Tips for Visiting Shikoku Mountains #
- If trekking sections of the Shikoku Mountains, plan daily distances carefully-villages and lodgings are sparse in some stretches.
- Use regional rail hubs (Takamatsu, Kochi or Tokushima) as bases and hire local buses or rentals for mountain access.
- In autumn (koyo) the ridges are photogenic-consider weekday travel to avoid crowds at popular viewpoints.
Best Time to Visit Shikoku Mountains #
Autumn for foliage and clear weather; spring and early summer are also good, but watch for monsoon rains.
Weather & Climate near Shikoku Mountains #
Shikoku Mountains's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Continental - Warm-Summer Continental climate with warm summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -4°C to 25°C. Heavy rainfall (2212 mm/year), wettest in June.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 3°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -4°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (138 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. Heavy rain (212 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Heavy rain (235 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 14°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (349 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is mild with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (344 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is the warmest month with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Heavy rain (205 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 16°C. Heavy rain (273 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (157 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
