Shikoku Karst
Shikoku Karst is also a grazing ground for cattle, where the beautiful white limestone against the blue sky creates a picturesque pastoral landscape. The Shikoku Karst Traverse Route, which extends from the eastern "Tengu Plateau" to the western "Ono Plateau," is an ideal spot for driving, hiking, and touring. Here, you can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and refresh your mind and body.
While the Shikoku Karst Traverse Route offers spectacular scenery and is a wonderful driving route, some sections have narrow roads, so caution is needed with oncoming traffic. Additionally, the route may be closed due to snow during the winter months, so it's important to plan ahead.
This area boasts numerous attractions, such as "Himekurudaira," "Godan Plateau," and "Tengu Plateau." Visitors can enjoy seasonal landscapes, alpine plants, and the sight of peaceful cattle in the meadows, making it especially refreshing for driving enthusiasts. Shikoku Karst is indeed an appealing destination for nature lovers and those looking to relax.
Basic Information
- Spot Name
- Shikoku Karst
- Location
- 〒791-1802 Nishitani, Kumakogen-cho, Kamiukena-gun, Ehime Prefecture, Japan
- Access
- Take the route bus to "Shinden" and transfer to the Tsuno Town municipal bus heading to "Tengusou." It is a one-hour drive from the Kumakogen Town Hall.
- Parking
- Available
- Contact Information
- Phone Number：0892-21-1192
- Official Website
Map
Detailed Information
The "Shikoku Karst," which stretches along the ridge that spans Ehime and Kochi Prefectures, offers stunning views of unique karst landscapes such as the flat limestone fields resembling a herd of sheep, known as "karrenfeld," and the bowl-shaped depressions called "doline." The panoramic scenery at an elevation of 1000 to 1500 meters and the rare alpine plants are a must-see! The expansive land, endless blue skies, and herds of grazing cattle create a pastoral landscape.
▶ Refreshing drive on the "Sky Road" (Prefectural Road 383)
The breathtaking views at an altitude of 1000 to 1500 meters
Prefectural Road 383 runs approximately 25 km east to west through the Shikoku Karst. The vast grasslands dotted with white limestone outcrops offer a beautiful view, making it an exceptional driving route where the azure sky and fluffy white clouds feel nearby. The continuous road cutting through the expansive grasslands has been designated as one of Japan's "One Hundred Famous Roads."
▶ Pastoral scenery in the dairy farming area of "Ohnogahara"
A popular area with ranches and pensions
"Ohnogahara," located at the western end of the Shikoku Karst, is famous for its standout limestone formations protruding from the grasslands. With homes, cow sheds, silos, and accommodations like pensions and cafés, it becomes a bustling tourist destination in the leisure season and a cool retreat in the summer. The view from the elevated "Genji ga Dama" is fantastic, and on clear days, one can see as far as the Bungo Strait.
▶ Tourist hub of the Shikoku Karst: "Himekuradaira"
Impressive panoramic pastures as far as the eye can see
"Himekuradaira" serves as a tourist center in the heart of the Shikoku Karst. It has accommodations and camping sites scattered throughout, allowing visitors to enjoy stunning mountain views during the day and a starry sky at night. From spring to autumn, you can witness the picturesque sight of grazing cows along with large wind turbines adding color to the karst landscape.
▶ Enjoy unique karst scenery at "Godan Plateau"
A premier viewing spot in Shikoku Karst
"Godan Plateau" features karst-specific landscapes, including exposed limestone rock formations and depressions known as dolines. The view from an elevation of 1456 meters is magnificent, offering a panoramic view of the Shikoku Mountain Range. The sight of the grazing cows leisurely strolling across the plateau provides a healing scene. With a bit of luck, you may even get to see the grazing cows up close.
▶ Enjoy rich nature along the walking trails at "Tengu Plateau"
Explore hiking trails surrounded by lush natural forests
"Tengu Plateau," located at the highest point of the Shikoku Karst at an altitude of 1485 meters, offers various scenes throughout the seasons, such as fresh greenery in spring, alpine plants like "Hankai-sō" in summer, and autumn foliage. With well-maintained walking trails meandering through natural forests, including the "Forest Bathing Therapy Road," visitors can enjoy a different landscape compared to the pastures.
