Shozu District is a destination for travelers looking to combine coast, scenery, and culture in one trip. Shōdo Shima is an island in Kagawa Prefecture and part of Setonaikai National Park. Angel Road draws attention to the tides; in the Nakayama area, rice terraces and a harvest tradition dating back around 300 years take center stage. Other highlights include a hiking trail and a ropeway at Kankakei, as well as visits related to film and food. When planning your trip, the schedule is shaped not only by the activities but also by low tide, ferry schedules, and reservations.
Coastline in Time with the Tides
Shōdo Shima can only be reached by ferry. Check the current ferry operators and schedules before your trip. Angel Road is a sandbar that appears only twice a day at low tide. The times vary by date, so plan your visit according to the current tide table. Angel Road is also home to Hill of Promises, a viewpoint where visitors can ring a bell. As access conditions may change, check them before your visit. This means a coastal stop cannot be planned independently of the tide.
Rice Terraces and Mushiokuri in Nakayama
The Nakayama area has around 700 rice terraces on slopes at elevations of 150 to 250 meters, surrounded by mountains on three sides. Nakayama was included in the selection of Japan’s 100 most beautiful rice terraces. The elevation and mountain scenery are part of the landscape here, providing a distinctive setting for the terraces.
The area is also home to Mushiokuri, a tradition dating back around 300 years. People walk along paths by the rice fields carrying bamboo torches and pray for a good harvest. This recurring tradition connects the rice fields with a cultural event. If you would like to experience Mushiokuri, check the current dates and visitor guidelines in advance.
Kankakei: Ropeway and Hiking Trail
The Kankakei Ropeway is 917 meters long and covers an elevation difference of 317 meters. Check the current operating and schedule information before your ride. Kankakei also has a hiking trail that takes about an hour in one direction. Along the way, you can see bizarre rock formations and wild-growing plants. Trail conditions vary by season, so check them before setting out. The ropeway and hiking trail offer different ways to experience the area, with an approximate duration known for the one-way walk.
Film, Animals, and Local Food
The Twenty Four Eyes Film Village on Shōdo Shima was converted from the film set of “Twenty Four Eyes.” Chōshikei Monkey Country is home to more than 600 fed wild monkeys; the number may vary. These attractions add film history and wildlife viewing as further themes to consider when planning your trip.
There are also specific opportunities to explore food and its production. The Thousand-Year Olive Terrace offers olive oil courses led by an olive oil taster, with advance reservations. Check current availability. Yamaroku Shoyu welcomes visitors to tour its warehouse for naturally aged moromi; check the current visitor guidelines in advance.
Another local specialty is the hand-stretched somen noodle-making tradition that has been passed down on Shōdo Shima since ancient times. The somen noodles are smooth and have a firm texture. Unlike a course that requires reservations or a warehouse tour, the focus here is the traditional production method itself.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Manno, Kotohira, Sanuki, Higashikagawa, Takamatsu, Zentsūji, Nishishirakata, Naoshima
Return to the main travel overview: Kagawa Prefecture.
