Overtourism seems to be part of almost every travel conversation these days. As more destinations grapple with record visitor numbers, many travelers are looking beyond the usual hotspots in search of quieter, more meaningful experiences. If that sounds like your kind of trip, Shikoku has just received a major vote of confidence.
Lonely Planet has named Japan's smallest main island one of the 15 best places in the world to go off-grid in 2026, shining a spotlight on a destination that offers a very different side of Japan.
Located off the southeastern coast of Honshu, Shikoku has long been overlooked by many international visitors, despite offering an incredible mix of nature, culture, and adventure. It's best known for the legendary 88 Temple pilgrimage, a route that circles the island and attracts walkers seeking everything from a physical challenge to a spiritual journey.
While domestic visitors flock to famous events like Tokushima's vibrant Awa Odori Festival and the internationally acclaimed Setouchi Triennale contemporary art festival, Lonely Planet suggests it's the lesser-known experiences that make Shikoku truly special.
One place that Lonely Planet highlighted was Kamikatsu, Japan's pioneering zero-waste village, where sustainability is woven into everyday life. Adventurous travelers can head into the remote Iya Valley to stay in beautifully preserved thatched-roof farmhouses dating back centuries before rafting the crystal-clear waters of the Yoshino River. Others may prefer to explore stretches of the island's famous pilgrimage on foot or seek out surf breaks along the rugged Pacific coastline between Cape Muroto and Cape Ashizuri.
Unlike Japan's biggest cities, traveling through Shikoku often requires a little more planning and self-reliance. Public transport is less extensive, and renting a car can open up many of the island's hidden corners. For travelers hoping to experience Japan beyond the crowds, however, that's precisely the appeal. Shikoku rewards those willing to slow down, venture off the beaten path, and discover a side of the country that still feels wonderfully untouched.
