Shikoku, smallest of Japan's four main islands, has throughout history maintained its isolation well. Even today, with the construction of bridges that connect it to the rest of Japan, so few travellers make it this far that it remains one of the last essentially undiscovered places in Asia. Those who do make the effort to leave the bustle of Japan's city life behind soon find themselves rewarded by an island of immense natural beauty, steeped everywhere in colourful legend and history. Not least, deep in the centre of the island are the stunning valleys of Iyadani, the "Tibet of Japan", to where, 800 years ago, the remnants of the Heike clan fled after their defeat at the hands of the Genji. Everywhere are ancient broad-leaved forests, idyllic hot springs (including, at Dogo, the country's oldest spa resort dating from the 8th century) and timeless rustic hamlets all framed by some of the finest coastal scenery in all Japan.

For the Japanese, Shikoku is perhaps most famous for its pilgrimage tour of the 88 Sacred Temples and it is the dearly held ambition of almost all to complete a circuit of the island at some point in their lives, following in the footsteps of the country's greatest saint, the revered Kobo Daishi. It is from this pilgrimage that The Oriental Caravan has taken inspiration and direction for its latest exclusive offering and, in keeping with pilgrim tradition, we intend to complete the circuit of the island, albeit by train and bus, in a clockwise manner. This pioneering journey will reward participants with a rare glimpse into the last vestiges of a mysterious, rural Japan where the pace of life slows to the rhythm of the seasons, and where natural and spiritual treasures unfold at every step. 

Tour ends Osaka

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