A week in Shikoku

Kochi market

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Eating with the local business men

Matsuyama

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Arriving in Dogo with my bag in 37 degree heat and about 80% humidity I had two possible routes to the hostel: up 140 stairs or...

Matsuyama

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up the hill... I chose the second...

Matsuyama Castle

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Great to get here early in the morning before the crowds- climbed the mountain with the locals doing their daily fitness, rather than waiting for the cablecar.

Bride and Groom

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A traditionally-dressed bride and groom who were delighted when a foreigner asked to take their photos.

Matsuyama

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A lovely man I met when exploring a garden in Matsuyama. He had grown up in the area and lived there all his life, and made sure that he came to the garden weekly. He proceeded to show me around the garden and explain the symbolism of different patterns and plants, after leading me up a little hill on the boundary of the garden to point out the city's sights and historically significant buildings and monuments. Another lovely man who went out of his way to be friendly to me

Kashima

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A beautiful little island 30 or so minutes from Matsuyama. After taking the ferry and passing the two shops on the island I climbed through the forest to the top of the mountain and back without seeing anyone. The first time I had been in a place not packed with people since arriving in Japan. Just magical.

Kashima

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The drop-dunny squat toilet wasn't so magical. Although much worse was to come later in my trip. Un-photographable!

Kashima

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The view of the inland sea with the forest all around me

Kashima

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Just me and the deers

Dogo Onsen (hot spring)

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People such as these, whom I suspect were Madames and clients, on their way to the girl of choice, were here and there in the onsen town.

Dogo Onsen

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One of the private rooms available for tea and sweets post-bathing

Matsuyama Youth Hostel

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Homely, cozy place to stay

Ishite Shrine

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Inside the tunnel. SO dark, no people, the roof dripping with condensation, and a few hundred metres long. Great fun!

Ishite Shrine

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The tunnel that pilgrims walk through as a religious act

Dogo foot spa

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Beautiful hot onsen water which anyone can stop at to bathe their feet. Good after a day of exploring!