1-Day Tour of the Beautiful Olive Island of Shodoshima

Overview

Home to mountains and spectacular coastlines, Japan’s largest olive plantations, and much more, Shodoshima is a must-visit island for those near Shikoku. Get on a ferry from Okayama to Shodoshima for a one-day tour of the stunning island!

Highlights

Key Information

Description

Shodoshima, translating to "Island of Small Beans," is the second-largest island in the Seto Inland Sea between Shikoku and Honshu Islands. Covered in mountains, breathtaking coastlines, and boasting a Mediterranean-like climate, the island is famous for its beautiful nature. But what makes Shodoshima stand out amongst Japan’s many nature-rich islands, is its renowned production of soy sauce and olives. Join a day tour and explore the natural and cultural treasures of Shodoshima! The tour begins at New Okayama Port, where you and your guide will depart to the island by ferry. Once on Shodoshoma, get on a sightseeing bus and prepare to explore the island’s major attractions. After a stop at a tourist information center, stop at Choshikei Monkey Park — home to around 500 Japanese macaques. The monkeys are free to roam in a location near a ravine in the mountains, covered with old structures of the vast park. The next stop is Kankakei Gorge, which is ranked as one of Japan's three most beautiful gorges. The dramatic cliff faces and rivers turn into an even more stunning sight during autumn, when the foliage transforms into impressive shades of reds and yellows. Take a ropeway to the upper station and marvel at the majestic views framed by the sea. Nature aside, Shodoshima is also home to an intriguing traditional pilgrim route that is relatively unknown by tourists. While the 150–160 km route passes by every major sightseeing spot on the island, its featured 88 sites include lesser-known spots. The small chapels maintained by locals and temples built into caves are particularly interesting sites. The tour will briefly visit this route before heading to Nijushi no Hitomi (Twenty-four Eyes) Film Village. This place was once a movie set for the 1954 movie Nijushi no Hitomi and is now home to a reconstructed village with a nostalgic atmosphere. The tour’s most important destination is Olive Park — the birthplace of olive plantation in Japan. With Shodoshima’s Mediterranean-like climate, the island became Japan’s top producer of olives and olive oil, giving in the name “Olive Island.” The park is a working olive grove featuring a replica Greek windmill, a bathhouse, a small museum, and serene walking paths. When the tour finally comes to an end, prepare to board the newly operating ship of Olympia Dream Seto, designed by Japanese Industrial designer. Book now!