Shikoku Karst
四国カルスト
A high plateau of karst at about 1,400 meters, with white limestone outcrops and grazing cattle on the grasslands. It is a scenic drive with spectacular views.
The Shikoku Karst spans the border between Kochi and Ehime prefectures and stretches about 25 kilometers from east to west. Together with Akiyoshidai and Hiraodai, it is considered one of Japan's three major karst areas. The highland road runs along the ridgeline, flanked by green grasslands and scattered limestone outcrops, where you can see grazing cattle and the distant ranges of the Shikoku mountains. Tengu Kogen, Himetsuru-daira and Godan Kogen are the main scenic stops, and there is a campground. Summer temperatures are about 10°C lower than in the lowlands. The roads are narrow and winding, and they are closed in winter when there is snow. It is about a 2-hour drive from central Kochi City.
Opening hours
All day (winter road closure)
Nearby sights
- Nakatsu Gorge
- Yasui Gorge
- Kure Taisho-machi Market
- Nikobuchi
- Kochi Castle
- Hirome Market
- Kochi Sunday Market
- Harimaya Bridge