Ryokans & Archipel : Tokyo, Takamatsu & Shodoshima - Japon

The Spirit of the Journey: Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the largest urban area in the world. Tokyo is the financial center of Japan and a blend of high-technology and tradition. Tokyo is huge and a well-organized modern city. The city landscape of Tokyo consists of temples and shrines, quiet nature reserves, historical buildings, futuristic architecture and neon lights. The core of the city includes Chiyoda and Chuo. This area features the impressive Imperial Palace, the national government buildings, the famous shopping area of Ginza, Tsukiji fish market, Akihabara electronics market and the historic Tokyo Station. The quiet neighborhood of Asakusa has some must-see attractions such as the Sensoji Temple, the Nakamise-dōri shopping arcade, and the Golden Poo. Nearby is the Ueno area, including the Ameyoko market. A perfect spot to shop for traditional gifts and see a great Buddhist temple. Another major attraction of the city is the Meiji Shrine, located in Shibuya. Tokyo is a unique city that has something for everyone, busy shopping areas, famous nightlife, historical sights, quiet parks, and amazing scenery.

The Spirit of the Journey: Takamatsu is a city located in central Kagawa Prefecture on the island of Shikoku in Japan, and is the capital city of the prefectural government. It is designated a core city by the Japanese Government. It is a port city located on the Seto Inland Sea, and is the closest port to Honshu from Shikoku island. For this reason it flourished under the daimyōs (feudal lords) as a castle town in the fiefdom of Takamatsu, during the Edo period. Takamatsu is a city with a large concentration of nationwide companies' branch offices, which play a large role in its economy, and it contains most of the national government's branch offices for Shikoku. The castle tower formerly used as the symbol of the city was destroyed during the Meiji period. In 2004, construction of the Symbol Tower, the new symbol of Takamatsu, was completed. The Symbol Tower is located in the Sunport area of the city. The Symbol Tower is the tallest building in Takamatsu, and is right next to another tall building The JR Clement Hotel (formerly the ANA Clement Hotel), which is also part of the Sunport complex.

The Spirit of the Journey: Shodoshima, a tranquil island in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, blends Mediterranean charm with classic Japanese scenery. Known for its olive groves, terraced rice fields, and dramatic coastline, the island offers a slower pace that’s perfect for travelers looking to escape the bustle of Osaka, Kobe, or Okayama. Ferries connect Shodoshima to several mainland ports, and once you arrive, a network of buses and rental cars makes it easy to explore its winding coastal roads and hidden valleys. One of the island’s highlights is Kankakei Gorge, ranked among Japan’s most beautiful gorges. A ropeway glides over rugged cliffs and dense forest, offering panoramic views that are spectacular in autumn when the leaves turn vivid red and gold. At the top, short hiking trails lead to viewpoints where you can see the sea dotted with small islands. It’s an easy half-day trip that combines light adventure with truly memorable scenery. Shodoshima’s Mediterranean image comes from its thriving olive industry. The Olive Park, with its windmills, whitewashed buildings, and hillside groves, is both photogenic and educational. Visitors can sample local olive oil, soft-serve ice cream flavored with olives, and olive-infused cosmetics, or simply wander the grounds with views over the calm inland sea. Nearby, quiet beaches and small fishing ports show a more traditional side of island life, especially at sunset. Culture lovers will appreciate the island’s role in the Setouchi Triennale, a contemporary art festival that scatters installations and sculptures across Shodoshima and neighboring islands. Even outside festival years, many artworks remain on display, blending modern art with rural landscapes and abandoned schools or factories. Combined with local soy sauce breweries—some open for tours—temples, and rustic guesthouses, Shodoshima offers a rich, multifaceted experience that rewards those willing to slow down and explore.