Shikoku Karst
Riding through the Shikoku Karst offers one of Japan’s most spectacular highland cycling experiences. Straddling the border of Ehime and Kochi Prefectures, this elevated plateau sits at around 1,400 meters and features rolling grasslands, dramatic limestone outcrops, and panoramic views stretching across Shikoku’s mountains.
The route includes steep climbs and winding roads, rewarding cyclists with breathtaking scenery and a sense of remote adventure. Highlights include Mejiro-yama Viewpoint, where the ridgeline seems to stretch endlessly, and Tengunokawa, a scenic rest stop with a small lodge and café. With its combination of challenging ascents and stunning landscapes, the Shikoku Karst is an unforgettable ride for those seeking a true mountain cycling experience.
Route
The Karst peaks at about 1450m above sea level so it is quite a significant climb to get up there.
Things to do
The Karst
Mezurudaira Camping Ground
Mezurudaira Campsite is right at the top of Shikoku Karst and offers beautiful views. It does get quite popular during peak season. It’s unlikely that one wouldn’t be able to set up a tent at all however it does get crowded
Yuzuhara
Yusuhara is a small town in the mountains of Kochi just south of the Karst and features a lovely Edo-era town and is definitely worth a walk through
Mishima Shrine features a beatuiful river over the river
Getting there and away
The Shikoku Karst is not particularly easy to get to by public transit.
Matsuyama
Matsuyama is approximately a 75km ride to the Northeast
Susaki
Susaki is closer than Matsuyama at about 55km to the East
