Shodoshima Island Travel Tips

6 of 12 in Kagawa Prefecture

Shodoshima (小豆島, Shōdoshima) is the second-largest island in the Seto Inland Sea, steeped in myth and beauty. Known as "small bean island," it originally referred to the azuki bean but is now celebrated for its thriving olive plantations and soy sauce production. With its Mediterranean charm, Shodoshima offers stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and breathtaking coastal scenery, alongside the majestic Kankakei Gorge, one of Japan's most renowned gorges.

As a vibrant cultural hub, Shodoshima hosts the Setouchi Triennale art festival, showcasing impressive art installations that dot the island year-round. Visitors can explore a mix of contemporary art and natural beauty, with many installations found in the picturesque port towns along the southern coast. Enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration on this enchanting island!

Getting around

In Shodoshima Island, towns and ports are spread along the coast, while the inland area is mostly mountains. The island is about 20 km wide and is the second largest in the Seto Inland Sea. It has several ferry ports and is well connected to Shikoku, Honshu, and nearby islands. The biggest town is Tonosho, located on the west side, and Tonosho Port offers the most frequent ferries, especially from Takamatsu and Okayama.

Getting around the island is easiest by rental car, which you can find at Tonosho Port and a few other spots. Buses connect the main coastal areas and run often along the southern coast, but service is limited elsewhere. Some places, like the monkey park, aren’t served by bus at all. You can also rent bicycles at Tonosho Port for about 1000 yen per day. During the 2025 Setouchi Triennale, two special bus routes will run a few times a day (500 yen per ride) to help visitors reach art sites around the island.