Shikoku Karst Route

Nearby sightseeing spots

• 1

  Starting Point: Odamiyama Rest Area

  Odamiyama Gorge bursts into life with fresh green leaves from late May. In early July, fireflies dance above the streams, and you can cool off by splashing in the shallow waters. From late October through early November, the gorge transforms into a canvas of vibrant autumn colors. Enjoy the ever-changing colors of trees and wildflowers, soak up the energy of nature, and embark on Ehime Prefecture's longest adventure route.

• 2

  Komi Bus Stop

  An about 10-kilometer walk from Odamiyama Rest Area brings you to the Komi Bus Stop. From here, a bus makes four round trips daily to Ochide, home to the Yanagitani Branch Office of Kumakogen Town, primarily serving local residents. To reach Ochide, continue straight at the intersection. To follow the Shikoku Road toward the Shikoku Karst, turn right.

• 3

  Explanation Board

  At an average altitude of 1,150 meters, Onogahara was once a challenging place to grow crops. Early pioneers turned to dairy farming, and today, its rolling hills and lush grasses have earned it a reputation as a premier milk-producing region. For more details, refer to the explanation board at this intersection.

• 4

  Onogahara Rest Area

  Expansive grasslands ahead create a tranquil, pastoral landscape. Along the way, you may encounter fellow hikers or riders. Onogahara is a favorite spot for summer camping and winter highland activities. Along the route, you can quench your thirst with some "freshly squeezed" milk sold on the trail and unwind at one of the inviting rest areas.

• 5

  Ancient Beech Forest

  Since ancient times, this primeval forest has quietly and steadily nurtured life. This hidden gem, embraced by one of western Japan's largest beech forests, bursts with blooming alpine flowers year-round. A stroll here is more than a forest walk, it's like taking a "bath in the Earth," awakening a vibrant sense of life in every cell of your body. This vast ancient forest is designated as a special area within a protected nature conservation zone. At the beech forest entrance, an information board provides guidance as you set off into this ancient woodland.

• 6

  End Point: Guidepost

  At the course's end, you'll find a guidepost marking your turnaround point. Beyond this point, the trail ends, please turn back here. On your return journey, about 300 meters past the Onogahara Rest Area where you previously stopped, look for a signpost for Genjigadaba. This signpost marks the starting point for the next stage of your journey.