Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Ikata, Japan

If you are visiting the island of Shikoku in Japan, consider exploring one of the lesser-known towns in the region: Ikata, situated in the Ehime Prefecture.

This region is renowned for its mountainous landscapes and is part of the expansive Sadamisaki Peninsula.

This geographical feature allows visitors to enjoy both the majestic mountains and breathtaking ocean views, making it a prime destination for those seeking a blend of seaside charm and mountain adventure.

Ikata presents a more tranquil side of Japan. If you aim to escape the usual tourist hotspots and prefer to experience local culture by staying in traditional inns such as ryokan, while also observing the historical livelihoods of the Shikoku region, this town serves as an excellent choice.

Here are the 15 best activities to pursue in Ikata…

1. Check Out Sadamisaki Lighthouse

Sadamisaki Lighthouse is situated at the tip of the main peninsula in Ikata, overlooking the stunning Hoyo Strait.

From this point, with favorable weather conditions, visitors can gaze out across the strait to the island of Kyushu.

One of the additional attractions in this area is the network of hiking trails that extends nearly two kilometers from the lighthouse, making it a great starting point for exploration on foot.

If you wish to extend your stay, a campsite is also available in the vicinity.

2. Try the Seafood

Given Ikata’s coastal location, seafood prominently features on the menus of many local restaurants.

While there are numerous excellent establishments to sample freshly caught seafood, one of the most recognized is Marina-tei, operated by a celebrity chef renowned for his appearance on the TV program Iron Chef.

This restaurant, located in the Misaki neighborhood of Ikata, is accompanied by several other high-quality dining options specializing in seafood.

3. Visit Seto Wind Hill Park

Situated in the Seto area of Ikata, Seto Wind Hill Park is atop one of the region’s numerous mountains.

Upon reaching the summit, visitors can admire the beautiful windmills and take in the expansive views of the Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

This location also hosts the Ikata Windmill Festival and features dedicated poems celebrating the windmills.

4. Take a Ferry Ride

If you are contemplating a journey to Shikoku and have not yet determined the logistics, consider taking a ferry from the adjacent Kyushu Island.

Ferries operate between Beppu, Oita, and Saganoseki to Ikata, terminating at Misaki Port.

A ferry ride not only highlights the mesmerizing scenery found in this region of Japan but also offers a serene mode of transportation between the islands.

5. Stroll Around Old Ikata

True to its name, Old Ikata represents the traditional facet of the town, making it an excellent location for leisurely walks and sightseeing.

Here, visitors can discover a number of vintage eateries, including the delightful Maruma Diner, which serves as an ideal spot for lunch while sightseeing.

Old Ikata is also home to a variety of coffee shops, with Melody Cafe being a notable establishment where guests can unwind with a cup of locally brewed coffee.

6. Try the Juice

Ikata and the broader Shikoku region boast an array of fruits and vegetables, and if you seek refreshments on a warm day, sampling the local juice is highly recommended.

One of the most popular beverages is mikan juice, which resembles mandarin juice and provides a delightful sweet and sour flavor.

Visitors can explore a variety of local products and freshly pressed juices at Seto Agricultural Park.

7. Tour the Ikata Visitor’s Center

Though the Ikata Visitor’s Center may not initially sound appealing, it features a science museum that educates visitors on the functionality of nuclear power.

Many exhibits are interactive, making it a suitable venue for families, with an aquarium located nearby as an added attraction.

This center is also a great place to procure souvenirs from Ikata and offers local produce, typical of this agricultural area in Japan.

8. Walk Around Red Wing Park

Red Wing Park can be found on Adventure Hill, featuring numerous attractions for visitors.

The park offers various rides suitable for both older and younger children, ensuring a fun-filled day out.

This location serves as a wonderful escape from the urban environment and is particularly well-suited for families looking for outdoor activities during warmer months.

9. Go for a Drive

Driving is one of the finest ways to navigate Ikata, with rental cars readily available to soak in the magnificent coastal views.

Among the most scenic routes in this area is the drive along the Futami and Nagahama coastline, offering stunning vistas of crashing waves and tranquil seas throughout the year.

Another popular driving route includes the mountain freeway, known as the Matsuyama Expressway, which provides magnificent mountain scenery while connecting you past Ozu.

Car rental services are easy to access in Ikata, and local buses also provide an alternative means of transportation.

10. Try the Ice Cream

Renowned for its delightful gelato, Ikata boasts establishments such as DanDan, which is often cited as serving some of the finest ice cream in the region.

Visitors can purchase a variety of local produce and fruits from many ice cream shops, showcasing unique flavors made with local ingredients like sweet potatoes.

DanDan is conveniently located near Seto Agricultural Park, making it easy to visit both places in one trip.

11. Soak in Kamegaike Onsen

Kamegaike Onsen is among the most celebrated hot springs in Ikata, established in 2007 to provide visitors with a modern relaxation environment.

In addition to the hot springs, a nearby park offers a pleasant setting for evening strolls.

This site is additionally home to Kamegaike Pond, famed for its resident giant crab.

12. Stay in a Ryokan

If you are considering accommodation in Ikata, you will find favorable options.

This region of Japan is celebrated for its exquisite traditional inns, known as ryokan.

These establishments typically offer authentic rooms with mats on the floor, providing visitors a genuine insight into the historical Japanese lifestyle.

Thus, for those wishing to experience a night in a ryokan as part of their trip to Japan, Ikata is a viable destination.

13. Take a Trip to Matsuyama

For a day trip outside of Ikata, consider visiting Matsuyama, whose name translates to ‘Pine Mountain’. This town is the capital of the broader Ehime Prefecture, although it remains relatively small, with a population of around 500,000 residents.

This quality imparts a pleasant atmosphere to Matsuyama; it possesses enough attractions to intrigue visitors while maintaining a relaxed and accessible feel that many travelers appreciate.

14. Have a Meal to Remember

Despite its modest size, Ikata offers a variety of interesting dining options, many of which provide incredible views of the surrounding landscapes.

The Windmill Restaurant, perched on a hill adjacent to Seto Agricultural Park, is among the most celebrated, alongside venues like Hot Road, situated near the Oku Observatory on another hill.

Dining in Ikata often ensures stunning views to accompany the exceptional seafood this region is known for.

15. Go for a Drink

While Ikata may not be widely recognized for its nightlife, those seeking evening activities might consider visiting one of the izakaya establishments in the heart of town.

These eateries serve a variety of flavorful local dishes such as yakitori, grilled meat skewers, alongside other delicious seafood options meticulously prepared to retain maximum flavor.

Well-regarded places for drinks and snacks in Ikata include Yakitori Ichiban, Hibari, and Sakae.