四国カルスト

Shikoku Karst is one of Japan’s three great karst landscapes, along with Akiyoshidai (Yamaguchi) and Hiraodai (Fukuoka). “”Karst”” refers to terrain where limestone appears to protrude from the ground in rugged lumps. Shikoku Karst is a highland area at roughly 1,000–1,500 meters in elevation, and its main sights are concentrated along the approximately 25 km “”Shikoku Karst Park Traverse Road”” (Prefectural Route 383). At “”Mezurudaira,”” considered the center of the karst, you can see cattle grazing and wind turbines for power generation; at the lodging facility “”Mezuruso,”” the rich soft-serve ice cream is a must-try. Heading a bit east brings you to limestone formations called “”karrenfeld”” that resemble sheep and to “”Godan Plateau,”” where cattle are frequently seen. Around “”Tengu Plateau”” on the eastern edge, you can hike while enjoying alpine plants. On the western edge, “”Onogahara”” has attractions such as a pony ranch where you can interact with animals. Shikoku Karst is ideal for a sunny-day drive, but gas stations are limited, so it’s recommended to set out with a full tank. Also note that the road is closed in winter.