We flew from Brisbane to Kansai then took a train to Kurashiki. On to Matsuyama for parkrun then to Uchiko with its Historic Preservation Zone and the old mountain village of Ishidatami. And to Kochi.

The highlight of our trip was the remote Iya Valley on Shikoku. We were able to explore and enjoy the boat ride through the Oboke Gorge, walk across Japan’s 3 remaining vine bridges and visit the Scarecrow Village of Nagoro.