Shikoku Karst — Attraction in Yusuhara

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of 四国カルスト! This natural wonder captivates with its breathtaking limestone formations and lush greenery. Did you know? 四国カルスト is renowned for its unique karst landscape, characterized by its intricate network of caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers. It's also home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare species like the Japanese macaque. Don't miss the chance to explore this mesmerizing destination and witness nature's masterpiece firsthand!

Fun fact: 四国カルスト is not only famous for its unique karst features but also for its traditional cow farming practices, which have been integral to the region's culture for centuries. Immerse yourself in the charm of this picturesque locale, where nature's wonders and cultural heritage intertwine seamlessly.

Must: For an unforgettable experience, don't miss the morning sea of clouds at 四国カルスト! Wake up early and witness the ethereal spectacle as the sun rises, casting a golden hue over the mist-covered landscape. It's a breathtaking sight that will leave you in awe of nature's beauty. Plus, the serene ambiance adds to the magic of the moment. Grab your camera and prepare to capture memories that will last a lifetime at this enchanting...

【日本三大カルストそこにあり】 【Breathtaking Views Above the Clouds — The Shikoku Karst】

とにかく絶景でした。 愛媛と高知の県境に位置する標高約1,400mの尾根沿いに、東西25kmほどにわたって広がる「四国カルスト」。山口県の秋吉台、福岡県の平尾台と並ぶ“日本三大カルスト”のひとつで、その中でも最も標高が高い場所にあります。

カルストとは、石灰岩などが雨や地下水によって浸食されてできた地形のこと。地表に白い石灰岩が点在しており、独特の美しい景観を生み出しています。初めて訪れる方でも、その雄大さと非日常的な風景に圧倒されるはずです。

中央部に位置する「姫鶴平（めづるだいら）」には宿泊施設やキャンプ場があり、私が訪れたときも多くの方がテントを張っていました。大きな風車を背景に、放牧された牛たちがのんびり草を食べている光景はまるで絵画のよう。餌やり体験もできるようで、とても可愛らしい時間を過ごせます（時期限定かもしれません）。

最高地点は標高1,456mの「五段城（ごだんじょう）」。天気の良い日には太平洋まで一望できる絶景スポットです。まさに“天空の草原”という言葉がぴったり。

休日に訪れたため混雑していましたが、駐車場はスムーズに利用できました。ただし、山道の道幅が非常に狭く、すれ違いが怖いほど。軽自動車の方が断然有利です（笑）。

大自然の雄大さを体感できる最高の場所。絶景ドライブを楽しみながら、ぜひ安全運転で訪れてみてください。

Simply put, the view was absolutely stunning. Stretching about 25 kilometers along a ridge at an elevation of around 1,400 meters, the Shikoku Karst lies on the border between Ehime and Kochi Prefectures. It is one of Japan’s three major karst landscapes, along with Akiyoshidai in Yamaguchi and Hiraodai in Fukuoka — and it’s the highest among them.

A karst is a landscape formed when limestone is gradually eroded by rain and groundwater, leaving behind striking white rocks scattered across the surface. This creates a unique and otherworldly scenery that is sure to impress anyone visiting for the first time.

At the center of the area is Mezurudaira, which features lodges and a campground. When I visited, many people were enjoying camping there, surrounded by vast open skies and fresh mountain air. The view of wind turbines turning behind grazing cows was like something out of a painting. Depending on the season, you may even get the chance to feed the cows — a charming and memorable experience.

The highest point of the area is Godanjō, standing 1,456 meters above sea level. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean — a truly spectacular sight that lives up to the nickname “the grassland in the sky.”

Since I went on a weekend, it was a bit crowded, but parking was easy to find. However, be aware that the mountain roads are very narrow — so narrow that passing other cars can be quite nerve-racking. If you have a small car, you’ll definitely have an easier time!

This is one of the best places to feel the power and beauty of Japan’s great outdoors. Enjoy the scenic drive, take your time, and most importantly — drive safely while soaking in this...

Date of Visit: 2023/11/21 Absolutely stunning views here. There were endless views of mountain ranges with very little people around, and we caught a glimpse of Mt. Ishizuchi which was already snow-capped by now. We were initially worried about the drive up as we saw other reviews about narrow roads. My family drove a Toyota Alphard up without any issues, although the road was narrow and mostly 1-laned (i.e. National Road 440 and 303 if you are coming from Matsuyama). Do remember to honk / high-beam when driving round narrow corners to alert incoming drivers. The drive down was much easier (Route 383 into 304) with the lanes being much wider and the presence of...