Yashima Plateau
A flat-topped mountain (292m) rising from the sea like an ancient stage — site of the decisive 1185 Yashima naval battle (Genpei War). The plateau-edge views over the Seto Inland Sea are magnificent and overlooked by tourists.
2–3 hours
No cable car. Yashima Driveway parking fee (e.g. ¥300 per car per visit). Plateau and temple area free or separate facility fees
Yashimaji Temple 7:00–17:00; observation decks open 24 hrs
Year-round
By car via Yashima Driveway to summit parking (then short walk); or about 60 min hike from foot of Yashima. Cable car was discontinued in 2005
Location
Why Visit
- 1
The New Yashima Aquarium (2023) perches on the cliff edge — indoor tanks and outdoor tide pools
- 2
Shikoku-mura open-air museum has traditional buildings relocated from across the island
- 3
The plateau's resident tanuki raccoon dogs appear at dusk near the shrine
Local Tips
The plateau offers views of the Seto Inland Sea and, on clear days, Awaji Island. Come for sunset and stay for the "Yashima no Minoru" sea-of-clouds phenomenon in early morning. The nearby aquarium has whale sharks.
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