Masaji Sota first cultivated Shodoshima’s herb fields shortly after the war, as the pioneer of natural fragrance research in Japan. This research institute was established in 1992 to mark the centenary of his birth, on the very land he once worked. The grounds include an archive of products and research materials dating back over 30 years, a blending room where herbal tea workshops and fragrance sessions take place, and a botanical garden growing more than 30 varieties of herbs. Find a scent here that will stay with you long after you leave the island.
Soda Fragrance Botanical Garden
887-1 Nishimura Ko, Shodoshima-cho, Shozu-gun, Kagawa 761-4434
Access: 3-minute walk from “Higata” bus stop (Shodoshima Olive Bus)
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Places with Connections
Guide: Nemoto-san, Soda Fragrance Botanical Garden
A Cafe in a Windmill Hut, Spun by Family
Before I started helping at the research institute, I ran a cafe called “Cupid & Cotton” on a hilltop about five minutes away by car. The landmark is a windmill my Dutch husband and I built ourselves. Our son has taken over now, serving Dutch pastries, cakes with herbs from the garden, quiche and stewed dishes made with local island ingredients. You will always leave with both your heart and your stomach full.
Cupid & Cotton
1765-7 Nishimura Otsu, Shodoshima-cho, Shozu-gun, Kagawa 761-4434
Access: 15-minute walk from “Olive Koen-guchi” bus stop (Shodoshima Olive Bus)
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