Takamatsu, Japan: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Takamatsu is home to Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan’s most exquisite landscape gardens, which took over 100 years to complete and features 6 ponds and 13 artificial hills? Often called the “Gateway to Shikoku,” this charming port city offers a perfect blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and culinary delights that remain surprisingly uncrowded compared to Japan’s more famous destinations.

Getting to Takamatsu

Takamatsu serves as a major transportation hub for Shikoku Island, making it easily accessible from various parts of Japan. Whether you’re coming from Tokyo, Osaka, or other major cities, there are several convenient ways to reach this coastal gem.

By Air

Takamatsu Airport (TAK) offers domestic flights from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (approximately 1 hour 20 minutes) and Narita Airport, as well as from Okinawa and other major Japanese cities. From the airport, you can take a limousine bus to Takamatsu Station, which takes about 40 minutes.

By Train

The JR Seto-Ohashi Line connects Takamatsu with Okayama on Honshu Island. From Okayama, you can access the Shinkansen (bullet train) network to reach major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. The journey from Okayama to Takamatsu takes approximately 1 hour.

By Ferry

Ferries connect Takamatsu with various destinations, including Naoshima and other art islands in the Seto Inland Sea. There are also ferry services from Kobe and Osaka to Takamatsu, offering a scenic alternative to train travel.

Best Time to Visit Takamatsu

Takamatsu enjoys a relatively mild climate throughout the year, making it a pleasant destination in any season. However, certain times offer unique experiences that might align better with your travel preferences.

Spring brings cherry blossoms to Takamatsu’s parks and gardens

Spring (March to May)

Spring is arguably the most beautiful time to visit Takamatsu. Cherry blossoms typically bloom in late March to early April, transforming Ritsurin Garden and other parks into pink wonderlands. The comfortable temperatures (averaging 15-20°C/59-68°F) and low rainfall make it ideal for sightseeing.

Summer (June to August)

Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F). This is a great time to explore the islands of the Seto Inland Sea or attend the Sanuki Takamatsu Festival in August, one of Shikoku’s largest summer festivals featuring impressive fireworks displays over the harbor.

Autumn (September to November)

Fall brings comfortable temperatures and stunning foliage. Ritsurin Garden is particularly magnificent in November when the maple trees turn vibrant shades of red and orange. The garden also hosts special evening illuminations during this season, creating a magical atmosphere.

Winter (December to February)

Winters are mild compared to much of Japan, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. While some attractions may have reduced hours, the benefit is fewer tourists. This is also an excellent time to enjoy hot Sanuki udon noodles, a local specialty that’s especially comforting in cooler weather.

Getting Around Takamatsu

Takamatsu is a relatively compact city with an efficient public transportation system, making it easy to navigate even for first-time visitors. Here are the best ways to get around:

Public Transportation

The Kotoden Railway (Takamatsu-Kotohira Electric Railroad) is a convenient way to reach many attractions. The network consists of three lines: Kotohira Line, Nagao Line, and Shido Line. One-day passes are available for unlimited rides.

City buses operated by Kotoden Bus and JR Shikoku Bus cover routes throughout Takamatsu. The Kotoden Bus Information Center at Takamatsu Station provides maps and schedules in English.

Rental Cars

If you plan to explore the countryside or visit multiple destinations across Shikoku, renting a car offers the most flexibility. Several rental agencies have offices near Takamatsu Station and at the airport.

Bicycles

Takamatsu is relatively flat, making cycling a pleasant option for exploring the city. Bicycle rental services are available at Takamatsu Station and other locations throughout the city. The Takamatsu City Bicycle Rental service offers bikes for 200 yen per day with a 1,000 yen deposit.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available at Takamatsu Station, major hotels, and tourist attractions. They’re a convenient option for shorter trips or when carrying luggage. Most drivers don’t speak English, so it’s helpful to have your destination written in Japanese.

Where to Stay in Takamatsu

Takamatsu offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are the best areas to stay and some recommended properties:

JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu offers convenient access to transportation and stunning city views

Near Takamatsu Station

Staying near the station provides excellent access to transportation and is ideal for travelers planning day trips to other parts of Shikoku or the art islands.

City Center

Takamatsu’s downtown area puts you within walking distance of shopping streets, restaurants, and attractions like Takamatsu Castle Park.

Near Ritsurin Garden

Staying near Ritsurin Garden allows for early morning visits to this beautiful attraction before the crowds arrive.

Top Attractions in Takamatsu Japan: Best Things to Do

Takamatsu offers a perfect blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Here are the must-visit attractions that should be on every traveler’s itinerary:

1. Ritsurin Garden

Ritsurin Garden is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens

Ritsurin Garden is the crown jewel of Takamatsu and one of Japan’s most exquisite landscape gardens. Constructed by feudal lords over a period of 100 years and completed in the early Edo period, this sprawling garden spans 75 hectares and features six ponds and thirteen artificial hills.

The garden is designed as a walking garden, offering different scenic views with each step. Highlights include the Kikugetsu-tei teahouse, where you can enjoy traditional green tea and Japanese sweets while overlooking the central pond, and the meticulously pruned pine trees, some of which are over 300 years old.

2. Takamatsu Castle (Tamamo Park)

Takamatsu Castle is one of Japan’s rare “water castles” with a moat connected to the sea

Takamatsu Castle, also known as Tamamo Castle, is one of Japan’s few “water castles” with a moat connected directly to the sea. Built in 1590, the castle was home to the Matsudaira clan for 11 generations. While the main tower was dismantled in 1884, several important structures remain, including the Mizutegomon Gate and three turrets that have been designated as Important Cultural Properties.

The castle grounds now form Tamamo Park, a pleasant space for strolling with beautiful views of the Seto Inland Sea. The seawater moat is home to numerous fish, and visitors can purchase food to feed them. The Hiunkaku building houses historical exhibits about the castle and the feudal period.

3. Mt. Yashima

Mt. Yashima offers spectacular panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea

Mt. Yashima is a flat-topped mountain extending into the Seto Inland Sea, offering some of the most spectacular views in the region. This historic site was the battlefield for the famous Genpei War in 1185 and is now part of the Setonaikai National Park.

The mountain plateau is home to Yashima Temple, an important stop on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, as well as the Yashima Folklore Museum and an aquarium. The observatory at the mountain’s edge provides panoramic views of Takamatsu city and the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, earning it a place among Japan’s “Top 100 Sunset Views.”

4. Shikoku Mura (Shikoku Village)

Shikoku Mura preserves traditional buildings from across Shikoku Island

Shikoku Mura is an open-air architectural museum showcasing traditional buildings from the Edo to Taisho periods (17th to early 20th centuries). Located at the base of Mt. Yashima, this living museum features over 20 meticulously preserved structures that have been relocated from various parts of Shikoku Island.

Highlights include a thatched-roof farmhouse, a kabuki stage, a vine suspension bridge, and various workshops where traditional crafts were practiced. The museum provides insight into rural life in pre-modern Japan and the unique architectural styles of the region. The adjacent Shikoku Mura Gallery, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, houses contemporary art exhibitions.

5. Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum

The Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum preserves the artist’s studio and sculptures

The Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum preserves the studio and workspace of the renowned Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi. Located in the Mure area of Takamatsu, the museum offers a unique glimpse into the artist’s creative process and his connection to the stone-working traditions of the region.

The museum complex includes Noguchi’s former studio, a stone garden featuring his completed and in-progress sculptures, and his modest living quarters. The peaceful setting allows visitors to appreciate Noguchi’s artistic vision and his unique approach to working with stone. Many of the sculptures remain exactly as Noguchi left them when he passed away in 1988.

Island Hopping in the Seto Inland Sea

One of the highlights of visiting Takamatsu is the opportunity to explore the picturesque islands of the Seto Inland Sea. These islands offer a blend of art, nature, and traditional Japanese culture.

Regular ferries connect Takamatsu with the art islands of the Seto Inland Sea

Naoshima

Naoshima has transformed from a sleepy fishing island to a world-renowned art destination. The island is home to several museums designed by architect Tadao Ando, including the Chichu Art Museum, which houses works by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria in a stunning underground facility.

Other highlights include the Benesse House Museum, outdoor art installations scattered throughout the island, and the Art House Project, which converts traditional houses into art spaces. Don’t miss Yayoi Kusama’s iconic yellow pumpkin sculpture at the Miyanoura Port.

Megijima

Megijima is a small island known for its caves, which according to legend, were once home to ogres (oni) from the famous Japanese folktale “Momotaro.” The island is also part of the Setouchi Triennale art festival, featuring various art installations and projects.

The island’s highest point offers panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, and its beaches are popular for swimming during summer. With a small population of around 200 people, Megijima provides a glimpse into traditional island life in Japan.

Ogijima

Ogijima is characterized by its steep, narrow streets lined with traditional houses that climb up the hillside from the port. The island has become a hub for art installations as part of the Setouchi Triennale, with many works integrated into the village landscape.

The island’s lighthouse offers spectacular views, and the small community has experienced a revitalization through art projects and new residents drawn to its creative atmosphere. Ogijima’s compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot.

Food Experiences in Takamatsu

Takamatsu is a food lover’s paradise, particularly famous for its Sanuki udon noodles. The city offers numerous culinary experiences that showcase the region’s fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Sanuki udon, characterized by its firm, chewy texture, is Takamatsu’s most famous culinary specialty

Sanuki Udon

Kagawa Prefecture, where Takamatsu is located, is often called “Udon Prefecture” due to its famous Sanuki udon noodles. These thick, square-cut noodles are known for their firm, chewy texture and are typically served either hot in a light dashi broth (kakeudon) or cold with a dipping sauce (zaru udon).

There are approximately 700 udon restaurants in Kagawa Prefecture, ranging from traditional establishments to modern chains. Many locals start their day with a bowl of udon for breakfast, demonstrating the noodle’s importance in the local food culture.

Top Udon Restaurants in Takamatsu

Udon Making Experience

For a hands-on culinary adventure, consider taking an udon making class. Several facilities in Takamatsu offer workshops where you can learn the traditional techniques of kneading, rolling, and cutting Sanuki udon.

Other Local Specialties

While udon dominates the local food scene, Takamatsu offers other culinary delights worth trying:

Shopping in Takamatsu

From traditional crafts to modern shopping malls, Takamatsu offers diverse shopping experiences for visitors. Here are the best places to shop during your stay:

The covered Marugame-machi Shopping Street has been a commercial hub for over 400 years

Traditional Shopping Areas

Modern Shopping Centers

Souvenirs from Takamatsu

Looking for the perfect memento of your trip to Takamatsu? Here are some recommended local souvenirs:

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Takamatsu hosts various events and festivals throughout the year that showcase the region’s culture and traditions. Here are some highlights to consider when planning your visit:

The Sanuki Takamatsu Festival features one of Shikoku’s largest fireworks displays

Sanuki Takamatsu Festival (August)

One of Shikoku’s four major festivals, the Sanuki Takamatsu Festival is held annually from August 12th to 14th. The three-day celebration features a spectacular fireworks display over the sea, traditional dance performances, and the Sanuki Udon Eating Championship. The festival attracts visitors from across Japan and culminates in a group dance where participating teams showcase unique performances.

Ritsurin Garden Autumn Illumination (November)

During the peak autumn foliage season, Ritsurin Garden hosts special evening illuminations that transform the garden into a magical nightscape. The carefully placed lights highlight the vibrant red and orange maple leaves, creating stunning reflections in the garden’s ponds. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Japanese music performances and tea ceremonies during this special event.

Shikoku Pilgrimage Season (Spring and Autumn)

The Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage is a 1,200-kilometer circular route that passes through 88 Buddhist temples across Shikoku Island. While the pilgrimage can be undertaken at any time, spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) are particularly popular due to the pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Takamatsu serves as a starting point for many pilgrims, and you’ll likely encounter them in their distinctive white clothing and conical hats.

Setouchi Triennale Art Festival

Held every three years across the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, this international art festival transforms the region into a massive open-air gallery. The festival typically runs during three seasons (spring, summer, and fall) and features works by artists from Japan and around the world. Takamatsu serves as a gateway to the festival, with ferries departing from its port to the various participating islands.

Day Trips from Takamatsu

Takamatsu’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other parts of Shikoku and the Seto Inland Sea. Here are some recommended day trips:

Marugame Castle features some of Japan’s highest castle walls

Marugame

Located about 30 minutes west of Takamatsu by train, Marugame is home to one of Japan’s 12 original castles. Marugame Castle sits atop a hill and features impressive stone walls that are among the highest in Japan. The city is also famous for its udon noodles, with many claiming that the best Sanuki udon can be found here rather than in Takamatsu itself.

Kotohira

The small town of Kotohira is famous for Kotohira-gu (also known as Kompira-san), a Shinto shrine dedicated to seafaring. Reaching the main shrine requires climbing 785 stone steps, but the panoramic views and historical architecture make the effort worthwhile. The town also features traditional inns, shops selling pilgrim souvenirs, and Kanamaruza, Japan’s oldest surviving kabuki theater.

Iya Valley

For nature lovers, the remote Iya Valley in Tokushima Prefecture offers breathtaking mountain scenery, traditional vine bridges, and hot springs. The area is known for its rugged beauty and traditional thatched-roof houses. Don’t miss the Peeing Boy statue, perched precariously on a cliff edge with stunning valley views.

Kurashiki

Located in neighboring Okayama Prefecture, Kurashiki’s Bikan Historical Quarter features beautifully preserved merchant houses from the Edo period lining a picturesque canal. The area is home to several museums, including the Ohara Museum of Art, Japan’s first Western art museum. The city offers a glimpse into Japan’s past with its white-walled storehouses and willow-lined waterways.

Practical Tips for Visiting Takamatsu

To help you make the most of your trip to Takamatsu, here are some practical tips and information:

Language

While English signage is available at major tourist attractions and transportation hubs, English speakers are less common in Takamatsu than in larger Japanese cities. Consider downloading a translation app like Google Translate, which can help with menu translation and basic communication. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases will also be appreciated by locals.

Currency and Payment

The Japanese yen (¥) is the local currency. While credit cards are increasingly accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and department stores, many smaller establishments, including some udon restaurants, still operate on a cash-only basis. ATMs that accept foreign cards can be found at 7-Eleven convenience stores, post offices, and international airports.

Internet and Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is available at Takamatsu Station, major tourist attractions, and many hotels and cafes. For continuous connectivity, consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi device or purchasing a Japanese SIM card upon arrival in Japan.

Transportation Passes

If you plan to use public transportation frequently, consider these money-saving passes:

Weather and What to Pack

Takamatsu has a mild climate compared to many parts of Japan, but it’s still important to pack appropriately for the season:

Local Etiquette

Observing local customs will enhance your experience and show respect for Japanese culture:

Ready to Explore Takamatsu?

Takamatsu offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture, natural beauty, and culinary delights without the crowds of more famous destinations. From the meticulously crafted landscapes of Ritsurin Garden to the chewy perfection of Sanuki udon noodles, this charming port city provides authentic experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

As the gateway to Shikoku and the art islands of the Seto Inland Sea, Takamatsu serves as an ideal base for exploring this less-traveled region of Japan. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, an art aficionado, or simply seeking a more relaxed pace of Japanese travel, Takamatsu welcomes you with open arms and countless discoveries.