Takamatsu
2 tours available
Why Visit Takamatsu
Takamatsu is the gateway to Shikoku and one of Japan's most underrated cities. Its crown jewel is Ritsurin Garden, widely considered one of the finest strolling gardens in the country — six ponds, thirteen landscaped hills, and centuries-old pine trees set against the forested Mount Shiun backdrop.
As the capital of Kagawa Prefecture, Takamatsu is the undisputed heartland of Sanuki udon. The city is also the main port for ferries to the art islands of the Seto Inland Sea, including Naoshima, Teshima, and Shodoshima. With excellent train connections to Kotohira and Tokushima, Takamatsu makes an ideal base for exploring northern Shikoku.
Key Areas
Ritsurin Garden
Michelin 3-star garden spanning 75 hectares — one of Japan's finest landscapes
Sunport Area
Waterfront with the ferry terminal, art installations, and Seto Inland Sea views
Marugame-machi
Central shopping arcade and udon pilgrimage starting point
Yashima
Flat-topped mesa with panoramic sea views and an open-air folk museum
Kitahama Alley
Converted warehouse district with boutiques, cafés, and galleries
Naoshima Ferry
Direct ferry access to the world-famous art islands of the Seto Inland Sea
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March – April) — Cherry blossoms transform Ritsurin Garden and Yashima. The Setouchi Triennale art festival (held every three years) often includes spring sessions.
Autumn (October – November) — Ideal weather for island hopping and cycling. Ritsurin Garden's autumn illumination is a highlight.
Year-round — The mild Seto Inland Sea climate makes Takamatsu comfortable in any season. Udon shops are busiest at lunch — visit before 11 AM to skip the queues.
Insider Tips
- Visit Ritsurin Garden at dawn when it opens — the early-morning light on the ponds is stunning and you'll have the paths nearly to yourself.
- Follow the locals and do an udon crawl — portions are small and cheap, so visiting two or three shops in one morning is standard practice.
- Book Naoshima ferry tickets early on weekends and holidays — the art islands draw large crowds, especially during the Triennale.
- Ride the JR to Yashima in the late afternoon for sunset views over the Seto Inland Sea and its scatter of small islands.
Tours Visiting Takamatsu
Artful Setouchi & Japan's Timeless Hot Springs
Setouchi Island Hopping
Discover Setouchi's art islands, Himeji Castle, and onsen towns. 12-day self-guided tour with ryokan stays and scenic trains.
Setouchi Shores & Shikoku Heartlands
Setouchi Island Hopping
Island-hop through Setouchi's famous art islands, explore hidden gems like Tomonoura and Onomichi,and unwind in hot spring ryokans.15-day self-guided tour.
Recommended Reading
Related Destinations
Region
Shikoku
Location
Available Tours
2 tours