14 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Takamatsu | Jan 2025
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.title}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.description | description_string_length}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.reviews.combinedAverageRating.toFixed(2)}} ({{best_tourist_attraction_info.reviews.totalReviews}} reviews)
From {{best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPrice.toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPriceBeforeDiscount.toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
Save {{(best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPriceBeforeDiscount - best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPrice).toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
What activities can I do in Takamatsu?
1. Visit Ritsurin Garden: Explore one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens, featuring ponds, bridges, teahouses, and meticulously manicured trees and shrubs. 2. Take a stroll along the Shikoku Mura Village: This open-air museum showcases traditional architecture and cultural artifacts from the Shikoku region, providing a glimpse into Japan's rural past. 3. Explore Takamatsu Castle: Discover the history of the city at this reconstructed castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from its main keep. 4. Visit the Shikoku Mura Folklore Museum: Learn about the traditional crafts, customs, and lifestyle of the Shikoku region through exhibits and demonstrations. 5. Take a boat tour to Naoshima Island: Just a short ferry ride away, Naoshima is known for its contemporary art installations and museums, including the famous Benesse House Museum. 6. Enjoy a relaxing soak in the Tamamo Onsen: This hot spring complex offers various baths and relaxation facilities, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate. 7. Explore the Yashima Plateau: Take a cable car up to this scenic plateau, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, visit the Yashima-ji Temple, and hike along nature trails. 8. Try Sanuki Udon: Takamatsu is famous for its delicious udon noodles. Visit one of the local udon shops to savor this regional specialty. 9. Attend the Setouchi Triennale: If you visit during this art festival, you can explore various art installations and exhibitions on different islands in the Seto Inland Sea, including Takamatsu. 10. Shop at the Kagawa Marugame-machi Shopping Street: This bustling shopping street offers a wide range of shops, boutiques, and local eateries, allowing you to indulge in some retail therapy and taste local delicacies.
When is the best time to travel to Takamatsu?
The best time to travel to Takamatsu, Japan is during the spring or autumn seasons. In spring, from March to May, the weather is mild and pleasant with cherry blossoms in full bloom, creating a picturesque atmosphere. This is a popular time for visitors to enjoy the famous cherry blossom viewing spots like Ritsurin Garden and Yashima. Autumn, from September to November, is another great time to visit Takamatsu. The weather is cool and comfortable, and the autumn foliage paints the city in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The gardens and parks, such as the aforementioned Ritsurin Garden and Yashima, offer stunning views of the changing leaves. It's important to note that Takamatsu can be quite hot and humid during the summer months of June to August, and winter from December to February can be cold, especially in January. However, if you don't mind the weather extremes, you can still enjoy the city's attractions and festivals like the Setouchi Triennale art festival in summer or the New Year celebrations in winter. Ultimately, the choice of the best time to travel to Takamatsu depends on your preferences for weather, scenery, and events.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Takamatsu
Takamatsu is a beautiful city located in Kagawa Prefecture on the island of Shikoku in Japan. Known for its historical sites, stunning gardens, and delicious local cuisine, Takamatsu offers a unique cultural experience for travelers. One of the most famous attractions in Takamatsu is the Ritsurin Garden, a designated national treasure. This spacious landscape garden features beautiful ponds, bridges, and meticulously pruned pine trees. Visitors can stroll through the garden and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while taking in the breathtaking views. Another cultural highlight in Takamatsu is the Kagawa Prefectural Museum of Cultural Heritage. This museum showcases the history and culture of Kagawa Prefecture, including its traditional crafts, folk art, and archaeological artifacts. It is a great place to learn about the local heritage and gain a deeper understanding of the region. Takamatsu is also known for its udon noodles, which are a specialty of Kagawa Prefecture. The city is dotted with udon restaurants where you can enjoy a variety of delicious udon dishes, from simple bowls of hot noodles to more elaborate preparations with various toppings. Don't miss the chance to try Sanuki udon, a type of thick and chewy udon that is famous in the region. If you're interested in contemporary art, Takamatsu is home to the Benesse Art Site Naoshima, an art complex located on the nearby island of Naoshima. This unique destination features a collection of modern art installations and museums, including the famous ""Pumpkin"" sculpture by Yayoi Kusama. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts and offers a fascinating blend of art, architecture, and nature. In terms of festivals, Takamatsu hosts the Takamatsu Kagawa Marugame Half Marathon, one of the largest road races in Japan. This event attracts thousands of runners from around the world and creates a vibrant atmosphere in the city. The Takamatsu Kagawa Marugame Half Marathon is held annually in February and is a great opportunity to witness the local passion for sports and community engagement. Overall, Takamatsu offers a rich cultural experience with its historical sites, beautiful gardens, delicious cuisine, and vibrant art scene. Whether you're interested in traditional Japanese culture or contemporary art, this city has something to offer for every traveler.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Takamatsu
When visiting Takamatsu, Japan, there are several unique souvenirs and items that you can consider adding to your shopping list. Here are some popular options: 1. Sanuki Udon: Takamatsu is famous for its Sanuki Udon, a thick and chewy type of udon noodle. Consider buying a pack of dried Sanuki Udon noodles or even a DIY udon-making kit. 2. Ritsurin Garden Souvenirs: Ritsurin Garden is one of the most famous gardens in Japan, and you can find various souvenirs related to the garden, such as postcards, tea sets, and traditional Japanese crafts. 3. Kagawa Prefecture Specialty Foods: Takamatsu is located in Kagawa Prefecture, known as the ""Udon Prefecture."" Look for specialty food items like soy sauce, olive oil, citrus fruits (such as mikan), and local snacks like ""udon senbei"" (crackers made from udon noodles). 4. Shikoku Traditional Crafts: Shikoku, the island where Takamatsu is located, has a rich tradition of craftsmanship. Look for items like ""maki-e"" lacquerware, ""Awa washi"" traditional paper products, or ""Banshu-ori"" textiles. 5. Local Sake and Shochu: Kagawa Prefecture produces its own sake and shochu (a distilled spirit). Consider buying a bottle of locally brewed sake or shochu as a unique gift or souvenir. 6. Seto Inland Sea Pottery: Takamatsu is located near the Seto Inland Sea, which is famous for its pottery. Look for beautiful ceramic items like bowls, plates, tea sets, or decorative pieces. 7. Japanese Green Tea: Takamatsu is known for its high-quality green tea. Consider buying some loose-leaf green tea or tea bags to enjoy the authentic taste of Japanese tea at home. 8. ""Manekineko"" (Lucky Cat) Items: The ""manekineko"" or ""beckoning cat"" is a popular Japanese lucky charm believed to bring good luck and fortune. Look for manekineko keychains, figurines, or other related items as a cute and meaningful souvenir. Remember to check the customs regulations of your home country regarding bringing food and alcohol products before purchasing them as souvenirs.
Takamatsu travel review
Takamatsu: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Japan Nestled on the picturesque shores of the Seto Inland Sea, Takamatsu is a charming city that offers a unique blend of historical landmarks, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant culinary scene. As a hidden gem in Japan, Takamatsu remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, making it the perfect destination for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path travel experience. One of the city's main attractions is the breathtaking Ritsurin Garden, considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. With its meticulously manicured landscapes, tranquil ponds, and traditional tea houses, Ritsurin Garden offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Strolling through the garden's winding paths, one can't help but feel a sense of tranquility and harmony with nature. For history enthusiasts, Takamatsu Castle is a must-visit. Built in the 17th century, this majestic castle stands as a symbol of the city's rich cultural heritage. As you climb to the top of the castle's tower, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding sea, providing a glimpse into Takamatsu's past and present. Another unique aspect of Takamatsu is its connection to the art world. The city is home to the Setouchi Triennale, an international contemporary art festival held every three years on the nearby islands of the Seto Inland Sea. During the festival, art installations are scattered throughout the islands, creating a truly immersive experience that combines art, nature, and local culture. Even outside of the festival period, art enthusiasts can visit the Benesse Art Site Naoshima, an island dedicated to contemporary art and architecture, just a short ferry ride away from Takamatsu. No visit to Takamatsu would be complete without indulging in its renowned udon noodles. Takamatsu is considered the udon capital of Japan, and you'll find countless noodle shops scattered throughout the city. Whether you prefer your udon served hot or cold, with a simple soy-based broth or a rich curry sauce, you're sure to find a bowl that satisfies your taste buds. Don't forget to try the local specialty, Sanuki udon, known for its thick and chewy noodles. Nature lovers will also find plenty to explore in Takamatsu. The nearby Yashima plateau offers breathtaking hiking trails with panoramic views of the city and the sea. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at rock climbing on the cliffs overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. In the evening, head to the lively shopping district of Marugamemachi, where you'll find a mix of traditional shops, trendy boutiques, and delicious street food stalls. Take a stroll down the illuminated streets, browse the unique souvenirs, and sample local delicacies such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled skewered chicken). Takamatsu may not be as well-known as other Japanese cities, but its charm and beauty make it a destination worth exploring. From its historic landmarks to its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant culinary scene, Takamatsu offers a truly authentic and unforgettable travel experience. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of Japan in Takamatsu.