Things To Do
in Sanuki
Sanuki is a coastal city in Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku Island, where land meets the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea. It’s renowned for Sanuki udon, a chewy noodle variety that defines local dining and culinary pride. The countryside around Sanuki is dotted with farms, temples, and scenic viewpoints that reveal a slower, authentic rural Japan.
Easy access to Takamatsu and Shodoshima makes it a convenient base for exploring western Shikoku’s culture, nature, and coastline.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens. Stroll along the serene paths, admire the manicured trees and koi ponds, and take in the views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a nearby café that offers local specialties.
After lunch, head to Takamatsu Castle, where you can explore the historic ruins and the landscape surrounding the castle. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, soaking in the views of the Seto Inland Sea. Stop at one of the local shops to pick up some Sanuki udon noodles, a famous local delicacy.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, sampling a variety of small plates and perhaps a glass of sake. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Takamatsu's nightlife as you wander through the streets filled with restaurants and bars. End your day with a quiet walk along the waterfront, watching the boats glide by under the moonlight.
Visit the Nakamura House for a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and lifestyle. Wander through the beautifully preserved rooms and gardens, allowing the calm ambiance to enchant your senses. This morning is a great opportunity to take some picturesque photos of the house and its surroundings.
Spend your afternoon at the Setouchi Art Museum, showcasing contemporary artworks that reflect the identity of the Setouchi region. Participate in an art workshop that promotes local craftsmanship and creativity. Delight in a light lunch at the museum café, featuring fresh ingredients from the local area.
In the evening, return to Takamatsu city center and dine at a restaurant known for its udon noodles. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you share stories over delicious food. Wrap up your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🍽️Mid-range dinner for two | $30-60 |
| 🚆Local transit ticket | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entry | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich udon culture and food scene
- Stunning coastlines and nature
- Safe and tourist-friendly
- Easy access to other Shikoku attractions
- Limited nightlife in smaller towns
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
- Some rural areas have fewer English resources
- Seasonal typhoon risk in summer
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please / I would like to...
- "Kore wa ikura desu ka?" - How much is this?
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Wakarimasen" - I don’t understand
- "Hoteru wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the hotel?
Places to Visit in Sanuki
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic stone stairway rising beside a hillside shrine; dramatic perspective for sunrise or sunset photography.
Scenic lookout points along the Sanuki coast offering sea, islands, and sunset silhouettes.
A classic Japanese landscape garden with ponds, bridges, and seasonal color; ideal for tranquil, structured shots.
Rows of olive trees against the blue sea with hilltop vantage points perfect for golden-hour photography.
Food in Sanuki
Sanuki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chewy, thick noodles served hot in a clear dashi stock, often enjoyed with tempura or scallions. The texture and broth showcase the region’s noodle heritage.
Must-Try!
Udon topped with crisp kakiage or shrimp tempura, offering a satisfying contrast of textures.
Fried horse mackerel, a popular accompaniment in coastal eateries and a great match for udon at casual spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning markets along the coast and in towns offer fresh fish, vegetables, and quick street snacks to grab on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bow lightly; in formal settings, exchange business cards with both hands and a brief bow.
Remove shoes when entering homes, certain temples, traditional inns, and some shops; use provided slippers.
Speak softly at sacred sites; follow local rules for coin offerings and do not touch sacred objects unless allowed.
Keep areas clean; queue politely at trains, buses, and ticket counters.
Safety
Tipping in Sanuki
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as standard. A thank-you or small sense of appreciation is enough.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in towns near Takamatsu and in larger shops. IC cards and mobile payments are increasingly supported in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with cherry blossoms and fresh greenery; great for outdoor walks, udon stalls, and temple visits.
Hot and humid with a chance of typhoons; plan outdoor activities for early mornings and enjoy cooler evenings by the sea.
Comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for hiking, coastal drives, and photography.
Cool but generally mild compared to other parts of Japan; fewer crowds and occasional rain; bring a light jacket.
Sanuki at Night
Hiking in Sanuki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal route with sea views, rock formations, and island silhouettes—great for a half-day hike.
Gentle to moderate forest trail offering birds, shade, and countryside panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Sanuki by plane.
Main gateway to Shikoku; domestic flights with some international connections; easy rail or bus access to Sanuki.
Regional hub with domestic connections; reachable by train or bus for travel to Shikoku.
Major international hub near Osaka; convenient for international travelers with connections to Shikoku via domestic flights or ferries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in suburban Sanuki, with a strong sense of community in schools and local festivals.
Agricultural and fishing industries shape daily life and contribute to udon and seafood production.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely followed school and club sport in the region; many parks host local games.
Local clubs and university teams provide weekend matches and community games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sanuki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Japan, many broths use dashi. Look for kombu-based options or ask for rice, tofu, or vegetable dishes; call ahead when possible to ensure availability.