Things To Do
in Takamatsu
Located on the northern coast of Shikoku, Takamatsu blends seaside charm with a vibrant cultural scene. Famous for Ritsurin Garden, it offers tranquil traditional landscapes alongside a lively waterfront. As the gateway to the Seto Inland Sea islands, the city makes it easy to day-trip to Naoshima, Shodoshima, and more.
Visitors enjoy Sanuki udon, walkable streets, and a friendly, compact-town atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Ritsurin Garden, a landscape masterpiece featuring traditional Japanese aesthetics. As you stroll along the serene paths, enjoy the view of meticulously arranged pine trees and koi-filled ponds. Take your time to appreciate the seasonal flowers and the tranquil atmosphere that envelops the garden.
After a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, head back to explore more of Ritsurin Garden or visit the nearby Takamatsu City Museum of Art. The museum showcases contemporary art alongside traditional Japanese works, offering a contrast to your morning nature experience. Spend some time reflecting on the art pieces and enjoying the museum's peaceful setting.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Takamatsu Bay area to enjoy a delightful dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Savor local specialties such as Sanuki udon or fresh seafood while taking in the beautiful views of the bay. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the promenade, soaking in the evening ambiance.
Begin your day by exploring the historic Takamatsu Castle, one of Japan's few remaining coastal castles. Walk through the castle grounds and admire the impressive stone walls, moats, and the reconstructed main keep. Enjoy the views of the surrounding area, which is especially beautiful in the morning light.
After touring the castle, head to the adjacent Tamamo Park for a picnic lunch among the cherry blossoms, if in season. Utilize this time to relax and take in the peaceful environment, perhaps reading a book or sketching the scenery. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium to learn about local sports and activities.
In the evening, dine at a local izakaya where you can try various small dishes and sample local sake. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and engage with locals to learn more about their culture. If you're up for it, end the night with karaoke, a favorite pastime in Japan.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🚆Single-ride public transport fare | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction ticket | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culinary scene with Sanuki udon
- Excellent gateway to Naoshima, Shodoshima, and the Inland Sea islands
- Beautiful traditional gardens and harbor views
- Compact, walkable city with a friendly vibe
- Limited late-night options outside the core nightlife areas
- Some language barriers for non-Japanese travelers in smaller shops
- Rail services may be less frequent than major cities
- Summer humidity can be intense; plan for heat relief
- "こんにちは" - Hello / Good day
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you very much
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "〜はどこですか？" - Where is ~?
- "vegetarian" - I am vegetarian.
Places to Visit in Takamatsu
Visit one of these nice places.
A quintessential Japanese landscape garden with ponds, pines, and teahouses; ideal in the early morning for soft light.
Waterfront park with views of the Seto Inland Sea and preserved ruins; great for sunset silhouettes.
Modern harbor promenade offering reflective water scenes and architectural contrasts, especially at dusk.
Hilltop vantage point that delivers sweeping city and sea panoramas; perfect for wide-angle shots.
Food in Takamatsu
Takamatsu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick, springy noodles served hot in a savory soy-based broth or cold with a dipping sauce; a must-try at any udon shop around Takamatsu.
Must-Try!
Udon topped with sweet fried tofu (abura-age); a classic Sanuki variation found in most noodle shops.
Simmered yellowtail with daikon in a light soy-based broth; a comforting seaside staple often served in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market by the water offering fresh seafood, dashi stock, snacks, and quick bites to sample on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional spaces; use provided slippers and handle items politely.
Speak softly in public transport and queues; queue orderly and bow as a sign of respect.
Eating while walking is common in some areas, but avoid loud eating and slurping in more formal settings; wait for everyone to be served before starting.
Safety
Tipping in Takamatsu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite appreciation with a smile and thank-you is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and casual eateries; major credit cards are common in hotels and larger shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild and fresh; cherry blossoms and festival moods—great for outdoor strolls and garden photography.
Hot and humid with a chance of typhoons; plan early morning or evening activities, stay hydrated, and enjoy beachside and harbor breezes.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; ideal for outdoor hikes, island day trips, and vivid fall colors around gardens.
Cool but usually mild; rainfall is possible but days are often sunny and pleasant for city exploration.
Takamatsu at Night
Hiking in Takamatsu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hillside trails to a shrine with panoramic views of Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea.
Coastal and hillside trails on Shodoshima, known for olive groves and ocean views; reachable by ferry from Takamatsu.
Airports
How to reach Takamatsu by plane.
Domestic and select international flights; quick access to the city by bus or taxi.
Broader domestic network; about 1.5–2 hours by train from Takamatsu with transfers.
Major international hub; many travelers fly here first and transfer to Takamatsu by rail or air.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Aging population with a strong community feel; many family-run businesses in the center.
Several universities and colleges bring a youthful presence to cafe and library scenes.
Growing number of travelers drawn to Naoshima and Shodoshima; English signage is common in tourist areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely loved sport with local school and community games; high school tournaments draw crowds.
Popular at local clubs and schools; matches are common in city stadiums and parks.
A prominent activity given proximity to the Shimanami Kaido and scenic coastlines; cycling events and routes are popular.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Takamatsu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many udon shops offer veggie options and tofu toppings; ask for a broth without fish stock (dashi) if needed.