Things to do in Kagawa: Kagawa Prefecture is located in the north of Shikoku, which is the smallest of Japan’s four main islands.
Despite being the smallest prefecture in terms of area, Kagawa has a lot to offer.
From cultural tours and mountain hikes to water sports and sporting events, there is something for everyone.
One of the top attractions in Kagawa is the sprawling Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu.
With its teahouse, koi ponds, landscaped hills, and pine forests, it is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese gardens.
Among its many small islands, Naoshima Island is packed with internationally renowned modern art installations and museums.
And you must see the tide pools created at Chichibugahama Beach in western Kagawa.
The reflections are a sight to behold.
Getting to Kagawa
If you’re planning a trip to Kagawa, you have several options for getting there.
Here are some of the most common ways to travel to Kagawa from major cities in Japan:
From Tokyo
The easiest way to get to Kagawa from Tokyo is by air. You can fly from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport to Takamatsu Airport, which is located in Kagawa.
The flight takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take a Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Okayama and then transfer to a local train to reach Kagawa.
This option takes about 4 hours.
From Osaka and Kyoto
If you’re coming from Osaka or Kyoto, the easiest way to get to Kagawa is by train.
You can take a shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station or Kyoto Station to Okayama and then transfer to a local train to reach Kagawa.
This option takes about 2-3 hours depending on the train you take.
From Hiroshima
To get to Kagawa from Hiroshima, you can take a shinkansen from Hiroshima Station to Okayama and then transfer to a local train to reach Kagawa.
This option takes about 2 hours.
By Ferry
If you’re coming from other parts of Japan, you can also take a ferry to Kagawa.
There are several ferry services that operate between Kagawa and other ports in Japan.
For example, there’s a ferry service that runs between Takamatsu and Osaka.
The journey takes about 4 hours.
By Bus
Finally, you can also travel to Kagawa by bus.
There are several bus companies that operate services to Kagawa from major cities in Japan.
For example, you can take a bus from Tokyo to Takamatsu.
This option takes about 12 hours.
Exploring Takamatsu
When it comes to exploring Kagawa, Takamatsu is one of the must-visit destinations.
This vibrant port city boasts a rich cultural heritage, beautiful gardens, and plenty of delicious food options.
Here are some of the top things to do in Takamatsu:
Takamatsu Castle
One of the most iconic landmarks in the city is Takamatsu Castle, also known as Tamamo Castle.
This historic site dates back to the 16th century and is a great place to learn about the region’s feudal past.
The castle grounds also offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Ritsurin Garden
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Ritsurin Garden is the perfect spot.
This traditional Japanese garden features a large pond, several tea houses, and plenty of walking paths.
It’s a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Yashima
For a more adventurous experience, head to Yashima.
This mountain offers hiking trails, stunning views, and several historic sites, including Yashima Temple and Yashima Station.
You can also take a tram to the top of the mountain for even more breathtaking views.
Parks and Landmarks
In addition to Ritsurin Garden and Takamatsu Castle, there are several other parks and landmarks worth visiting in the city.
Some highlights include Sunport Takamatsu, a modern waterfront park with great views of the sea, and Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium, a unique building designed by renowned architect Kenzo Tange.
Artistic Journey in Naoshima
If you’re an art lover, Naoshima Island is a must-visit destination.
Known as Japan’s Art Island, Naoshima is home to some of the most outstanding modern art installations and museums in the country.
Some well-known works of art include Yayoi Kusama’s Red Pumpkin and the Yellow Pumpkin too.
Benesse House, one of the most famous museums in Naoshima, impressively houses a collection of contemporary art and architecture.
The Benesse house blends in with the natural surroundings, providing visitors with a unique and immersive experience.
The Art House Project, another must-see attraction in Naoshima, transforms several abandoned houses into art installations.
Each house, designed by a different artist, offers a diverse range of styles and themes.
Naoshima also hosts the Chichu Art Museum.
Visitors can explore and discover these art museums at their leisure.
Discovering Shodoshima
When it comes to exploring, Shodoshima Island is a must-visit destination.
Located in the Seto Inland Sea, Shodoshima is known for its picturesque views, olive plantations, and natural beauty.
One of the most unique attractions on the island is Angel Road, a natural sandbar that appears during low tide, connecting Shodoshima to two smaller islands.
For those who love nature, Kankakei Gorge is a must-see destination.
The gorge is home to over 2000 trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The best time to visit is during autumn when the leaves change color, creating a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Another natural attraction on Shodoshima is the windmill park, which is home to a number of wind turbines that generate electricity for the island.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the park to learn more about the importance of renewable energy.
Of course, no visit to Shodoshima would be complete without sampling some of the island’s famous olives.
The Nishimura Olive Garden is a popular destination for olive lovers, offering a variety of olive-related products and souvenirs.
Visit to Kotohira
A visit to Kotohira is a must.
This town is home to the Kotohira-gu Shrine, also known as Kompira-san.
It’s the most popular shrine in Shikoku.
The shrine is dedicated to the god of seafaring and has been a place of worship for sailors and fishermen for centuries.
To reach the main shrine, you’ll need to climb 785 stone steps.
It may be a challenging climb, but the panoramic view of the Sanuki Plain from the observatory is definitely worth it.
Once you reach the top, you’ll find the majestic shrine pavilion, which is an impressive sight to behold.
Inside the shrine, you’ll find the inner shrine, which is dedicated to Kobo Daishi, a famous Japanese monk who is believed to have founded the Shingon sect of Buddhism.
The inner shrine is a peaceful and serene place, and you’ll feel a sense of calm as soon as you step inside.
Before you leave, make sure to pick up an amulet from the shrine.
Taste of Kagawa
When it comes to regional cuisine, Kagawa is known for its udon noodles.
So much so, a recent PR campaign named it udon prefecture.
Sanuki udon, a type of udon noodle, is a must-try dish in Kagawa.
These thick, chewy noodles are made from wheat flour and are often served in a hot broth with various toppings.
There are many restaurants in Kagawa that specialize in udon, ranging from casual noodle shops to upscale dining establishments.
One popular spot is Nakano Udon School, where you can learn how to make your own udon noodles and enjoy a delicious bowl of freshly made udon for dinner.
Marugame Castle Exploration
If you are looking for a historical and cultural experience, Marugame Castle is definitely worth a visit.
And it’s only a 10-minute walk from Marugame station.
This castle is an impressive fortification that has stood the test of time and is now a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike.
As you approach Marugame Castle, the first thing you will notice is the castle keep, which is the main tower of the castle.
This tower is six stories tall and provides a stunning view of the surrounding area from its observation decks.
You can climb up the staircases to the top of the tower and take in the breathtaking panoramic views of Kagawa Prefecture.
The castle also has a bailey, which is an enclosed courtyard that was used for various purposes during the castle’s history.
Today, the bailey is a beautiful garden that is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
You can also visit the various buildings and structures within the bailey, such as the former residence of the castle lord.
One of the most interesting things about Marugame Castle is its history.
The castle was built in the 17th century and has survived numerous battles and wars.
It has been designated as a National Historic Site and is now a symbol of Kagawa Prefecture’s rich cultural heritage.
Unforgettable Teshima Experience
If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Kagawa Prefecture, a visit to Teshima Island is a must.
This small island is home to a variety of attractions that are sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
One of the main draws of Teshima is its modern art museums.
The Teshima Art Museum, designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa and artist Rei Naito, is a stunning example of contemporary architecture.
Its minimalist design and use of natural light make it a truly unique space that is perfect for contemplation and reflection.
In addition to its museums, Teshima has some beautiful natural scenery.
The island is home to a number of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Unique Souvenirs
When visiting Kagawa prefecture, you will find a variety of unique souvenirs that you can take home to remember your trip.
Here are some of the best options:
Local Food Products
Kagawa is known for its delicious udon noodles, so it’s no surprise that udon-related souvenirs are popular.
You can find udon-flavored snacks, udon-shaped keychains, and even udon-flavored sake.
Other popular food souvenirs include olive oil from Shodoshima Island and soy sauce from Marugame.
Traditional Crafts
Kagawa has a rich tradition of crafts, including pottery, lacquerware, and textiles.
You can find beautiful ceramics, lacquerware chopsticks, and hand-dyed fabrics at local souvenir shops.
These items make great gifts for friends and family back home.
Planning Your Visit
When planning your visit to Kagawa prefecture, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful region of Japan:
Weather
While Kagawa prefecture enjoys relatively mild weather year-round, it is still important to check the forecast before your trip.
Rainy season typically occurs from early June to mid-July, so be sure to pack appropriate rain gear if you plan to visit during this time.
Additionally, typhoon season runs from late August to early October, so keep an eye on the weather forecast and adjust your plans accordingly if necessary.
The cherry blossoms are great here but that is when you’ll see the crowds.
Entrance Fees
Many of the attractions and experiences in Kagawa prefecture require entrance fees, so be sure to budget accordingly.
Some attractions offer discounts for children, students, and older people, so check the official websites for details.
Additionally, some attractions may offer combination tickets or package deals, so be sure to inquire about any available discounts to save money during your visit.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can plan a memorable and enjoyable trip to Kagawa prefecture.
Before You Go
Most of the time, Kagawa is known for being Japan’s smallest Prefecture.
This small part of Japan on the island of Shikoku is full of wonders!
We could keep adding to the list, but we have to stop at some point.
We hope this inspires you to find out for yourself everything Kagawa Prefecture has to offer!
