4 DaysJapan
Takamatsu
Your 4-day travel guide
The best times to visit Takamatsu are spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November). Spring offers mild tempera...
Takamatsu•4D•All
Takamatsu, Japan
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:All travelers
Udon, Gardens, and Island Culture
Takamatsu, the capital of Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku Island, offers a relaxed coastal city experience rich in culture and culinary tradition. Known as Japan's udon capital, the city blends historic gardens with modern art and serves as the gateway to the Seto Inland Sea's islands. Visitors will find a compact, walkable city center alongside expansive cultural sites, creating an ideal destination for couples seeking a mix of serene beauty and authentic local flavor without the crowds of larger Japanese cities.
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1
Cultural Heritage and Garden Serenity
Day 1 of your journey
Ritsurin Garden is a historic Japanese landscape garden dating to the early 1600s, considered one of Japan's most beautiful. Visitors can stroll along winding paths past ponds, bridges, tea houses, and meticulously pruned pine trees, with views of Mount Shiun as a backdrop. The garden takes about 2 hours to explore thoroughly, with morning visits offering softer light and fewer crowds. The on-site Kikugetsu-tei tea house provides a traditional matcha experience overlooking the South Pond.
Ritsurin Garden
Why Visit
This garden represents the pinnacle of Japanese landscape design from the Edo period, offering a peaceful, immersive experience that showcases traditional aesthetics. It's a cultural landmark that provides insight into historical Japanese aristocracy's relationship with nature, making it essential for understanding Takamatsu's heritage.
Purchase the combined ticket that includes admission to the Sanuki Folkcraft Museum within the garden grounds. Address: 1-20-16 Ritsurincho, Takamatsu, Kagawa 760-0073.
2
Art Islands and Coastal Views
Day 2 of your journey
3
Local Neighborhoods and Craft Culture
Day 3 of your journey
4
Coastal Relaxation and Farewell
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Takamatsu is very walkable in the city center, but consider renting bicycles for longer distances or exploring coastal areas.
Purchase an ICOCA or SUICA card for convenient payment on trains, buses, and at convenience stores throughout Shikoku.
Most restaurants display plastic food models outside, making menu selection easier without Japanese language skills.
Takamatsu has excellent public transportation, but ferry schedules to islands like Naoshima vary by season, so check times in advance.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, but carry cash for smaller shops, temples, and local eateries.
Takamatsu is very safe, but standard precautions with valuables in crowded areas like shopping arcades are wise.
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is standard and included in prices.
Learn basic Japanese phrases like 'sumimasen' (excuse me) and 'arigatou gozaimasu' (thank you), as English proficiency varies.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Takamatsu are spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November). Spring offers mild temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F) with cherry blossoms typically blooming in late March to early April. Autumn provides comfortable weather around 18-23°C (64-73°F) with colorful foliage in November. Summer (June to September) can be hot and humid with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher, though it's festival season. Winter (December to February) is cool with temperatures around 5-10°C (41-50°F) and fewer tourists, but some attractions may have reduced hours.
Local Insights & Tips
Takamatsu embodies the relaxed pace of Shikoku Island, where udon culture is a serious matter and gardens are spaces for contemplation. The city takes pride in its Sanuki udon tradition, with locals debating the merits of different shops much like wine enthusiasts discuss vineyards. When visiting temples, observe proper etiquette: bow slightly before entering, avoid loud conversation, and follow any photography restrictions. In restaurants, it's customary to say 'itadakimasu' before eating and 'gochisousama deshita' after finishing. The city has a mix of traditional values and contemporary art influences, particularly from nearby Naoshima. Public behavior is generally reserved, so speaking quietly on public transportation is appreciated.