Takamatsu offers a delightful mix of seaside views, tasty udon, a breathaking garden and island escapes. The capital of Kagawa Prefecture on the island of Shikoku is the perfect place to spend a few days soaking in the unique charm of the area.
As soon as I stepped out of Takamatsu Train Station, I could smell the scent of the sea. After a week in Osaka, I enjoyed the laid-back. slower pace of Takamatsu.
What is the Best Way to Get to Takamatsu?
The best way to get to Takamatsu is to take the Marine Liner, a train that runs between Okayama on Japan’s main island of Honshu and Takamatsu. Reserve a seat on the top floor of the double-decker Green Car for the best views. The train will cross the Great Seto Bridge over the Seto Inland Sea. The bridge has two levels with cars crossing on the upper level and trains on the lower level. The journey across the bridge takes about 10 minutes and is very scenic!
The Best Things to Do in Takamatsu City
Eat Udon
Kagawa Prefecture is known for its Sanuki Udon, chewy noodles which are served in multiple ways, including cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth. You shouldn’t leave Takamatsu without trying udon at least once!
Visit Takamatsu Symbol Tower
At 30 stories high, Takamatsu Symbol Tower is the tallest skyscraper in Shikoku. On the 29th floor, there is a free observation deck where you can see views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. The observation area is quite small, so your visit will probably only take a few minutes, unless you decide to eat in one of the restaurants at the top of the building to enjoy the view longer. The observation area closes at 5pm.
Stroll to the Red Lighthouse at Sunset
This red lighthouse is made of glass bricks. As you stroll out to the lighthouse, you will probably see a few people fishing nearby. The ligthouse is beautifully illuminated at night.
Watch the Sunset from Takamatsu Pier
Takamatsu Port offers ferry service to the islands of Naoshima, Megijima, Shodoshima, and Ogijima. I loved sitting near the pier and watching all the ferries arriving and departing around sunset.
Explore Ritsurin Garden
Ritsurin Garden is one of Japan’s most impressive historical gardens. Established in the early 17th century, this huge garden features tranquil ponds and traditional teahouses. You can spend a few hours here enjoying a leisurely walk, taking a traditional boat ride, or drinking matcha at the Kikugetsutei Teahouse while admiring the peaceful South Pond.
Stroll through Takamatsu Castle Park
One of the few Japanese castles built next to the sea, its moats are filled with salt water directly from the sea. The castle tower was not open when I was there, but strolling around the park and castle ruins was still enjoyable. You can also buy some fish food and feed the koi fish here.
Ride the Kotoden
Also known as the Takamatsu-Kotohira Electric Railroad, the Kotoden is Takamatsu’s local railway line. Its trains have charming interiors! I rode the Kotoden from Takamatsu-chikko Station to the nearest station to Ritsurin Garden – Ritsurinkoen Station.
Visit Marugamemachi Shopping Arcade
The Marugamemachi Shopping Arcade is a 2.7 km long covered shopping area. The arcade’s most distinctive feature is the dome modeled after the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy. Local events often take place at the plaza where the dome is.
Visit Pokémon Center Kagawa
As of late October 2025, Japan’s newest Pokémon Center has opened in Takamatsu! It is the only Pokémon Center on the island of Shikoku. The new store has exclusive plushies like Udon Pikachu (¥2,750) – a Pikachu clutching a bowl of Udon and Slowpoke & Pikachu (¥4,400) – a Slowpoke with a Pikachu perched on top of it. It is located in Marugame Green Shopping Centre and is open daily from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm.
Shop for Souvenirs at Takamatsu Shikoku Shop 88
Located in Maritime Plaza Takamatsu, this massive souvenir shop is a must-visit. This shop is filled with everything from Slowpoke merch to clothes for a Shikoku 88 pilgrimage!
Day Trips from Takamatsu
Marugame Castle
Marugame Castle, located in Kagawa Prefecture, is one of only a few original castles remaining in Japan. Built in 1597, it stands atop a steep stone base offering panoramic views of the surrounding city and Seto Inland Sea. Though small, its historic keep and impressive stone walls make it a must-visit for history lovers and photographers alike. The castle grounds are especially popular during cherry blossom season, when the park transforms into a scenic hanami spot.
Naoshima
Naoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea, renowned worldwide for its fusion of contemporary art, architecture, and tranquil island life. Often called “Japan’s art island,” it’s home to iconic museums like Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House, along with outdoor installations and colorful works by artists like Yayoi Kusama.
Other Art Islands
In addition to Naoshima, several art and culture-rich islands are easily accessible from Takamatsu. Teshima is known for its serene landscapes and the awe-inspiring Teshima Art Museum. Shodoshima, the largest of the islands, blends traditional culture with contemporary art and is famous for its olive groves, dramatic coastlines, and the Kankakei Gorge. Megijima, often linked to the legend of Momotaro, features coastal caves and a relaxed vibe, along with small-scale art installations from the Setouchi Triennale. Together, these islands form a captivating blend of art, nature, and history, perfect for day trips from Takamatsu.
