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Marugame Castle is one of Japan’s twelve surviving original castles and is famous for having the tallest stone walls in the country. Not only is it a fascinating destination, but it’s also conveniently located, making it easy to include in your travel itinerary.
Still, many visitors may wonder: “What’s the nearest station?”, “Can I walk there?”, or “Where can I park if I’m driving?”—questions worth checking beforehand.
This article provides a detailed guide on getting to Marugame Castle by train, on foot, by taxi, or by car, complete with real photos and tips. Even first-time visitors can reach the castle with confidence, thanks to insights on the local atmosphere and useful precautions.
Taking the train from Takamatsu Station is the simplest and most convenient way to reach Marugame Castle. The JR Yosan Line will get you to Marugame Station in about 35 minutes with no transfers—ideal for a stress-free trip.
Start by boarding the JR Yosan Line from Takamatsu Station. The station building has a sleek glass exterior and a clearly marked ticket gate.
On the platform, you’ll find Yosan Line trains—silver-bodied with two blue lines running along the side in a simple, clean design.
The ride from Takamatsu to Marugame takes about 35 minutes and costs 560 yen. Since no transfer is required, even first-time travelers can relax.
Inside the train, you’ll find both long bench seats and booth-style box seats, so you can choose what suits your travel style.
After about 10 stops, you’ll arrive at Marugame Station. The ceiling is decorated with uchiwa (paper fans), a local specialty that greets you upon arrival.
From Marugame Station, it takes about 15 minutes to walk to the castle.
Exit the South Gate of Marugame Station. After passing through the ticket gate, the exit to the right of the tourist information center leads to the South Gate.
The South Gate features a spacious rotary and is busier than the North Gate. The MIMOCA (Marugame Genichiro-Inokuma Museum of Contemporary Art) is also located nearby.
Along the way to the castle, you’ll walk through Tori-cho Shopping Street, a retro-style shopping arcade with nostalgic charm.
While many shops are closed (it’s something of a shuttered arcade), there are still old buildings and local character to enjoy. It’s a recommended walking route.
Once you exit the arcade and reach the surrounding streets, you’ll spot Marugame Castle ahead. Just follow the path toward the entrance.
Taxis are available at both the North and South Gates of Marugame Station.
From the North Gate, the fare to the castle is around 650 yen.
We tried waiting on Kyogoku-dori (Prefectural Road 21) in front of the Otemon Gate, but no taxis came. It’s unlikely you’ll catch one just passing by.
If you plan to return to Marugame Station by taxi, we recommend checking the taxi company phone numbers in advance.
Calling ahead ensures you’ll get a ride back.
| Company Name | Phone Number | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Kotosan Taxi | 0877 - 22 - 5555 | http://kotosan - taxi.com/ |
| Buryu Taxi | 0877 - 24 - 4848 | https://www.buryutaxi.com/ |
If you’re driving to Marugame Castle, you’ll want to know where to park and whether it’s free or paid.
Here are nearby free parking options.
There is a parking area just south of the Marugame City Museum located within the castle grounds.
It’s free and accommodates around 50 vehicles. There’s also a bicycle parking area nearby. Hours: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm.
Located right in front of the castle, the Shimin Hiroba (Civic Plaza) parking lot is another free option.
Also free, with space for 22 vehicles. Hours: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.
If free parking lots are full, paid city-run parking lots nearby are a good alternative. Many offer discounts for castle visitors.
| Parking Name | Walk to Castle | Hours | Capacity | Fees | Free Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Otemae Daiichi Parking Lot | 7 min | 24 hrs | ~170 cars | ¥100 per 30 min Max ¥400 from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am | 2 hrs | Free for 1 hr upon entry +1 hr with validation from museum, castle tower, or tourist center |
| Otemachi Nishi Parking Lot | 8 min | 24 hrs | 137 cars | ¥100 per 30 min Max ¥400 from 2:00 am to 7:00 am | 2 hrs | 2 hrs free with validation at museum, castle tower, or tourist center |
| Otemae Daisan Parking Lot | 8 min | 24 hrs | 14 cars | ¥100 per 30 min | - | - |
| Ekimae Underground Parking Lot | 15 min | 24 hrs | 263 cars | ¥100 per 30 min Max ¥1,000 per 24 hrs | 2 hrs | Free for 1 hr upon entry +1 hr with validation from museum, castle tower, or tourist center |
*As of August 2025. For the latest information, check the official Marugame Castle website (Access Info).
Marugame Castle is within walking distance of Marugame Station and accessible by taxi.
If you’re driving or renting a car, you’ll find nearby free parking options. Even if those are full, paid city parking lots are just a short walk away and offer time-limited free parking with validation (don’t forget to get your ticket validated at the museum or castle).
With its outstanding access and compact layout, Marugame Castle is a great destination even if you’re relying on public transportation.
Boasting Japan’s tallest stone walls and elegant curves, Marugame Castle is often called the “Stone Wall Castle.” It’s also one of the last twelve castles with original keeps—well worth your visit.
