Prefecture
Kagawa Prefecture, located in the northeastern part of Shikoku, is a popular tourist destination famous for its Sanuki udon noodles. Facing the Seto Inland Sea, this beautiful prefecture is the smallest in Japan yet captivates visitors with its rich history, culture, scenic spots, and world-class cuisine.
The greatest charm of Kagawa Prefecture is undoubtedly Sanuki udon. Characterized by firm noodles and deeply flavored broth, Sanuki udon is not only a daily staple for locals but also a famous specialty that attracts food enthusiasts from across Japan. From self-service udon shops to long-established restaurants, there are approximately 700 udon establishments throughout the prefecture, each offering their unique flavors.
Kagawa Prefecture has a long history, with Kotohira Shrine (Konpira-san) being an especially important shrine that has attracted worshippers since ancient times. From the main shrine, reached after climbing 785 stone steps, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. Additionally, many temples along the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage route are located here, making it a popular destination not only for pilgrims but also for tourists interested in history and architecture.
Known as a main venue for the Setouchi Triennale art festival, Kagawa Prefecture offers unique landscapes where art and nature blend on multiple islands including Naoshima, Teshima, and Shodoshima. Particularly, the “Chichu Art Museum” and “Benesse House” on Naoshima are world-renowned contemporary art facilities that attract many tourists.
Kagawa Prefecture’s mild climate and rich natural environment are suitable for cultivating olives and citrus fruits like lemons, with Shodoshima’s olives being particularly known for their high quality. Dishes and souvenirs made from these local products are also highlights of any trip.
Transportation access is convenient, with direct flights from Takamatsu Airport to Tokyo and Osaka, and connection to Honshu via the Seto Ohashi Bridge, making it easily accessible by car or train. With its mild climate throughout the year, Kagawa Prefecture is a popular tourist destination where visitors can enjoy seasonal attractions.
Discover Shodoshima’s top 12 attractions with practical itineraries. From Angel Road and Kankakei Gorge to Olive Park, enjoy the island’s best spots efficiently.
Learn how to take the airport limousine bus from JR Takamatsu Station to Takamatsu Airport, including where to board, how to buy tickets, and travel time details.
Visit Takamatsu Castle, one of Japan's finest seaside fortresses. Enjoy scenic views from the tenshudai, explore historic gates and turrets, and experience unique activities like sea bream feeding and traditional boat rides.
Just a 3-minute walk from JR Takamatsu Station, this photo-rich guide takes you through Takamatsu Castle—one of Japan’s great seaside fortresses, known for its historical charm and scenic moats.
Start your morning near Takamatsu Station with a bowl of Sanuki udon at Merikenya, a self-service shop loved by locals. See what to expect, from the ordering process to the taste of their signature dishes.
Join a real-time journey across Shodoshima to see how much you can experience in a single day. This one-day challenge covers scenic spots, local flavors, and cultural highlights—all without a car.
Explore Shodoshima Island car-free with our complete Olive Bus guide. All 9 routes, timetables, fares (¥200-500), and access to Angel Road, Kankakei Gorge, Olive Park. Day pass available for ¥1,600. Perfect for travelers without rental cars.
A complete guide from Takamatsu to Shodoshima. Compare ferry and high-speed boat fares, travel times, and routes departing from Takamatsu Port to Tonosho or Ikeda.
Complete guide to accessing Kankakei Gorge on Shodoshima Island via public transportation. Includes free shuttle bus schedules, November express line timetables, and detailed routes to Kusakabe Port. Enjoy Japan's spectacular canyon views without a car.
Reach Shodoshima’s Tonosho Port from Takamatsu Port in just 35 minutes aboard the Olive Marine fast ferry. This guide covers the boarding process, onboard experience, and travel tips with photos.
Walk the low-tide sandbar of Angel Road on Shodoshima. Check official tide times, see Nakanoshima and Promised Hill Lookout, and get bus and car access from Tonosho Port.
Angel Road on Shodoshima appears twice a day at low tide, forming a walkable sandbar to Nakayojima. This first-hand report covers how it looks at low tide, tips for walking the sand path, wish plaques, and the Yakusoku-no-Oka (Promise Hill) Observatory views.
Walk across the world’s narrowest strait on Shodoshima. Find Eitaibashi Bridge, get a Crossing Certificate, and see easy bus access to Dofuchi Strait.
Discover Shodoshima Olive Park’s best photo spots, scenic views, and local olive treats—from white-and-blue Greek windmills to charming monuments and unique sweets.
Explore Shodoshima Olive Park’s iconic Greek windmill and Mediterranean landscapes. Enjoy free broomstick rentals for whimsical photos. A detailed visit report with practical tips and stunning views.
Discover the stunning beauty of Shodoshima's Kankakei Gorge with our complete guide. Take in panoramic views from the ropeway and observation decks, explore seasonal highlights, enjoy local gourmet specialties, and get easy access tips for first-time visitors.
Explore Shodoshima’s Kankakei Gorge with ropeway rides offering breathtaking valley views, panoramic lookouts like Takatori Observatory, scenic walking trails, and exclusive local gourmet. A must-visit for experiencing the island’s beauty in every season.
A detailed guide to reaching Kankakei Gorge on Shodoshima. Learn the 3 main ways to access this famous scenic spot—by ropeway, car, or hiking—along with travel times and tips for each.
Explore five unique restaurants in Kawaramachi, Takamatsu's largest nightlife area. A perfect evening food-hopping route for your trip to Kagawa.
Enjoy stylish yet casual creative dishes and wine at akari, a cozy bistro just 5 minutes from Kawaramachi Station in Takamatsu.
Enjoy authentic Sanuki udon at Sanuki Mennosuke in central Takamatsu. This local favorite serves handmade noodles, crispy tempura, and regional sake until 1:00 AM.
Honetsukidori is Kagawa’s flavorful local specialty made from grilled bone-in chicken thigh. Discover its crispy skin, bold garlic and pepper seasoning, and the best ways to enjoy it day or night.
Located just a 2-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station in Takamatsu, Goya is a beloved local izakaya offering juicy bone-in chicken and classic izakaya fare in a relaxed, no-frills setting.
Explore the highlights of Marugame Castle, including its record-high stone walls, original Edo-period tower, panoramic views, and rare cultural stays—all in one guide.
Explore a firsthand photo report from Marugame Castle, home to Japan’s tallest stone walls and a preserved Edo-period keep. Discover steep climbs, sweeping views, and historic landmarks throughout the journey.
This guide explains how to reach Marugame Castle by train, on foot, or by car. Includes walking routes, travel times, parking info, and photos for first-time visitors.
Discover the best nightlife spots in Takamatsu, Kagawa! From local izakaya to bars and restaurants, explore the vibrant Kawaramachi and Marugamemachi districts for a perfect evening in Takamatsu City.