Takamatsu Travel Tips

Recommended

—

3 of 12 in Kagawa Prefecture

Takamatsu (高松), the vibrant capital of Kagawa Prefecture, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. For centuries, it served as the gateway to Shikoku Island, with its port playing a crucial role in connecting the island to the rest of Japan. This connection flourished until the opening of the Seto Ohashi Bridge in 1988. Visitors can still experience the remnants of Takamatsu’s rich castle-town heritage, especially the influence of the Matsudaira Clan, who governed the region during the Edo Period. Their legacy is woven into the city's architecture, streets, and cultural landmarks, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.

One of Takamatsu’s most iconic attractions is Ritsurin Koen, a sprawling Japanese garden created by the Matsudaira Clan in the 17th century. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty and meticulous design, the garden features elegant ponds, tea houses, and expansive walking paths. It provides visitors with a peaceful retreat to enjoy seasonal changes and stunning views of Mount Shiun. Takamatsu Port, just a short distance from the garden, remains a hub for travelers, offering regular ferry services to nearby islands such as Shodoshima, Naoshima, Megijima, and Ogijima. This makes the port a vital starting point for exploring the Seto Inland Sea, blending historical charm with natural splendor.

Getting around

In Takamatsu, the main entry point is Sunport Takamatsu, the area around JR Takamatsu Station. It’s a lively waterfront district with easy access to Takamatsu Castle and shopping arcades that stretch through the city toward Ritsurin Garden. Attractions like Yashima and Shikoku Mura are located to the east of the city center. You can get around easily on foot, by Kotoden trains, or by JR trains—buses are also available, but trains are generally simpler to use.

The Kotoden Railway connects Takamatsu to nearby destinations like Kotohira, with lines passing through central areas and stopping near many popular sights. Its main station, Takamatsu-Chikko, is just a short walk from JR Takamatsu Station. While JR trains are less useful for city travel, they do connect to Ritsurin Garden and Yashima and are covered by the Japan Rail Pass. You can use IC cards like Suica and Icoca on most trains and buses, and the local Iruca card works on Kotoden but not on JR lines. Takamatsu Airport is 45 minutes away by bus and offers flights to Tokyo and some international destinations.