Things To Do
in Higashikagawa

Higashikagawa is a charming city located in Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku Island, Japan. Known for its rich agricultural heritage, it offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and is surrounded by beautiful mountains. The city features a blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern amenities, making it an appealing destination for both locals and tourists.

Visitors can explore local temples, enjoy fresh seafood, and experience the warm hospitality of the residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Higashikagawa City Museum to learn about the region's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Explore the stunning Ritsurin Garden, a landscape garden that embodies the beauty of Japanese garden design.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, where you can taste various regional dishes and drinks.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a guided hike in the nearby Shikoku Mountains, enjoying the scenic trails and natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Visit the local seafood market to sample fresh catches and enjoy a casual lunch.

evening
:

Wind down with a visit to a local onsen (hot spring) for a relaxing soak.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Ramen meal$8
🍣Sushi platter$15
🍻Local beer$5
Coffee$3
🏨Hotel night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Delicious regional cuisine, especially seafood.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent.
  • English may not be widely spoken.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Higashikagawa

Visit one of these nice places.

Ritsurin Garden

A picturesque garden featuring ponds, walking paths, and seasonal flowers, perfect for nature photography.

Seto Inland Sea

Capture stunning sunsets over the tranquil waters of the Seto Inland Sea from various viewpoints.

Local Temples

Photograph the beautiful architecture and serene surroundings of local temples, such as the Kannonji Temple.

Culinary Guide

Food in Higashikagawa

Higashikagawa offers a delightful culinary scene, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and traditional flavors.

Higashikagawa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sanuki Udon

A famous thick wheat noodle dish from Kagawa, served in a savory broth and often topped with green onions.

Must-Try!

Seafood Tempura

Fresh local seafood, lightly battered and deep-fried, served with a dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Higashikagawa Fish Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood and local produce, perfect for sampling snacks.

Local Street Stalls

Try various street foods like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls) from vendors around the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Higashikagawa experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Spring (March to May) brings pleasant temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms, while summer (June to August) can be hot and humid. Autumn (September to November) showcases vibrant foliage, and winter (December to February) is mild with occasional cold spells, making it suitable for onsen visits.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always bow when greeting or thanking someone; it's a sign of respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove your shoes when entering homes or traditional accommodations; slippers are often provided.

Quietness in Public

Keep conversations at a low volume in public transport and public places to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

Safety Guide

Safety

Higashikagawa is considered a safe destination, with low crime rates. As with any travel, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and to keep personal belongings secure. In case of emergencies, local hospitals and clinics are available.

Tipping in Higashikagawa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude; good service is expected without extra gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are becoming more common in urban areas; mobile payments are also gaining popularity.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, ideal for enjoying local beaches and seafood, but stay hydrated.

Autumn

Experience vibrant autumn foliage, particularly in the parks and mountains, offering stunning views.

Winter

Winters are mild, though chilly; it's a great time to enjoy onsen visits and warm comfort foods.

Nightlife Guide

Higashikagawa at Night

Higashikagawa's nightlife is low-key compared to larger cities, with a few izakayas and bars where locals gather for drinks and food. Karaoke is also popular in the area, and you can find establishments that offer private rooms for singing. For a more relaxed evening, consider visiting a local onsen that stays open late.

Hiking in Higashikagawa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yashima

A popular hiking spot offering stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea, with trails suitable for various skill levels.

Kagawa Prefectural Nature Park

Features well-maintained trails through beautiful landscapes, ideal for both hiking and nature walks.

Airports

How to reach Higashikagawa by plane.

Takamatsu Airport

Located approximately 30 kilometers from Higashikagawa, Takamatsu Airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Higashikagawa is a relatively walkable city, especially in the downtown area where shops, restaurants, and attractions are in close proximity. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common. However, some attractions may require a short bus or taxi ride.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

The region is known for agriculture, and many residents are involved in farming, particularly rice and vegetable cultivation.

Young Families

Higashikagawa has a growing population of young families, attracted by the area's quality of life and educational opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, with many local teams and schools fostering a strong community spirit.

Soccer

Soccer has gained popularity, with local clubs participating in regional leagues and tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Higashikagawa is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes local buses, which connect to major attractions, but may have limited schedules. Taxis are available but can be more expensive.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Higashikagawa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to inquire about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, especially for traditional dishes like udon, so it's important to check with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Higashikagawa is good, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and travelers. Emergency services are reliable, and most medical facilities have English-speaking staff. Travel insurance is recommended for international visitors.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide