Things To Do
in Mannō

Mannō is a picturesque town located in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, known for its stunning rice fields and serene landscapes. It is home to Japan's largest pond, Mannō Pond, which provides a habitat for various wildlife and offers beautiful walking trails. The town is also famous for its traditional festivals and rich cultural heritage, making it a charming destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and exploration.

With its stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding mountains, Mannō is an ideal place for nature lovers and those interested in rural Japanese life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Mannō Pond, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk around the water and take in the beautiful scenery. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the pond.

afternoon
:

Head to the Mannō Art Museum to explore the local art scene and learn about the town's history. After the museum, visit the nearby rice fields to see the traditional farming methods still in practice.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local izakaya, where you can sample seasonal dishes and local sake.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Sanuki Mountains, which offer various trails suitable for all skill levels. Take in the breathtaking views from the summit.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a local onsen (hot spring) to relax and rejuvenate. Experience the traditional Japanese bathing culture.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a stroll through the town center, where you can explore local shops and try street food from vendors.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Meal at a restaurant$10-$25
🍜Bowl of Udon$5-$10
Coffee$3-$5
🚌Public transport ticket$1-$3
🏨Mid-range hotel room$70-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and serene environment.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Public transport may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "どこですか?" - Where is...?
  • "お願いします" - Please

Places to Visit in Mannō

Visit one of these nice places.

Mannō Pond

A stunning location for sunrise and sunset photography, with reflections of surrounding landscapes on the water.

Sanuki Mountain Range

Offers panoramic views and dramatic vistas, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.

Local Rice Fields

The vibrant green and golden fields create a picturesque rural landscape ideal for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mannō

Mannō offers a delightful culinary experience featuring local specialties that reflect the region's agricultural richness and coastal culture.

Mannō Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sanuki Udon

Thick and chewy noodles served in a flavorful broth, often accompanied by tempura.

Must-Try!

Sake

Local rice wine that pairs beautifully with various dishes and is a staple in Japanese culture.

Mannō Rice

High-quality rice grown in the fertile fields of Mannō, known for its delicious taste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mannō Farmers Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts.

Street Food Stalls

Vendors selling popular snacks like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste).

Climate Guide

Weather

Mannō experiences four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping below 0°C (32°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Always clean up after yourself in outdoor areas and respect wildlife habitats.

Politeness

Bowing is a common greeting; always use polite language and gestures.

Dining Etiquette

Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice; this is associated with funerals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mannō is considered a very safe destination for travelers. Violent crime is rare, but standard precautions should be taken, such as safeguarding personal belongings. Emergency services are accessible, and locals are generally very helpful.

Tipping in Mannō

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is standard and included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but many places accept credit cards; ensure to carry yen for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with cherry blossoms in bloom; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Hot and humid; perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals and local beach activities.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage; a great time for hiking and exploring the countryside.

Winter

Cold and occasionally snowy; offers a unique charm with quiet landscapes and hot springs for warming up.

Nightlife Guide

Mannō at Night

Mannō has a laid-back nightlife scene with a few local izakayas and bars where you can enjoy drinks and socialize. The atmosphere is casual, and it's common to see locals enjoying après-work drinks. While there are no major nightclubs, the smaller venues offer a charming experience with live music and karaoke options.

Hiking in Mannō

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kameyama Trail

A moderately challenging hike that offers panoramic views of Mannō and the surrounding countryside.

Mount Kuroshima Trail

This trail is known for its scenic beauty and is suitable for hikers looking for a peaceful experience in nature.

Airports

How to reach Mannō by plane.

Takamatsu Airport

Located about 30 kilometers from Mannō, Takamatsu Airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it the primary gateway for travelers to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mannō is quite walkable, especially around Mannō Pond and the town center. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many attractions are within a short walking distance. However, some areas may require walking on rural roads without sidewalks, so caution is advised.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

The region's economy is supported by local farmers who cultivate rice, vegetables, and fruits, maintaining traditional agricultural practices.

Artisans and Craftspeople

Mannō has a community of artisans specializing in traditional crafts, contributing to the town's cultural heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A beloved sport in Japan, baseball has a strong following in Mannō, with local teams and community events.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with local leagues and schools actively promoting the sport among youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mannō is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes buses that connect to surrounding areas; however, schedules may be less frequent on weekends. Many visitors find walking or cycling to be the most enjoyable way to explore the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mannō.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, always confirm with staff to ensure no meat-based broths are used.

Gluten-Free

Limited options are available, but some udon restaurants may offer gluten-free noodles; be sure to inquire ahead.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Mannō is accessible, with local clinics and hospitals providing a range of medical services. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 119, and English-speaking doctors may be available in larger facilities. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare needs.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide