Things To Do
in Marugame

Marugame, Japan, is a charming city located in Kagawa Prefecture known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. The city is famous for its udon noodles, which attract food lovers from all around. Visitors can explore Marugame Castle, one of Japan's important historical sites, while enjoying the serene views of the Seto Inland Sea.

With a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, Marugame offers a unique experience for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering History and Culture
morning
:

Start your day by visiting Marugame Castle, where you can explore the historic fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Head to the Marugame Genichiro-Inokuma Museum of Contemporary Art to enjoy modern art exhibitions and the beautiful architecture of the building.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a traditional dinner at a local udon restaurant, savoring the city's famous dish.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Flavors
morning
:

Take a morning stroll through the picturesque Marugame Seaside Park, enjoying the coastal scenery and lush gardens.

afternoon
:

Visit the local food market to sample street food and pick up fresh produce, followed by a visit to the nearby Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium to catch a local sports event.

evening
:

Enjoy a night out at a izakaya, a casual Japanese pub, where you can experience local nightlife and try various small dishes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Udon$5
🍺Draft Beer$4
🍣Sushi Roll$8
Coffee$3
🏨Hotel Night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical experiences
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially udon
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Some language barriers for non-Japanese speakers
  • Public transport may be less frequent than in urban areas
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No
  • "おいしい" - Delicious

Places to Visit in Marugame

Visit one of these nice places.

Marugame Castle

Capture stunning photos of this historic castle, especially the cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn foliage.

Seto Inland Sea

The coastline provides beautiful sunset views and scenic landscapes perfect for photography.

Marugame Seaside Park

With its expansive gardens and coastal views, this park is ideal for capturing nature's beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Marugame

Marugame is a culinary delight, especially famous for its udon noodles, which are a must-try for any visitor. The city offers a variety of local dishes, street food, and restaurants that cater to different tastes.

Marugame Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Udon

Thick wheat noodles served in a savory broth, often topped with green onions, tempura, and other ingredients.

Must-Try!

Kagawa-style Curry

A unique curry dish that incorporates udon noodles, offering a different twist on traditional Japanese curry.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marugame Food Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and delicious street food, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Marugame experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Summers (June to August) can be quite hot, often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters (December to February) are mild with average temperatures around 5°C (41°F). Rain is common in late summer, particularly during typhoon season, while spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting in Japan; be prepared to bow when meeting someone or thanking them.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quietness in Public

Maintain a low voice in public spaces, particularly on public transport, to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Marugame is generally a safe city for travelers. Violent crime is rare, but it's wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical assistance.

Tipping in Marugame

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and it may even be considered rude. Exceptional service is included in the overall experience.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, especially around Marugame Castle.

Summer

Hot and humid weather is typical, making it ideal for beach activities but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Enjoy the crisp air and stunning fall colors, particularly in parks and gardens around the city.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snowfall; it's a quieter time to visit, perfect for those who enjoy fewer crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Marugame at Night

Marugame's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger cities, but it offers a charming mix of izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. Locals often gather after work to enjoy drinks and food, creating a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The nightlife scene is centered around the city center, where you can find casual places to unwind and experience local culture.

Hiking in Marugame

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yashima Trail

A scenic trail offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding landscape, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Kudakajima Island Trail

This trail leads to a beautiful island with lush greenery and coastal views, perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Marugame by plane.

Takamatsu Airport

Located about 30 minutes from Marugame, Takamatsu Airport offers domestic flights as well as some international connections, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Marugame is a walkable city with a compact layout, making it easy to explore on foot. Key attractions such as Marugame Castle and various cafes are within walking distance of each other. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are clearly marked, ensuring a pleasant walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Marugame, drawn by job opportunities in local industries and the city's comfortable living conditions.

Retirees

The city also attracts retirees due to its peaceful environment, affordable living, and access to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, and local teams often play in the region, drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Soccer

Soccer also has a significant following, with local clubs competing in various leagues and attracting fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Marugame is manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city, and there are bike rental services available for those who prefer cycling. The city is also well-connected to neighboring areas by train, making it easy to explore the wider region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Marugame.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While many dishes contain meat or fish, vegetarian options are available, especially in udon dishes where you can request vegetable broth.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but you can inquire about rice-based dishes and certain vegetable preparations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Marugame is generally good, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are reliable, and most medical facilities have English-speaking staff. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses during their visit.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide