Things To Do
in Marugame
Marugame is a city located in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its historic Marugame Castle, which offers panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. The city is also famous for its Sanuki udon noodles, a local specialty enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Marugame is a charming, laid-back city with a rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural surroundings.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting a local udon shop to taste fresh, handmade udon noodles. Enjoy the unique flavors and learn about the traditional methods behind udon-making.
Head to Marugame Castle, a stunning historical site with beautiful gardens. Take a leisurely stroll around the castle grounds and soak in the rich history.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a seaside restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood dishes. Watch the sunset over the ocean for a perfect ending to your day.
Visit the Marugame Genichiro-Inokuma Museum of Contemporary Art to experience modern Japanese art. The museum features unique exhibits that are both inspiring and thought-provoking.
Explore the local streets to find charming shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs. Don't forget to taste some local snacks while you shop!
Enjoy a cultural performance at a nearby theater, where you can experience local music and dance. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the artistic vibe of Marugame.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Beautiful natural scenery, including parks and rivers
- Delicious local cuisine, especially udon noodles
- Welcoming and friendly local residents
- Less crowded than larger cities, providing a more relaxed atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Less access to international amenities and services
- Public transportation may not be as frequent as in larger cities
- Limited job opportunities for expatriates
- Language barrier may be challenging for non-Japanese speakers
Best Activities in Marugame
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Marugame Castle and its beautiful surrounding park.
Hike or enjoy a leisurely walk on the trails of Mt. Iino for stunning views of the city and surrounding nature.
Embark on a portion of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a famous trail that passes through Marugame, for a spiritual and outdoor experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Marugame with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Marugame
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic castle with panoramic views of the city and Seto Inland Sea
Offers stunning views of Marugame and the surrounding area, especially during cherry blossom season
Scenic park with beautiful cherry blossoms and a great vantage point for city views
Food in Marugame
Marugame Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A specialty of Marugame, Sanuki Udon is a type of thick wheat noodle served in a savory broth. It is often topped with green onions, tempura flakes, and other savory ingredients. For an authentic experience, head to Nakamura Udon, a popular udon shop in Marugame.
Must-Try!
Musubi, or rice balls, are a beloved snack in Marugame. These triangular or cylindrical rice delicacies are often wrapped in seaweed and filled with various ingredients like pickled plum, grilled fish, or seasoned vegetables. Visit a local convenience store like Lawson or 7-Eleven to grab a quick Musubi.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Marugame better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the vibrant Marugame Night Market, where you can savor an array of street food delights ranging from yakitori (grilled skewered chicken) and takoyaki (octopus balls) to freshly made okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). The market also offers a fantastic assortment of local snacks and sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Marugame, it is customary to bow when greeting someone as a sign of respect.
When entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments, it is polite to remove your shoes.
It is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing or sitting too close to others.
In public transportation, it is polite to keep noise to a minimum and use headphones when listening to music or watching videos.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Marugame with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Marugame
Ensure a smooth experience
In Marugame, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries. In fact, tipping can sometimes be seen as rude or disrespectful. The prices of goods and services are usually all-inclusive, and excellent service is considered a standard part of the job.
Payment in Marugame, Japan is predominantly done through cash, although credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in urban areas and larger establishments. Contactless payment methods such as mobile wallet apps are also gaining popularity. It's important to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller shops, street vendors, or rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Marugame.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Marugame, Japan for cherry blossoms and pleasant weather. Expect blooming cherry blossoms, traditional Hanami picnics, and local festivals.
Best time to experience traditional summer festivals and enjoy warm weather. Expect lively festivals, fireworks, and outdoor events.
Best time for fall foliage and milder temperatures. Expect beautiful autumn colors, harvest festivals, and seasonal local cuisine.
Best time for winter illuminations and hot springs. Expect festive light displays, hot spring baths, and seasonal winter cuisine.
Marugame at Night
Hiking in Marugame
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A famous mountain located near Takamatsu, offering excellent hiking trails and panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Located on Shodoshima Island, this area features stunning natural scenery and well-maintained hiking paths.
A mountain situated close to Marugame, it offers various trails with options for both beginners and experienced hikers.
While primarily a historical site, the surrounding areas provide pleasant walking and hiking opportunities.
A popular local trail that provides a gentle hike with beautiful views and is easy to access from Marugame.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Marugame through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Marugame by plane.
A small airport located near Takamatsu, primarily serving domestic flights.
The main international airport serving Takamatsu and the Kagawa region, offering both domestic and limited international flights.
An international airport located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, serving the Kansai region with numerous international connections.
An airport located in Okayama, serving both domestic and international flights, positioned about 70 km from Marugame.
An international airport located in Hiroshima Prefecture, approximately 140 km from Marugame, with various international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Marugame, encompassing a mix of various cultural backgrounds within Japan.
Includes individuals from other countries residing in Marugame, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
This demographic includes a significant number of students and young individuals, reflecting the city's educational infrastructure.
An important demographic in Marugame, highlighting the city’s aging population and associated community services.
The Soul of Marugame
Discover the essence of Marugame through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is extremely popular in Marugame, with several local teams and a strong community support.
Baseball is cherished in Marugame, with local schools and clubs actively participating in regional tournaments.
Basketball enjoys a following in Marugame, with various youth leagues and school competitions.
Volleyball is played in schools and community leagues throughout Marugame, fostering teamwork and sportsmanship.
Tennis is a popular recreational activity in Marugame, with several courts available for public use.
Cycling has gained popularity in and around Marugame, with scenic routes that are enjoyed by both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Marugame.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Marugame's cuisine traditionally leans towards meat and seafood, many restaurants offer vegetarian and even vegan-friendly options. Look for udon and sushi places, as they often accommodate these dietary preferences.
Individuals with gluten restrictions may find it challenging to navigate local dishes, as soy sauce and wheat-based ingredients are prevalent. However, some specialized restaurants or dishes like sashimi (sliced raw fish) can be suitable, but it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly to the staff.