Sanuki,
Sanuki is a coastal city located in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan known for its beautiful beaches and historic sites. The city is famous for its Sanuki udon noodles, a local specialty that attracts food enthusiasts from all over Japan. Sanuki Castle, a symbol of the city's feudal past, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from its hilltop location.
With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, Sanuki is a charming destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and exploration.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Castles and Temples
morning:Start your day with a visit to Marugame Castle, one of Japan's 12 original castles. Afterward, wander through the serene Ritsurin Garden and take in the beauty of the meticulously manicured landscapes and traditional architecture. For breakfast, head to Marugame Udon for a delicious bowl of Sanuki udon.
afternoon:Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to Zentsuji Temple, considered the birthplace of Kukai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. Then, discover the historic streets of the Honmachi area and indulge in some local street food delicacies.
evening:For a night-out, head to the lively Sanuki night market to experience the vibrant atmosphere, savor local cuisine, and shop for artisanal crafts.
Coastal Adventures and Seafood Delights
morning:Embark on a scenic coastal drive to the picturesque town of Uchinomi, where you can explore the scenic coastline and pristine beaches. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a delightful brunch at a seaside café, offering fresh seafood specialties.
afternoon:Visit the Takamatsu Fish Market and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere while sampling an array of mouthwatering seafood dishes. Continue your seafood journey with a visit to the Ota Market, a bustling seafood market offering a wide variety of local catches.
evening:For a night-out, head to the lively restaurant and bar scene in Takamatsu's waterfront district, where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes and relax with stunning waterfront views.
Art and Nature Immersion
morning:Embark on a cultural exploration at the Setouchi Triennale Art Festival, where you can immerse yourself in contemporary art installations set against the stunning natural landscapes of the Seto Inland Sea. Enjoy a leisurely brunch at a charming café nestled within the art-filled islands.
afternoon:Continue your artistic journey by visiting the Chichu Art Museum, renowned for its minimalist architecture and masterpieces by artists such as Claude Monet and James Turrell. Take a tranquil stroll through the Benesse Art Site Naoshima and marvel at the blend of art and nature.
evening:For a night-out, experience the vibrant art and dining scene on Naoshima Island, where you can enjoy fusion cuisine and unwind in a laid-back island atmosphere.
Culinary Delights and Historic Treasures
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Shikoku Mura Open Air Museum, a treasure trove of historic buildings and traditional crafts that offer a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. Indulge in a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local teahouse nestled within the museum grounds.
afternoon:Discover the culinary wonders of Sanuki by joining a hands-on udon-making experience at a local workshop. After satisfying your appetite with your handmade udon, explore the charming old town area of Konpira and browse through artisan shops and hidden gems.
evening:For a night-out, head to the lively izakayas and sake bars in the historic streets of Kagawa, where you can savor local sake and savor the vibrant nightlife of the region.
Sanuki Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Sanuki Udon
A type of thick wheat flour noodle served in a savory broth, often topped with green onions, tempura, or grated radish. Must-try variations include Kake (plain), Kitsune (with sweet tofu), and Tempura (with battered, deep-fried ingredients). You can find authentic Sanuki Udon at Kagawa Prefecture, particularly in the city of Takamatsu.
Must-Try!
Olive Beef
Renowned for its marbled texture and rich flavor, Olive Beef is a premium beef produced from cattle raised in Kagawa Prefecture. It's best enjoyed in yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurants and teppanyaki (iron griddle) establishments throughout the region.
Taimeshi
A traditional dish consisting of sea bream served on a bed of seasoned rice. This delicate and flavorful specialty can be savored at local seafood restaurants and traditional Japanese eateries in Sanuki.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Takamatsu Marugamemachi Shopping Street
This bustling shopping street is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering an array of street food stalls and vendors selling local delicacies like Mitarashi Dango (grilled rice dumplings coated in a sweet soy glaze), Takoyaki (octopus balls), and freshly-made Taiyaki (fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste).
Sanuki Udon Street in Kotohira
Kotohira is celebrated for its charming Sanuki Udon Street, where you can stroll through a variety of udon shops, each serving their own take on the beloved noodle dish. It's a fantastic spot to sample different styles of Sanuki Udon and experience the local udon culture.
Pet sitters in Sanuki
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!