Things To Do
in Sanuki

Sanuki, located in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is particularly famous for Sanuki udon, a type of thick wheat noodle that is a beloved staple in the region. The area is dotted with historic temples, beautiful parks, and stunning coastlines, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Visitors can also enjoy local festivals that showcase the vibrant traditions of the area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Ritsurin Garden, a stunning Japanese landscape garden that features beautiful ponds and walking paths.

afternoon
:

Explore the Shikoku Mura, an open-air museum showcasing traditional farmhouses and structures from the Shikoku region.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local udon restaurant, sampling the famous Sanuki udon served with various toppings.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a scenic hike at the Sanuki Mountains, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and the beauty of nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Naoshima Island, known for its contemporary art museums and installations.

evening
:

Relax at a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after a day of exploration.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Udon$5
🍣Sushi Set$15
🍶Local Beer$4
Coffee$3
🍰Dessert$6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially udon
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife options compared to major cities
  • Some language barriers for non-Japanese speakers
  • Public transportation 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
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Sanuki

Visit one of these nice places.

Ritsurin Garden

Known for its stunning landscapes, Ritsurin Garden provides numerous picturesque spots, especially during cherry blossom season.

Naoshima Island

Famous for its contemporary art installations, Naoshima offers unique photographic opportunities against a backdrop of beautiful sea views.

Shikoku Mura

An open-air museum that showcases traditional architecture and scenic landscapes, perfect for capturing the essence of rural Japan.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sanuki

Sanuki is a culinary paradise, especially famous for its udon noodles which are a must-try when visiting the region. The local cuisine also includes fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables that reflect the area's agricultural heritage.

Sanuki Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sanuki Udon

Thick and chewy wheat noodles served either hot or cold, typically topped with scallions, tempura, or a raw egg.

Must-Try!

Kagawa Soba

A unique soba noodle dish that is made from buckwheat and served in a light broth.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Takamatsu Station Market

A vibrant market near the station where you can sample various local delicacies, including udon and seafood.

Sunport Takamatsu

A lively area with food stalls offering street food, including grilled fish and sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sanuki experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are typically hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters are mild, averaging about 5°C (41°F), with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn provide pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Remove Shoes

It's customary to remove shoes when entering a home or certain traditional establishments.

Polite Greetings

Bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect in Japanese culture.

Quiet Public Behavior

Maintaining a low volume in public spaces is appreciated and considered polite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sanuki is generally very safe for travelers, with a low crime rate. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings. In case of emergencies, it’s advisable to have a plan for contacting local authorities or emergency services.

Tipping in Sanuki

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as part of the job.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in urban areas; convenience stores also offer ATMs.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, especially in parks and gardens.

Summer

Hot and humid, summer is great for outdoor activities but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn foliage make this a picturesque time to visit, especially for hiking.

Winter

Winters are mild, with occasional cold snaps; it's a good time for hot springs and enjoying seasonal dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Sanuki at Night

Sanuki offers a laid-back nightlife scene, with izakayas (Japanese pubs) and bars where locals gather after work. The atmosphere is friendly, and you can often find live music or karaoke. However, options are limited compared to larger cities, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed evening.

Hiking in Sanuki

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yoshino Mountains

A well-known hiking destination offering trails that vary in difficulty, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Mount Sakaide

A relatively easy hike that rewards climbers with panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands.

Airports

How to reach Sanuki by plane.

Takamatsu Airport

Located about 16 kilometers from Sanuki, Takamatsu Airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections. It's well connected to the city by bus and taxi services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sanuki is quite walkable, especially in urban areas like Takamatsu, where many attractions are within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly crossings are common. However, some rural areas may require transportation to access certain sites.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population is predominantly Japanese, with a strong sense of community and pride in local traditions.

Tourists

Visitors come from both Japan and abroad, often attracted by the region's culinary offerings and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in Japan, with local teams and high school tournaments drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Soccer

Soccer has gained popularity in recent years, with local clubs competing in regional leagues and attracting young talent.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sanuki is generally manageable, with congestion mainly during peak hours in urban areas. Public transportation includes buses and trains, which are reliable but may be limited in rural regions. Renting a bicycle is a popular option for exploring the town and nearby areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sanuki.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While many local dishes feature meat or seafood, vegetarian options are available, especially in udon restaurants that offer vegetable-based broths.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, but some restaurants offer rice dishes and salads.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Sanuki is generally good, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and many doctors speak basic English. It’s advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide