Things To Do
in 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.
- "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: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Ritsurin Garden, a beautiful landscaped park with ponds and a tea house. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the picturesque views and serene atmosphere.
Head over to Takamatsu City to explore the historic Takamatsu Castle. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Wind down by visiting the local izakayas for dinner. Sample delicious Sanuki udon and experience the lively atmosphere.
Visit the Shikoku Mura, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Japanese houses. Engage with local artisans demonstrating their crafts.
Take a short hike to the iconic Nioh-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Revel in the tranquil surroundings and appreciate the unique architecture.
Relax at a local onsen to unwind from the day's activities. Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at your accommodation.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and natural landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Famous for its udon noodles, attracting food lovers.
- Good public transport and accessibility.
- Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Smaller city life may not suit everyone.
- Less international influence compared to larger cities.
- Some areas may lack English signage.
- Natural disasters like earthquakes due to geographical location.
Best Activities in Sanuki
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic bike ride through the picturesque countryside of Sanuki, exploring the rural landscape and charming villages.
Embark on a hiking adventure up Mount Yashima to take in breathtaking panoramic views of the region and experience the natural beauty of Sanuki.
Stroll through the stunning Ritsurin Garden, known for its exquisite landscaping, tranquil ponds, and historic teahouses, offering a peaceful outdoor escape.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sanuki with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sanuki
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic garden featuring beautiful landscapes, traditional architecture, and pond views.
Offers stunning views of olive orchards, the Seto Inland Sea, and surrounding islands.
Provides a panoramic view of Sanuki city and the surrounding countryside.
Food in Sanuki
Sanuki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
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!
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.
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.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sanuki better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
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).
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.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sanuki, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures, and by deferring to their opinions and decisions.
In Japanese culture, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a home or certain traditional establishments to maintain cleanliness and show respect for the space.
When dining in Sanuki, it is considered respectful to say 'itadakimasu' before a meal to express gratitude for the food, and 'gochisousama deshita' after finishing to show appreciation to the host or chef.
Safety
Tipping in Sanuki
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Sanuki, Japan. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries.
In Sanuki, Japan, cash is the preferred method of payment, and credit cards are also widely accepted. It is important to have enough cash on hand as some smaller establishments may not accept credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms and mild weather. Expect beautiful pink and white blooms across the city.
Great for outdoor activities and festivals. Expect warm weather and lively atmosphere.
Ideal for foliage viewing. Expect stunning red, orange, and yellow leaves across the city.
Perfect for hot springs and winter illuminations. Expect snow and festive atmosphere.
Sanuki at Night
Hiking in Sanuki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail that features lush greenery and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
A well-maintained trail leading to the historic Kannon-ji Temple, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
A park with various hiking paths surrounded by nature, ideal for families and casual hikers.
Several walking paths through the famous Ritsurin Garden, providing beautiful views of traditional Japanese landscaping and seasonal flowers.
A popular hiking destination that leads to the summit of Mount Yashima, offering a stunning view of Seto Inland Sea.
Aiports
How to reach Sanuki by plane.
Kagawa Airport is the nearest airport serving Sanuki, Japan. It offers domestic flights but limited international options.
Located approximately 65 kilometers from Sanuki, Okayama Airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Surrounded by the sea, Kansai International Airport is about 150 kilometers from Sanuki and serves numerous international destinations.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, it is around 150 kilometers from Sanuki, mainly serving domestic flights but with some international routes.
Hiroshima Airport is located approximately 160 kilometers from Sanuki, offering a variety of international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group, consisting of individuals who identify as Japanese citizens, encompassing various cultural and ethnic backgrounds within Japan.
A smaller demographic group, primarily consisting of Korean residents and descendants living in Sanuki.
This group includes individuals of Chinese descent, including migrants and their descendants in the area.
This demographic includes individuals from various other Asian nationalities, including Vietnamese and Filipino communities.
This group comprises expatriates and foreign workers from various countries living or working in Sanuki.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, including Sanuki, with a deep-rooted history and a large following in local schools and communities.
Soccer has gained immense popularity in Japan, particularly with the rise of the J-League. Sanuki has its local clubs and youth teams fostering talent.
Various martial arts are practiced in Sanuki, including Judo and Karate, which are integral to Japanese culture and education.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local leagues, enjoying a significant following among youth and young adults.
With beautiful natural landscapes, running is a popular recreational activity among residents, with many participating in local races and marathons.
Cycling is also favored in Sanuki, with accessible roads and scenic routes that encourage both casual cycling and competitive events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sanuki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Sanuki cuisine traditionally features a strong emphasis on seafood and meat, several establishments, especially in urban areas like Takamatsu, have started offering vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for restaurants and cafes that specialize in innovative plant-based creations or organic fare.
Visitors with gluten allergies or sensitivities can seek out specialized restaurants or communicate their dietary needs to chefs in advance. In some udon shops, it's possible to request gluten-free udon noodles made from alternative ingredients such as rice flour.