Things To Do
in Takamatsu
Takamatsu is a vibrant city located on the island of Shikoku in Japan. It is known for its historic sites such as Ritsurin Garden, a beautifully landscaped park dating back to the 17th century. The city is also famous for its udon noodles, a local culinary specialty that attracts food enthusiasts from all over Japan.
Takamatsu is a modern metropolis with a bustling shopping district, museums, and art galleries, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary attractions for visitors to enjoy.
- "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 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan's most famous gardens. Enjoy a peaceful stroll while admiring the beautiful landscapes and historic tea houses.
Head to the Tamamo Park and explore the ruins of Takamatsu Castle. Don’t forget to visit the local shops and try some delicious Sanuki udon noodles for lunch.
In the evening, take a sunset cruise around Takamatsu Bay for stunning views. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, savoring fresh seafood.
Begin your day with a visit to the Udon Museum to learn about the history and culture of this beloved noodle. Participate in an udon-making workshop for a fun and interactive experience.
Enjoy a hearty bowl of udon at a local shop, sampling various styles and toppings. Take a leisurely walk through the shopping streets filled with unique souvenirs.
Visit a local izakaya for a casual dining experience and taste a variety of Japanese dishes. Engage with locals and share your experiences while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and temples.
- Beautiful coastal scenery and gardens, including Ritsurin Garden.
- Famous for its unique local cuisine, especially Sanuki udon.
- Friendly atmosphere and welcoming locals.
- Access to nearby islands and nature, perfect for outdoor activities.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities in Japan.
- Transportation options may be less frequent than in major urban areas.
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers might pose challenges.
- Relatively smaller city size may not offer as many entertainment options.
- Weather can be humid during summer months, which may be uncomfortable for some.
Best Activities in Takamatsu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A traditional Japanese garden with ponds, bridges, and walking paths.
An open-air museum with historic buildings and traditional crafts.
A hill with a panoramic view of Takamatsu and the surrounding Seto Inland Sea.
A historic castle and park with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.
Take a ferry ride to nearby islands such as Naoshima or Shodoshima for outdoor exploration.
Tours
Uncover the best of Takamatsu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Takamatsu
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic garden with beautiful landscaping and traditional architecture, offering panoramic views and photo opportunities.
A mountain with stunning views of Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea, providing great photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
A traditional village museum featuring old houses and buildings set in a picturesque landscape, ideal for capturing unique photos.
Food in Takamatsu
Takamatsu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish made of thick wheat noodles served in a savory broth, often topped with green onions, tempura, or raw egg. Head to Nakano Udon School or Yamamotoya for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Don't miss the opportunity to savor traditional Japanese sweets at a tea house within the Ritsurin Garden. Indulge in wagashi (traditional Japanese confections) paired with matcha tea amidst the serene garden atmosphere.
Takamatsu's proximity to the sea ensures ultra-fresh seafood. Try the locally caught squid prepared as sushi at renowned sushi spots like Hamachan or Kura-Zushi.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Takamatsu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling shopping street offers a variety of street food stalls where you can sample takoyaki (octopus balls), karaage (fried chicken), and other Japanese festival favorites.
A food lover's paradise with numerous small eateries serving up local specialties and street food. Don't miss the chance to try a diverse array of dishes in one location.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Takamatsu, it is customary to bow slightly when greeting someone as a sign of respect.
It is considered polite to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments in Takamatsu.
Japanese people value personal space, so be mindful of maintaining an appropriate distance when interacting with others in Takamatsu.
Safety
Tipping in Takamatsu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Takamatsu. In fact, tipping is often considered rude or unnecessary in Japanese culture. Service fees are usually included in the bill at restaurants and hotels, so tipping is generally not expected or required.
In Takamatsu, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the preferred method of payment. Credit and debit cards are not as widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It's always a good idea to have enough cash on hand when visiting Takamatsu to ensure smooth transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for the cherry blossom season, mild weather, and blooming flowers
Warm and humid weather, ideal for the Naoshima Art Island and beach activities
Pleasant weather, beautiful fall foliage, and the Setouchi Triennale art festival
Cool weather, fewer tourists, and scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea
Takamatsu at Night
Hiking in Takamatsu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A mountain with scenic views overlooking Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea, popular for hiking and historical sites.
A mountain known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and a picturesque hiking trail.
A coastal hiking trail that offers views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes, ideal for a leisurely hike.
A hiking trail that follows the historic railway line through beautiful natural scenery and local attractions.
A relatively easy hike with rewarding views from the summit, suitable for families and casual hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Takamatsu by plane.
Located in Osaka, approximately 160 km from Takamatsu, this airport serves as a major international gateway in Japan.
Located in Okayama, about 70 km from Takamatsu, this airport offers both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Hiroshima, approximately 140 km from Takamatsu, this airport serves international and domestic flights.
Located near Tokyo, about 800 km from Takamatsu, this is one of the primary international airports in Japan.
Also in Tokyo, about 800 km from Takamatsu, Haneda Airport is one of the busiest airports with many international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Takamatsu, encompassing the majority of the population.
Includes various expatriates and nationals from different countries living in Takamatsu, such as Brazilians, Chinese, and Koreans.
An increasing demographic in Takamatsu, reflecting a broader trend in Japan, where elderly individuals (65 and older) constitute a significant portion of the community.
Represents younger individuals typically aged 18 to 34, who may include university students and young professionals.
This group includes school-aged children and teenagers, normally comprising those under 18 years of age.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular sport in Takamatsu, with local clubs and youth teams actively participating in competitions.
Baseball has a strong following in Takamatsu, with numerous schools and amateur teams playing regularly.
Basketball is widely played in Takamatsu, featuring both recreational and competitive leagues.
Volleyball is popular in Takamatsu, especially in schools and community centers, hosting various tournaments.
Badminton is commonly played in Takamatsu, with many clubs and facilities available for both casual and competitive play.
Running events and marathons are frequently held in Takamatsu, promoting fitness and community engagement.
Sports such as sumo and kendo are also part of the local culture, with clubs and events dedicated to these traditional practices.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Takamatsu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood, several restaurants in Takamatsu offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for cafes and restaurants with marked vegetarian options or those specializing in plant-based cuisine.
Though gluten-free options may be limited in some traditional eateries, many modern establishments in Takamatsu are becoming more accommodating to gluten-free diets. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to ensure a satisfying dining experience.