Things To Do
in Takamatsu
Takamatsu is a vibrant city located on the island of Shikoku, Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful gardens. It serves as a gateway to the Seto Inland Sea and is famous for its udon noodles. The city combines modern amenities with traditional Japanese charm, making it an attractive destination for travelers.
Key attractions include Ritsurin Garden, Takamatsu Castle, and the bustling shopping streets of Marugame-machi.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens, where you can stroll through meticulously designed paths and enjoy the serene scenery.
After lunch at a local udon shop, head to Takamatsu Castle to explore its historic ruins and enjoy views of the surrounding area.
Dinner at a local izakaya followed by a stroll along the waterfront promenade to enjoy the sunset over the Seto Inland Sea.
Visit the Takamatsu City Museum of Art to appreciate contemporary art and local exhibitions before enjoying a light snack at a nearby café.
Take a ferry to the nearby island of Naoshima, renowned for its art installations and museums, including the famous Chichu Art Museum.
Return to Takamatsu for dinner at a seafood restaurant, sampling fresh catches from the Seto Inland Sea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Udon Noodle Bowl | $5 |
| 🍣Sushi Plate | $15 |
| 🍱Bento Box | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🚏Bus Ticket | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and historical sites.
- Delicious local cuisine, especially udon.
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
- Limited English signage in some areas.
- Public transport may have fewer options late at night.
- Less nightlife compared to larger Japanese cities.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "はい" - Yes
- "いいえ" - No
Places to Visit in Takamatsu
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the stunning landscapes, traditional bridges, and serene ponds within this historic garden.
Perfect for photographing the remnants of the castle with views of the Seto Inland Sea in the background.
A mountain offering breathtaking panoramic views of Takamatsu and the surrounding islands, especially beautiful at sunset.
Food in Takamatsu
Takamatsu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick, chewy wheat noodles typically served in a hot broth with various toppings.
Must-Try!
A local dish featuring soba noodles served with tempura and dipping sauce.
A rice bowl topped with fresh seafood, often featuring chirashi or grilled fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
A street lined with udon shops that offer various styles of this local noodle dish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bowing is a common greeting; politeness and humility are highly valued.
Always remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional accommodations.
Keep noise to a minimum on public transport and in public areas to show respect to others.
Safety
Tipping in Takamatsu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is expected without additional gratuity.
Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many places. It's advisable to carry yen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms bloom, particularly in March and April, making it a picturesque time to visit gardens.
Hot and humid; ideal for enjoying beaches and festivals, but be prepared for sudden rain showers.
Enjoy colorful foliage in October and November, especially in parks and temples.
Mild winters with occasional snowfall; a quieter time to explore Takamatsu's attractions.
Takamatsu at Night
Hiking in Takamatsu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail leading to the summit of Yashima Mountain, offering stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.
A moderate trail in the nearby Shiunzan Mountain area, featuring beautiful flora and panoramic landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Takamatsu by plane.
Located about 16 km from the city center, Takamatsu Airport offers domestic flights as well as some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Takamatsu's population consists of Japanese locals who take pride in their cultural heritage.
The city attracts both domestic and international tourists, especially those interested in art, history, and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is very popular in Japan, with local teams playing in the professional leagues.
Soccer also enjoys a significant following, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Takamatsu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prevalent, some restaurants offer vegetarian udon and soba options.
Gluten-free options may be limited; it's advisable to check with restaurants beforehand.