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.
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 Takamatsu
morning:Start your day with a visit to Ritsurin Garden, a beautiful landscape garden featuring traditional Japanese design. Take a stroll through its numerous ponds and tea houses. Consider having a traditional Japanese breakfast at Hanada, a cozy local restaurant known for its authentic cuisine.
afternoon:Head to the nearby Shikoku Mura folk village to learn about the history and culture of Shikoku. Explore the recreated traditional buildings and take part in hands-on activities. For lunch, indulge in some udon noodles at Yamamotoya, a renowned udon shop in Takamatsu.
evening:For the evening, go to Yashima and take the ropeway up to enjoy panoramic views of Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea. Afterward, head to the lively Yashima Night Market for a variety of street foods and local crafts.
Art and History
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Art House Project, an architectural art installation featuring houses renovated by contemporary artists. Get a glimpse of the artists' interpretations and enjoy a delightful brunch at Cafe Etoile nearby.
afternoon:Explore the Takamatsu City Museum located in the historical Tamamo Park to discover the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Stop by the museum's café for a relaxing afternoon tea.
evening:For the night, head to the Yashima District to experience the colorful lights and creative displays in the Yashima Art Museum. Later, enjoy a lively atmosphere and delicious drinks at Bar Virgo known for its eclectic decor and friendly ambiance.
Island Adventure
morning:Catch a ferry to Shodoshima Island, known for its olive trees and stunning coastal views. Start your day with a refreshing hike to Kanka Gorge and enjoy the cascading waterfalls and lush greenery. Before that, don't miss breakfast at Olive Kitchen, a charming café overlooking the olive groves.
afternoon:Discover the beauty of Shodoshima's coastline with a visit to Angel Road, a natural sandbar that appears during low tide, connecting three small islands. Enjoy a seaside lunch at the Shodoshima Olive Park's restaurant offering a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea.
evening:As the day draws to a close, head to the Kankakei Ropeway for a breathtaking sunset over the Seto Inland Sea. Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner at Olivean, a restaurant renowned for its gourmet Shodoshima-inspired cuisine.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Immerse in the rich cultural heritage of Takamatsu with a visit to the historic Zentsuji Temple, one of the oldest and most revered temples in the region. Participate in a morning meditation session and then savor a traditional Japanese breakfast at Seifuan, a nearby restaurant known for its serene atmosphere.
afternoon:Stroll through the lively streets of Takamatsu to explore the bustling shopping arcades and authentic local markets. Grab a quick bite for lunch at Marugame Seimen, a renowned udon restaurant offering a wide selection of udon noodles.
evening:For a memorable evening, head to Sunport Takamatsu, a modern waterfront district featuring stylish bars and restaurants. Enjoy a relaxing dinner and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the harbor area overlooking the illuminated cityscape.
Takamatsu Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Sanuki Udon
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!
Ritsurin Koen Tea House Sweets
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.
Squid Sushi
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.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Takamatsu Marugamemachi Shotengai
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.
Furusato Yataimura
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.
Pet sitters in Takamatsu
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!