Fun Things to Do in Takamatsu | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Takamatsu Travel Guide
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Welcome to Takamatsu! Located on the island of Shikoku, Takamatsu is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine. As the capital of Kagawa Prefecture, this charming city offers a perfect blend of traditional and modern attractions. From exploring the historic Takamatsu Castle and the tranquil Ritsurin Garden to indulging in the world-famous Sanuki Udon noodles, there is something for everyone in this hidden gem of Japan. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, Takamatsu promises to leave you mesmerized with its unique blend of tradition and innovation. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to Takamatsu!
Takamatsu Travel Videos
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Things To Do In Takamatsu
Takamatsu offers a variety of things to do that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some main activities you can enjoy in Takamatsu:
1. Visit Ritsurin Garden: Explore one of Japan's most beautiful gardens, Ritsurin Garden. Stroll through its meticulously landscaped grounds, admire the scenic views, and relax in the peaceful atmosphere.
2. Explore Shikoku Mura: Immerse yourself in the region's cultural heritage by visiting Shikoku Mura, an open-air museum. Discover traditional houses, shrines, and artifacts that showcase the rich history of the area.
3. Take a trip to Naoshima Island: Known as the "Art Island," Naoshima is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Marvel at the contemporary art installations scattered throughout the island, including the famous Yayoi Kusama pumpkin.
4. Experience the Setouchi Triennale: If you're lucky enough to visit during this art festival, participate in the various art exhibitions and installations spread across the Seto Inland Sea islands. Enjoy the unique blend of art, nature, and local culture.
5. Visit Takamatsu Castle: Explore the historic Takamatsu Castle, which dates back to the 16th century. Climb to the top of the main tower for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
6. Indulge in Sanuki Udon: Takamatsu is famous for its delicious Sanuki Udon noodles. Taste this local specialty at one of the many udon shops scattered throughout the city. Savor the thick, chewy noodles and flavorful broth.
7. Take a boat tour of the Seto Inland Sea: Embark on a scenic boat tour to admire the stunning coastal landscapes and numerous islands of the Seto Inland Sea. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and breathtaking views.
8. Explore Shikoku Mura Village: Learn about traditional Japanese crafts and rural life at Shikoku Mura Village. Try your hand at pottery, weaving, or other traditional crafts under the guidance of skilled artisans.
Tours And Activities In Takamatsu
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Best Time To Visit Takamatsu
The best time to visit Takamatsu is during the spring and fall seasons. In spring, which is from March to May, the city is adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque and romantic atmosphere. The fall season, from September to November, offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage. Summers in Takamatsu can be hot and humid, while winters are mild but can be quite chilly. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid visiting during the summer months of June to August and the winter months of December to February.
Flight Calendar For Takamatsu
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Best Areas To Stay In Takamatsu
Takamatsu offers several great areas for accommodation.
1. Takamatsu City Center: This area is perfect for travelers who want to be in the heart of the city. It is home to many hotels, guesthouses, and hostels, making it convenient for tourists to explore the city's attractions such as Ritsurin Garden and Takamatsu Castle. The city center also offers a wide range of dining options, shopping centers, and entertainment venues.
2. Yashima: Yashima is a scenic area located on a hill overlooking the city. It is known for its beautiful views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding islands. Accommodation options in Yashima include traditional Japanese ryokans and modern hotels. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, visit the Yashima-ji Temple, and take part in cultural activities such as tea ceremonies.
3. Kotohira: Kotohira is a charming town located about 30 minutes away from Takamatsu. It is famous for its Kotohira-gu Shrine, which attracts many visitors each year. The area offers a peaceful and traditional atmosphere, with accommodation options ranging from ryokans to guesthouses. Kotohira is also known for its udon noodles, and visitors can enjoy trying different udon dishes in local restaurants.
4. Naoshima Island: Although not technically in Takamatsu, Naoshima Island is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. It is known for its contemporary art museums and installations, including the famous Benesse House Museum. Accommodation options on Naoshima Island include unique art-themed hotels and guesthouses. Staying on the island allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the art and culture of the area.
Overall, Takamatsu offers a variety of accommodation options in different areas, catering to the diverse preferences of travelers. Whether you prefer to stay in the city center, enjoy scenic views, explore traditional towns, or indulge in art and culture, Takamatsu has something for everyone.
Hotels Map Of Takamatsu
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Transportation To Takamatsu
There are several transportation options to Takamatsu.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Takamatsu is Takamatsu Airport (TAK), which is served by domestic flights from major cities in Japan. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach your destination in Takamatsu.
2. By Train: Takamatsu is well-connected by train. You can take a Shinkansen (bullet train) from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto to Okayama, and then transfer to a local train to reach Takamatsu. The journey takes around 2-3 hours from Okayama.
3. By Ferry: If you are coming from other parts of Japan, you can also take a ferry to Takamatsu. There are ferry services available from ports like Kobe, Osaka, and Hiroshima. The duration of the ferry ride varies depending on the departure point.
4. By Bus: There are also long-distance bus services available to Takamatsu from major cities in Japan. The bus journey may take longer compared to other modes of transportation, but it can be a more affordable option.
Once you arrive in Takamatsu, you can use local transportation options like buses, taxis, or rental cars to get around the city and explore its attractions.
Nearby Destination From Takamatsu
1. Kagawa: Known for its beautiful gardens and historic temples.
2. Okayama: Famous for its stunning castle and picturesque Korakuen Garden.
3. Kurashiki: A charming canal town with well-preserved Edo-era buildings.
4. Naoshima: An art lover's paradise, featuring contemporary art installations and museums.
5. Matsuyama: Home to the impressive Matsuyama Castle and rejuvenating Dogo Onsen.
6. Kotohira: Renowned for its ancient Shinto shrine, Kompira-san.
7. Takao: Offers breathtaking mountain views and serene hiking trails.
8. Marugame: Known for its impressive feudal-era castle and traditional Japanese pottery.
9. Shodoshima: Famous for its olive groves, stunning beaches, and delicious olive-based products.
10. Kotohira-cho: A quaint town with a rich cultural heritage, centered around the Kotohira-gu Shrine.