Kagawa Travel Recommendations

Kagawa Prefecture is located on the island of Shikoku, in southern Japan. Known as the “Udon Prefecture” for its delicious udon noodles, Kagawa is a popular destination for foodies and travelers seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Here is an overview of Kagawa Prefecture, including how to get there from Tokyo, the best season to visit, and 10 must-see places.

How to Get to Kagawa from Tokyo

From Tokyo, the easiest way to get to Kagawa Prefecture is by taking a domestic flight to Takamatsu Airport. Alternatively, you can take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Okayama, and then transfer to the JR Yosan Line to Takamatsu. The journey takes about 4.5 hours in total.

Best Season to Visit Kagawa

The best time to visit Kagawa Prefecture is from late spring to early summer (May-June) or autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and comfortable. During these seasons, you can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling, without the crowds of peak summer or winter.

Must-See Places in Kagawa

Ritsurin Garden

Ritsurin Garden is a stunning Japanese-style garden located in Takamatsu. The garden features ponds, bridges, and traditional tea houses, and is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan.

Naoshima Island

Naoshima Island is a small island known for its contemporary art museums and installations. The island is accessible by ferry from Takamatsu, and is a must-visit for art lovers.

Shodoshima Island

Shodoshima Island is the second largest island in the Seto Inland Sea, and is known for its olive groves and beautiful scenery. The island is accessible by ferry from Takamatsu, and is a popular destination for hiking and cycling.

Kotohira-gu Shrine

Kotohira-gu Shrine is a famous Shinto shrine located in the town of Kotohira. The shrine is dedicated to the god of seafarers and travelers, and is known for its long staircase leading up to the main hall.

Yashima

Yashima is a mountain located just outside of Takamatsu. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area, and is a popular destination for hiking and sightseeing.

Sanuki Kid’s Kingdom

Sanuki Kid’s Kingdom is a theme park located in the town of Sanuki. The park features a range of rides and attractions for children, as well as a petting zoo and restaurant.

Marugame Castle

Marugame Castle is a historic castle located in the city of Marugame. The castle dates back to the 16th century, and is one of only 12 remaining original castles in Japan.

Kagawa Prefectural Museum of Culture

Kagawa Prefectural Museum of Culture is a museum located in Takamatsu. The museum features exhibitions on local history and culture, including traditional crafts and art.

Cuisines you can enjoy in Kagawa

Sanuki Udon

Sanuki Udon is a type of thick and chewy noodle that is a specialty of Kagawa Prefecture. It is made from a simple dough of flour, water, and salt, and is usually served with a variety of toppings such as tempura, grated daikon radish, and green onions. Sanuki Udon can be found in many restaurants throughout the prefecture, and there are even udon-making classes and workshops for those who want to try making it themselves.

Olive-fed Wagyu Beef

Kagawa Prefecture is home to a unique type of beef that is fed with olives instead of the traditional corn or barley. The result is a highly marbled and flavorful meat that is prized by food enthusiasts. Olive-fed Wagyu Beef can be found in many high-end restaurants in the prefecture, and is often served as a steak or in a hot pot.

Salt-grilled Fish

Kagawa Prefecture is surrounded by the Seto Inland Sea, which is rich in seafood such as mackerel, sea bream, and yellowtail. One popular way to prepare these fish is to grill them with just a sprinkle of salt. The salt brings out the natural flavors of the fish, and the crispy skin is a delight to eat.

Iyo Mandarin

Oranges: Iyo Mandarin Oranges are a sweet and juicy citrus fruit that is grown exclusively in Ehime Prefecture. They are known for their thin skin and easy-to-peel segments, and are often used in desserts and drinks. Iyo Mandarin Oranges can be found in many markets and shops throughout Kagawa Prefecture.

Shoyu (Soy Sauce)

Kagawa Prefecture is home to several soy sauce breweries that have been in operation for hundreds of years. The soy sauce produced in Kagawa is known for its deep and complex flavor, and is used in many local dishes such as Sanuki Udon and grilled fish. Visitors can take tours of the soy sauce breweries and learn about the production process, as well as sample different types of soy sauce.

Recommended Accommodations in Kagawa

Benesse House

Benesse House is a modern art museum and hotel complex located on the island of Naoshima. It offers luxurious rooms with stunning sea views, as well as access to the museum’s collection of contemporary art.

Rihga Hotel Zest Takamatsu

Rihga Hotel Zest Takamatsu is a luxury hotel located near the Takamatsu Castle Ruins. It offers spacious rooms with elegant decor, as well as a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

Setouchi Kojima Hotel

Setouchi Kojima Hotel is a beachfront hotel located on the coast of Kagawa Prefecture. It offers luxurious rooms with private balconies overlooking the sea, as well as access to a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking and fishing.

Shodoshima Grand Hotel Suimei

Shodoshima Grand Hotel Suimei is a traditional Japanese ryokan located on the island of Shodoshima. It offers spacious rooms with tatami flooring and stunning sea views, as well as access to a hot spring bath and traditional Japanese meals.

Takamatsu Tokyu REI Hotel

Takamatsu Tokyu REI Hotel is a modern hotel located in the center of Takamatsu city. It offers comfortable rooms with contemporary decor, as well as a variety of amenities such as a restaurant and massage services.

The Terrace Club at Busena

The Terrace Club at Busena is a luxury resort located on the island of Naoshima. It offers spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking the sea, as well as access to a variety of amenities such as a spa and golf course.

Umenoya

Umenoya is a traditional Japanese ryokan located in the town of Tonosho. It offers spacious rooms with tatami flooring and views of the surrounding mountains, as well as access to a hot spring bath and traditional Japanese meals.

Yumoto Konpira Onsen Hananoyu Koubaitei

Yumoto Konpira Onsen Hananoyu Koubaitei is a hot spring resort located in the town of Kotohira. It offers luxurious rooms with private hot spring baths, as well as access to a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.

Zentsuji Grand Hotel

Zentsuji Grand Hotel is a modern hotel located near the famous Zentsuji Temple. It offers spacious rooms with elegant decor, as well as access to a variety of amenities such as a restaurant and spa.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kagawa Prefecture is a beautiful and unique destination in Japan, offering a range of cultural and natural attractions for visitors to explore. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or cuisine, Kagawa has something to offer. From the stunning gardens of Ritsurin to the contemporary art of Naoshima Island, there is no shortage of must-see places in this prefecture.