Contents
1.Basic Information
Kagawa Prefecture has many historical and scenic tourist spots such as Takamatsu Castle, Ritsurin Park, Yashima, and Marugame Castle. Kotohira-gu, known as the shrine of the sea god, is also a famous spot visited by many worshippers from all over the country.
Takamatsu Castle (Takamatujyo)
Facing the sea, Takamatsu Castle, along with Imabari Castle in Ehime Prefecture and Nakatsu Castle in Oita Prefecture, is known as one of Japan’s three great sea castles. The castle uses seawater from the Seto Inland Sea for its moat, which is home to many marine fish. Tourists can feed these fish. Although the main keep no longer exists, some historical sites and gardens have been preserved. The Takamatsu Castle ruins are maintained as Tamamo Park, where events such as cherry blossom viewing, a plant fair in spring, and a chrysanthemum exhibition in autumn are held.
Ritsurin Park (Riturinkouen)
Ritsurin Park, constructed about 300 years ago by the Matsudaira family, lords of Takamatsu, is known as an early Edo period strolling garden. The garden skillfully incorporates six ponds and thirteen artificial hills against the backdrop of Mount Shiun. Its unique landscaping technique integrates the external scenery into the garden. Recognized for its beauty, Ritsurin Park has been awarded three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.
Marugame Castle (Marugamejyo)
Completed in 1602, Marugame Castle took five years to build. It is one of the twelve existing wooden castle structures from before the Edo period. Notably, its stone walls, which are about 60 meters high, are famous for their beautiful curve known as the fan slope. Even after more than 400 years, the castle retains its unique style, harmoniously blending with nature.
Kotohira-gu (Konpirasan)
Kotohira-gu in Kotohira town, Kagawa Prefecture, is a shrine long cherished for its association with agriculture, industry, medicine, and maritime protection. The shrine is famous for its long staircase, with 785 steps to the main shrine and a total of 1368 steps to the inner shrine. Along the approach are the main gate and the shrine’s office, a national important cultural property. The precincts house various historical buildings like Asahi Shrine and a treasury exhibiting art and cultural properties. Souvenir shops and udon restaurants line the approach, and the site is also used for movie locations.
Yashima
Yashima is a famous scenic spot situated on a plateau 292 meters high. From the summit, one can view the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, Takamatsu city, and the Sanuki Mountains. Nearby attractions include Yashima Temple and the New Yashima Aquarium. Yashima Temple is said to have been founded by Jianzhen in 754 and later relocated by Kobo Daishi.
2.Reviews
Megijima
A 20-minute ferry ride from Takamatsu Port takes you to Megijima. At the summit of Washigamine in the center of the island is Onigashima Cave, a large cave said to have been inhabited by demons in the past, giving the island its nickname, Demon Island. In spring, about 3000 cherry trees on the island bloom, turning the island pink.
3.Local Food
4.Transportation Information
■How to Get to Kagawa Prefecture
ShikokuTourism Creation Organization Official Website (available in English, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and French)
https://shikoku-tourism.com/access
5.Map Information
