Kagawa

Japan, Asia

Kagawa, Japan's smallest prefecture, is famed for its rich cultural heritage, including the iconic Ritsurin Garden and the ancient temples of Shikoku’s pilgrimage route. Don’t miss sampling udon noodles in their birthplace and exploring Naoshima, the art island. Kagawa hosts vibrant festivals like the Shodo Island Lantern Festival, set against stunning coastal backdrops, making it a charming blend of nature, art, and delicious cuisine.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

District

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Takamatsu

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Kagawa

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Eat Udon Noodles

Savor Kagawa's famous Sanuki udon noodles, a must-try!

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Ritsurin Garden

Explore the stunning Japanese garden with scenic landscapes.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour Takamatsu Castle

Discover the historic Takamatsu Castle ruins and park.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Shodoshima Island

Visit Shodoshima for olive oil and beautiful scenery.

No booking required
5

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Setouchi Triennale

Experience contemporary art at this major art festival.

Booking required
6

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Kotohira-gu Shrine

Climb to the sacred shrine among beautiful mountain views.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience Yashima Temple

Visit the historical temple with panoramic views.

No booking required
8

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Naoshima Island

Discover modern art installations on this unique island.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Olive Park

Enjoy olive-related products and stunning ocean views.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend the Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium Events

Watch sports or cultural events in this large venue.

No booking required
11

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kagawa Museum

Explore exhibits on Kagawa's history and culture.

No booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Enjoy a Local Sake Brewery Tour

Taste and learn about traditional sake brewing.

Booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Shikoku Mura Open Air Museum

Experience traditional rural life in this outdoor museum.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Yen

Majority religion

Unaffiliated

Language

Japanese

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Curry Rice

Rice served with Japanese curry sauce. (National dish)

Sushi

Vinegared rice with raw fish or vegetables.

Ramen

Noodles in broth, often with meat or vegetables.

Tempura

Battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables.

Okonomiyaki

V

Savory pancake with various fillings and toppings.

Phrases to learn

English

Japanese

Hello

Konnichiwa

(Koh-nee-chee-wah)

Yes/No

Hai / Iie

(Hai / Ee-eh)

Thank you

Arigatou

(Ah-ree-gah-toh)

Excuse me

Sumimasen

(Soo-mee-mah-sen)

How much?

Ikura?

(Ee-koo-rah)