Have Fun In Kagawa

Must Do Experiences

• Stroll through the meticulously landscaped Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan's most celebrated historical gardens.

• Climb the iconic stone steps of Kotohira-gu to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.

• Embark on a culinary adventure to taste authentic Sanuki Udon at local, highly-rated noodle shops across the prefecture.

• Take a scenic ferry ride to Shodoshima to explore its beautiful olive groves and dramatic coastal gorges.

Hidden Gems

• Visit the Shikoku Mura open-air museum, a lesser-known architectural park featuring beautifully preserved Edo and Taisho period farmhouses nestled in nature.

• Discover the tranquil Kotohiki Park in Kanonji, where you can see the famous coin-shaped sand art that is said to bring good fortune with money.

• Seek out the quirky contemporary art installations scattered around the Seto Inland Sea islands, blending modern creativity with serene coastal landscapes.

What Makes it Special

• Eliminates the stress of purchasing individual entry tickets, allowing for spontaneous and flexible itinerary changes on the go.

• Offers significant cost savings compared to paying standard admission fees at each separate cultural and historical site.

• Curates a well-rounded experience that seamlessly blends Kagawa's rich samurai history, natural beauty, and modern art scenes into one convenient package.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring and autumn are the most magical seasons to use your pass, offering mild weather and stunning cherry blossoms or vibrant foliage at Ritsurin Garden. Early mornings are highly recommended for popular spots like Kotohira-gu to beat the tour groups and enjoy a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere. Summer can be quite hot and humid, so plan indoor museum visits or coastal ferry rides during the midday peak heat.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the reflection of the pine trees and tea houses on the water at Ritsurin Garden during the soft, golden light of early morning.

• Head to the observation deck at Kotohira-gu just before sunset to photograph the sprawling Seto Inland Sea dotted with illuminated fishing boats.

• Always ask for permission before photographing monks, priests, or locals at rural shrines, and remember that flash photography is strictly prohibited inside historical museum exhibits.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting Shinto shrines like Kotohira-gu, remember to bow slightly before passing through the torii gate and purify your hands at the temizuya water pavilion. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, including at local udon restaurants and taxi services; instead, a polite bow and saying thank you is the best way to show appreciation. Dress modestly when entering sacred temple grounds, avoiding overly revealing clothing out of respect for the religious sites.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Experience the vibrant Takamatsu Autumn Festival in October, featuring spectacular taiko drum performances and traditional portable shrine parades.

• Visit during the Sanuki Toy Festival in spring to see giant, colorful carp streamers flying over the Kagawa countryside and enjoy local craft workshops.

• Enjoy the magical winter illuminations at Ritsurin Garden, where the historic landscape is beautifully lit up against the night sky from late November through December.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Stay hydrated and take frequent breaks if climbing the steep stone steps of Konpira-san, as the physical exertion can be intense during warmer months.

• Be mindful of narrow, winding roads and oncoming traffic when cycling or walking through rural coastal towns and forest paths.

• Keep an eye on the weather and ferry schedules if your pass includes island hopping, as strong winds in the Seto Inland Sea can occasionally cause sudden service cancellations.