Top Things to Do in Takamatsu, Japan | 8K 360° Virtual Tour of Castles & Gardens

Top Things to Do in Takamatsu, Japan | 8K 360° Virtual Tour of Castles & Gardens

Step into the heart of Takamatsu, a historic coastal city in Japan’s Shikoku region, through this immersive 8K 360° virtual tour. From majestic castle ruins to one of Japan’s most exquisite landscaped gardens, this video captures the essence of Takamatsu’s charm, elegance, and serenity.

Walk over the moat at the Sayabashi Bridge, explore the historic grounds of Takamatsu Castle Park, and marvel at the architectural elegance of the Hiunkaku Villa. Then, drift into the tranquility of Ritsurin Garden, a cultural masterpiece filled with koi ponds, tea houses, and scenic trails. If you’re planning a visit to Shikoku or love peaceful Japanese scenery, this is the perfect visual guide.

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📌 Timestamps:
00:00 Highlights
00:26 Sayabashi bridge – Takamatsu Castle Ruins
00:52 Takamatsu Castle Park 史跡高松城跡玉藻公園
02:06 Tsukimi-Yagura Turret 月見櫓
02:25 Hiunkaku 披雲閣
03:06 Ritsurin Garden 栗林公園
04:09 Ritsurin Garden Lake and Fishes
05:22 Hokko 北湖

✈️ Tag along on my travels:

📕 In-Depth Guide
00:26 Sayabashi Bridge – Takamatsu Castle Ruins
Once connecting the sea to the castle grounds, the Sayabashi Bridge is a rare example of a roofed wooden bridge over seawater, blending defensive strategy with elegant design. This unique structure is a symbol of Takamatsu’s samurai past, part of the now-ruined Takamatsu Castle, one of only a few Japanese castles originally built on the coast.

00:52 Takamatsu Castle Park 玉藻公園
Known as Tamamo Park, this site preserves the remains of Takamatsu Castle, originally built in 1590. Though much of the castle was destroyed during the Meiji period, you can still see restored moats, stone walls, and a peaceful garden setting. The surrounding grounds are perfect for a quiet walk, with panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.

02:06 Tsukimi-Yagura Turret 月見櫓
Meaning “moon-viewing turret,” this structure was used to watch the moon rise over the sea. It reflects a more poetic, reflective side of samurai culture. Though reconstructed, it retains the charm of Edo-period design, sitting gracefully atop the old castle walls.

02:25 Hiunkaku 披雲閣
This graceful Meiji-era villa once hosted visiting dignitaries and now serves as a cultural hall. The architecture fuses Western and Japanese styles, with spacious tatami rooms and garden views. Surrounded by pine trees and moats, it offers a glimpse into Takamatsu’s elite past.

03:06 Ritsurin Garden 栗林公園
A masterpiece of landscape architecture, Ritsurin Garden is one of Japan’s finest daimyo (feudal lord) gardens. Built over centuries, it features beautifully curated ponds, bridges, teahouses, and manicured pine trees. It’s especially stunning in the early morning, when light hits the surface of the central lake.

04:09 Ritsurin Garden Lake and Fishes
The garden’s koi ponds are filled with vibrant, healthy fish that swim under picturesque bridges and alongside traditional boats. Feed the koi or simply enjoy their dance beneath the water’s surface as part of this serene experience.

05:22 Hokko 北湖
Often missed by casual visitors, the North Lake section of Ritsurin Garden is more expansive and secluded. Surrounded by walking trails and seasonal flowers, it offers tranquil views and space for reflection, especially in spring and autumn.