TAKAMATSU, JAPAN Travel Guide | Happy Trip
Located on the northern shore of Shikoku Island,
Takamatsu is the capital of Kagawa Prefecture and boasts the region’s most famous garden
as well as a rich cultural heritage. While Takamatsu may not attract
the crowds of cities like Kyoto or Osaka, it offers visitors a secluded environment, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves
in beautiful islands and discover Japan’s natural beauty. With its well-developed port facilities, Takamatsu functions
as a central access point to Shikoku and the Seto Inland Sea, serving as a major link for transportation,
tourism and economic activity. With easy access by train, it is an ideal destination for short visits from nearby cities like Okayama and Himeji. For those traveling by air, Takamatsu Airport
provides an additional point of access. Here are some of the top things to do in Takamatsu. Built in the Edo period, Ritsurin Garden features a
beautiful arrangement of ponds and man-made hills, inviting visitors to stroll and immerse themselves in its beauty. Covering an impressive 75 hectares, it is officially recognized as the largest Cultural Property Garden in Japan. It is also designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty
by the Japanese government. This garden has been rated three stars,
the highest rating in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, signifying its status as an extraordinary
and highly worthwhile destination. Despite its name meaning “chestnut grove,”
Ritsurin Garden is home to a vast collection of pine trees. With around 1,400 pines, 1,000 of which are
expertly pruned to maintain a bonsai-like shape. The grounds include several facilities, such as a gift shop, a café and teahouses where visitors can enjoy matcha
and sencha tea served with traditional sweets. The garden is beautifully framed by the stunning backdrop
of Mt. Shiun-zan, showcasing a picturesque landscape. You can enjoy the serene beauty of a Japanese boat ride
as it quietly cruises along the water. In our opinion, this garden stands out
as one of the best in all of Japan. We were completely captivated by its beauty. To get to Ritsurin Garden by train, head towards
the Kotoku Line at Takamatsu Station. Get to Platform 2. Get off at Ritsurin-Kōen-Kitaguchi Station.
It is only a 4-minute walk to the garden. A brief 5-minute walk from Takamatsu Station brings
visitors to the historic grounds of Takamatsu Castle Park. Takamatsu Castle, also known as Tamamo Castle,
is one of Japan’s few “water castles,” notable for its seawater moats
connected directly to the Seto Inland Sea. The castle’s expansive grounds are now a public park,
making it a great spot for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. A Japanese-style garden can also be found on the grounds, showcasing classic features such as
beautiful walking trails and manicured pine trees. Situated in the Seto Inland Sea,
Ogijima is a remote island with steep topography, reachable by a ferry ride lasting close to an hour. This small community has a population of only about 160 people. The island retains much of its traditional charm,
with narrow streets, old houses and scenic coastal views. The slower pace and laid-back lifestyle offer a sharp contrast to the vibrant city of Takamatsu, making it a perfect escape. The island is home to a population of stray cats,
often seen lounging around the village. One of the island’s prominent features is the Ogijima Lighthouse, where travelers can camp nearby and
enjoy the views of the surrounding waters. This is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Toyotama-hime,
the goddess of safe childbirth. The shrine is situated on a hill, offering panoramic views of the island, making it a tranquil spot for reflection. It is an important cultural landmark on the island, with historical significance and a peaceful atmosphere that attracts visitors seeking scenic experiences. The Walking Ark, is the most eye-catching art installation
and a must-see on Ogijima Island. This artwork represents resilience and protection
in response to the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. The Walking Ark showcases the blend of modern art with Ogijima’s natural and cultural landscape, making it an essential stop for art lovers. The island has other significant sites to visit, so feel free to explore and enjoy the experience at your own pace. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office in the ferry terminal at Takamatsu Port prior to departure. Thanks for watching and we’ll
see you on our next video.
Takamatsu, a laid-back coastal city in Japan’s Kagawa Prefecture, is a great spot for a mix of nature, history and island vibes. Start your trip with a stroll through Ritsurin Garden, a stunning traditional Japanese garden filled with ponds, walking paths and mountain views. Nearby, Takamatsu Castle Park offers a unique look at one of Japan’s few water castles, where you can walk around the old stone walls and enjoy the open green space. For a more tranquil escape, hop on a short ferry ride to Ogijima Island, a small, artsy island with charming narrow streets, local art installations and amazing sea views.
00:00 Introduction
01:01 Ritsurin Garden
Admission fees:
https://www.my-kagawa.jp/static/en/ritsurin/access
02:50 Takamatsu Castle Park
Admission fees:
http://www.takamatsujyo.com/annai.htm
03:34 Ogijima Island
Music Used:
Dusty Road Magic – Chris Haugen
1 Comment
Ritsurin has long been on my to do list.