Make the most of your time in Takamatsu with a flexible half-day tour tailored to your interests. The serene Ritsurin Garden, the historic Takamatsu Castle ruins, or the bustling shopping arcade full of local charm. Prefer a more relaxed pace? You can focus on two deeper experiences—like enjoying the seasonal beauty of Ritsurin Garden followed by a visit to a beloved local udon shop in the Symbol Tower building.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Takamatsu port or JR Takamatsu station
- If you require pickup from your hotel, please note that transportation costs will apply.
Ritsurin Garden
Immerse yourself in one of Japan’s finest traditional gardens, awarded three stars by the Michelin Guide. Stroll through its beautifully landscaped paths or glide across the serene waters on a traditional boat, discovering breathtaking views at every turn. Pause at an elegant teahouse to savor matcha and delicate sweets, embracing a moment of tranquility in this timeless setting.
Takamatsu castle ruin
Takamatsu Castle, one of Japan’s celebrated 'Three Great Water Castles,' offers a unique glimpse into history. As we walk toward the castle tower ruins, you’ll be rewarded with scenic views of the surrounding landscape and the Seto Inland Sea. Along the way, you'll gain insight into how this vital waterway has shaped the region’s defense, culture, and transportation since ancient times.
Quick Sanuki Udon Lunch at Symbol Tower
For a taste of local life, we’ll enjoy a quick, self-picked Sanuki udon lunch at one of the casual eateries inside Symbol Tower, conveniently located near the station. Sanuki udon, with its firm, chewy noodles and flavorful broth, is a beloved local specialty and a staple of Kagawa’s food culture. Originally popularized as a fast, affordable, and satisfying meal for busy workers and students, udon has become a proud symbol of Takamatsu’s culinary identity. Feel free to choose your favorite toppings and style—hot or cold, simple or with tempura—for a personalized, delicious experience.
Panoramic Views from the Symbol Tower Observatory
We’ll wrap up the tour with a relaxing visit to the free observatory on the 29th floor of Symbol Tower. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Takamatsu city, the calm Seto Inland Sea, and nearby islands—an ideal spot to reflect on the day’s discoveries. It’s a peaceful, uncrowded space where you can take in the city from above and snap a few memorable photos before the tour ends.
Ending Point
Takamatsu port or JR Takamatsu station
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
guide fee, hotel pick-up (If your hotel is located in the central area of Takamatsu city)
・Transportation Fee (you and the guide)
Estimated Taxi Fare:
From JR Takamatsu Station or Takamatsu Port to Ritsurin Garden:¥1,600~
Note: A regular taxi can accommodate up to 4 people, including the guide. For larger groups, we will need to arrange a jumbo taxi or additional vehicles.
Train Fare (if using Kotoden):
From Takamatsu-Chikko Station to Ritsurin-Koen Station: ¥210 per person
・lunch (you and the guide)
Admission Fees:
・Ritsurin Garden: ¥410 per person, Boat Ride, ¥620/person *optional
Teahouse with tea and sweets, ¥500~700 /person *optional
・Tamamo Park (Takamatsu Castle): ¥200 per adult (age 16 and over), ¥100 per child (ages 6–15)
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
My name is Mika, a local guide living in Takamatsu city. I have been an English teacher, but the Setouchi International Art Festival awakened me to the joy of guiding. The more I learn about the Seto Inland Sea region, the more I am impressed by its life, history, architecture and art works. So, I would like to show you the spectacular scenery that you may have missed in guidebooks alone, and the sights that have yet to be introduced in guidebooks.
In Kagawa Prefecture, island tours are also very popular, such as Naoshima, Teshima, and Inujima, which are sacred places for contemporary art, and I think you can better understand the connection between the history of the islands and art by touring with a guide.
Of course, I would also like to introduce fresh harvest from the Seto Inland Sea, delicious local food, and shopping for folk crafts in the Takamatsu shopping arcade, which will satisfy you fully as a highlight of your journey.
Betty C.
“Lovely trip to Shodoshima ”
Mika is an amazing, accommodating, and thoughtful guide. She came up with a great itinerary that balanced key points of interest of Shodoshima with works of art for Setouchi Triennale, which was what I requested. She communicates often before the trip and even after to share recommendations, etc. I highly recommend Mika as a guide.
Mika S.
Thank you so much for your warm review! I’m truly honored to have introduced you to some of the artworks of Setouchi Triennale 2025, along with the nature, community, and craftsmanship of soy sauce and olives on Shodoshima. Please come back during the colorful fall season to enjoy more art and explore the other side of the island. Whenever your travels bring you near Far East Asia, you are always welcome. Mika
Kevin M.
“Great Takamatsu tour ”
Mika met us and dropped us off at our cruise ship! We spent 2-3 hours in Ritsurin Gardens , biggest in Japan ! Quite beautiful and we did tea with Mika! We had Oudon noodles for lunch and visited the Yashima temple and Takamatsu castle. It was a great day spent with Mika a retired teacher. Thank you Mika ! Kevin & Lisa , Rich & Cindy
Mika S.
Thank you for your wonderful review! I’m so glad you had the chance to explore the highlights of Takamatsu at a leisurely pace. Spending the day with such delightful company and engaging in lively conversation made the experience even more enjoyable. Wishing you smooth and memorable travels at every port! Mika
Charles S.
“Lovely Guide, Lovely Day”
Mika listened to our preferences and planned a delightful day for us that was amply filled but not overwhelming. Her English is excellent and her local knowledge was impressive. Thank you for a memorable visit!
Mika S.
I am deeply thankful for your warm words. I truly had a wonderful day with you both. It was a pleasure to see you enjoy the local shops, restaurants, and historical sites! Wishing you the rest of your journey filled with enjoyable memories. Mika
$139/ per group