Plan a CruiseTakamatsu, the largest city on Japan's Shikoku island and capital of Kagawa Prefecture, offers a convenient and engaging port experience for cruise passengers. Vessels up to 50,000 tonnes can dock directly at the new cruise port, which also serves as a ferry terminal. The berths are exceptionally close to the city center, eliminating the need for shuttle buses. This allows for easy access to key attractions and amenities within a short walk. The city is known for its award-winning Ritsurin Garden, historic Takamatsu Castle with its unique seawater moat, and the modern Takamatsu Symbol Tower.
Getting Around from the Port
The port's excellent location means you can easily walk to the city center. A significant portion of this walk is covered, leading directly to the main railway station (which has an information counter) and the tourist office. From there, a short additional walk brings you to the start of a major shopping arcade, which stretches for 2.7km, almost reaching Ritsurin Garden. Takamatsu is a very walkable city, making downtown navigation straightforward on foot.
For destinations beyond walking distance, the Kotoden tramway (a private railway) offers a convenient option. Its town station is located right next to Takamatsu Castle, just a short distance from the port. This tramway has three lines that connect to major sites, including Ritsurin Garden and the Shikoku Mura historic village. Day passes for travel are available at the station, with some options bundling site access. Bicycling is also a popular way to get around, with many rental locations available.
Attractions and Activities
- Ritsurin Garden: Considered one of Japan's finest gardens, this award-winning site features beautifully sculpted pine trees, perfect for bonsai enthusiasts. The garden is meticulously maintained year-round, except during the peak summer heat. It's accessible via the Kotoden tramway.
- Takamatsu Castle (Tamamo Park): Located east of the railway station and easily visible from your ship, this is a rare example of a coastal castle with a seawater moat. While the castle structure itself is not open, its formal park and gardens are well worth exploring. The Kotoden tramway station is conveniently located adjacent to the castle grounds. This site is easily walkable from the port.
- Takamatsu Symbol Tower: Standing as the tallest building in the Shikoku district since its construction in 2004, this tower offers multiple observation decks with expansive views of the sea and nearby peninsulas. The eastern building also houses a shopping mall and numerous restaurants.
- Yashima: A distinctive flat-topped mountain just outside Takamatsu's city center, Yashima holds historical significance as the site of a pivotal 12th-century battle during the Gempei War. It provides excellent panoramic views of Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea. Visitors can purchase small clay discs at mountaintop shops to throw off the mountain for good luck, symbolizing the victorious Minamoto warriors. Access is typically via the Kotoden tramway followed by a bus or taxi.
- Shikoku Mura Park and Historic Village: This open-air museum features traditional buildings from around Shikoku island. It's accessible via the Kotoden tramway.
Dining & Shopping
Takamatsu is renowned throughout Japan for its udon noodles, a must-try local specialty. You'll find hundreds of udon shops scattered across the city, offering a wide range of styles and flavors.
For shopping, the extensive 2.7km shopping arcade starts a short walk from the port and features numerous shops, including various side arcades. The Takamatsu Symbol Tower also houses a shopping mall with a selection of restaurants.
Safety
N/A
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Japanese Yen (¥), available in ¥10,000, ¥5,000, and ¥1,000 notes, as well as ¥500, ¥100, ¥50, ¥10, ¥5, and ¥1 coins. While major credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and larger establishments, Japan remains a cash-centric society, especially in more rural settings. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash, as some shops, hotels, and restaurants may not accept credit cards regardless of their location. ATMs are increasingly useful for international withdrawals and can be found at post offices. Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be considered rude. For communication, Takamatsu City provides free public Wi-Fi service known as "Kagawa Wi-Fi."