Kagawa Day Tour Kotohira Marugame and Udon

Explore the best of Kagawa on this full-day tour from Takamatsu, combining history, culture, scenic beauty, and local food. Visit the famous Kotohira-gu Shrine and climb its historic stone steps while enjoying beautiful views along the way. Afterward, enjoy a delicious Sanuki udon lunch at a popular local restaurant. The tour continues to Marugame Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining original castles, followed by a relaxing visit to Nakazu Bansho Garden, a traditional Japanese garden known for its peaceful atmosphere and seasonal scenery. You will also stop at Zentsu-ji Temple, the birthplace of Kobo Daishi and one of the most important temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Kagawa’s major highlights comfortably in one day.

1. 1

   Kotohira-gu Shrine

   3 hours

   Kotohira-gu Shrine is one of Japan’s most famous Shinto shrines, located in Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku Island. Known affectionately as “Konpira-san,” it has long been worshipped as a guardian of sailors and travelers. The shrine sits on the slopes of Mount Zozu and is famous for its long stone staircase—785 steps to the main hall and over 1,300 steps to the inner shrine. Walking up these steps is part of the experience, passing through traditional streets, forest paths, and historic shrine buildings. From the top, visitors are rewarded with beautiful views over the Sanuki Plain and the Seto Inland Sea. Kotohira-gu offers a unique mix of spiritual tradition, scenic nature, and cultural history, making it one of the most iconic pilgrimage destinations in Japan.

2. 2

   Marugame Castle

   1 hour

   Marugame Castle is one of Japan’s few remaining original castles, famous for its beautiful stone walls and panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea from the top. Enjoy a walk through the historic grounds and experience traditional Japanese castle culture.

3. 3

   Nakazubansho Garden

   1 hour

   Nakazu Bansho Garden is a peaceful traditional Japanese garden featuring beautiful ponds, seasonal flowers, and historic architecture. It offers a relaxing atmosphere where visitors can enjoy the elegance of Japanese landscape design and local history. This garden closes every Wednesdays, so we go to different spots if you book this tour on Wednesday.

4. 4

   Zentsu-ji Temple

   1 hour

   Zentsu-ji Temple is the birthplace of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, and one of the most important temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. Visitors can explore its historic grounds, impressive temple buildings, and peaceful spiritual atmosphere.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.