Exploring the Cultural Wonders of Shikoku Island

Tranquility and Tradition in Takamatsu

Today was a day of serene beauty and historical exploration here in Takamatsu. Leaving behind the hustle of city life, my friends and I ventured into the heart of Shikoku's cultural landscape. From meticulously designed gardens to a village brimming with history, it was an immersive experience that offered a deeper understanding of Japan's rich heritage. It was a day that reminded me why I love travelling – the chance to step back in time and appreciate the artistry of generations past.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Munagin. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and an assortment of pickled vegetables. It was a delicious and energizing start to what promised to be a day filled with exploration. Aisha would have loved this place, with its authentic vibe and the dedication to local culinary traditions.


Experience the authentic taste of Japan at Munagin - a premier destination for unagi lovers in Nankoku.

Ritsurin Garden: A Stroll Through Paradise

Our first stop was the famed Ritsurin Garden, a sprawling landscape that dates back to the Edo period. As someone who appreciates the blend of nature and art, I was immediately captivated by the garden's meticulous design. The garden is expansive, covering 75 hectares, and features six ponds and thirteen landscaped hills. It is considered one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens.

Explore the tranquil beauty of Ritsurin Garden, a historical gem in Takamatsu, showcasing Japan's exquisite landscape design and seasonal charm.

Wandering through the garden with my friends, we were surrounded by meticulously manicured trees, serene ponds, and carefully arranged rock formations. The attention to detail was astounding; every element seemed to be placed with intention, creating a harmonious blend of nature and art. The garden is designed as a strolling garden, offering new views with each step.

One of the highlights was the Kikugetsutei Teahouse, where we paused for a traditional matcha tea. Sipping the tea while overlooking Nanko Pond, the south pond, was an experience in itself. The gentle breeze, the soft rustling of leaves, and the quiet murmur of fellow visitors created an atmosphere of perfect tranquility.

In Ritsurin Garden, every step is a journey through a meticulously crafted landscape, where nature and art intertwine to create a serene and unforgettable experience.

The garden's beauty is enhanced by the backdrop of Mount Shiun, which acts as a natural extension of the landscape. This technique, known as borrowed scenery, adds depth and grandeur to the garden. I couldn't help but think how Ethan would have loved running around the open spaces, discovering hidden pathways and marveling at the koi fish in the ponds.

We explored on foot. I’d also recommend stopping at Kikugetsutei Teahouse for a matcha break while looking out over Nanko, the south pond. Taking a long stroll in this mesmerizing and peaceful garden was definitely one of the highlights of my stay in Takamatsu!

Ritsurin Garden is particularly beautiful in spring with cherry blossoms and in autumn with colorful foliage. There is a large carp pond where you can feed the fish from the shore and delicate stepping stones on the water. Along with scenic bridges and sea of green, you'll also find a waterfall and lotus pond.

Shikoku Village: A Step Back in Time

After immersing ourselves in the beauty of Ritsurin Garden, we journeyed to Shikoku Village, an open-air museum showcasing restored buildings from across Shikoku Island. This museum offers a glimpse into rural life in Shikoku from the Edo period to the Taisho era.

Explore the enchanting Shikoku Village, an open-air museum in Takamatsu, where tradition meets nature in a captivating cultural experience.

As we wandered through the village, we encountered traditional farmhouses, warehouses, and even a kabuki stage, each structure telling a story of a bygone era. The simplicity of the buildings, devoid of elaborate carvings, highlighted the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people who once inhabited them.

Crossing the rope bridge was a fun little adventure, and the Shikoku Mura gallery, designed by Tadao Ando, was a striking contrast to the traditional buildings. The gallery featured a collection of sculptures, Buddhist statues, and paintings, providing a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the region.

I found myself particularly drawn to the soy sauce brewery, where we learned about the traditional methods of soy sauce production. It was fascinating to see how simple ingredients could be transformed into such a flavorful and essential component of Japanese cuisine.

Shikoku Village displays homestays and daily necessities from the Edo to Taisho eras. There are 33 houses scattered throughout the scenic area, and there is an art gallery designed by Tadao Ando in the middle. There are traditional industrial facilities such as houses and daily utensils that allow you to understand ancient life, and soy sauce breweries. There are also traces of the stage where local residents transformed themselves into Kabuki actors and performed Rural Kabuki.

Afternoon Delights and Evening Reflections

For lunch, we stopped at Joyfull Kochi Otsu Shop, a family-friendly restaurant known for its diverse menu. While it might not have been the most traditional choice, it offered a comforting and familiar array of dishes that satisfied everyone's cravings. I opted for a hearty bowl of ramen, while my friends enjoyed tempura and pizza. It was a casual and relaxed meal that provided a welcome break from our explorations.

Enjoy a diverse menu at Joyfull Kochi Otsu Shop, where family-friendly dining meets affordable prices in the heart of Kochi.

Before heading back, we made a quick stop at Plugs Market Kochi Store. Although I didn't find anything specific to buy, it was interesting to browse the local products and get a sense of the everyday lives of the people in Kochi.

Explore the vibrant Plugs Market Kochi Store for unique gifts, trendy cosmetics, and eclectic home goods in the heart of Kochi.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Amekaze Shokudo for dinner. This small restaurant, tucked away in Kochi city, exuded a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The daily set menu featured seasonal vegetables and local ingredients, prepared with care and attention. It was a comforting and satisfying meal that provided a perfect end to our day of exploration.

Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Amekaze Shokudo, where delightful dishes meet stunning views of rice fields in Nankoku.

The Sanuki Takamatsu Festival takes place from August 12 to August 14, featuring dance performances and fireworks.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Otsuka Museum of Art and the Kurushima Strait Observatory. I'm particularly excited about the museum, as I've heard great things about its collection of Western art masterpieces. The observatory promises stunning views of the Kurushima Strait, and I'm looking forward to capturing some memorable photos. Maybe we'll even find a nice bar like Bar Salvador to wind down in the evening.

Today was a reminder of the beauty and tranquility that can be found in unexpected places. As I reflect on the day's experiences, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this unique corner of Japan. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, offering a chance to connect with different cultures, appreciate the beauty of the natural world, and create lasting memories with friends.

I am also mindful of the Setouchi Triennale, a contemporary art festival held every three years on the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, which has been expanded to include the coastal towns of Shido, Tsuda, Hiketa, and Utazu, bringing the total number of participating areas to 17. Also, the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan will be held with special events.