Kagawa Prefecture occupies the northeastern tip of Shikoku island, separated from the Chugoku region by the tranquil Seto Inland Sea. Japan's smallest prefecture by area is famous far beyond its modest geography: Sanuki udon noodles are practically a regional religion, the 785-step climb to Kotohira-gu Shrine is a pilgrimage milestone, Ritsurin Garden ranks among Japan's most beautiful stroll-style parks, and the art islands of Naoshima and Teshima have made this quiet sea route an international contemporary-art destination.
Kagawa is one of Japan's most accessible prefectures despite being on Shikoku island. The JR Marine Liner express train links Takamatsu to Okayama on Honshu in about one hour via the Seto Ohashi Bridge, making arrivals from Tokyo or Osaka straightforward without flying. Takamatsu Airport offers domestic flights. Within the prefecture, the Kotoden private railway, JR Shikoku lines, local buses, ferries to the Seto Inland Sea islands, and rental bicycles form a complete network.
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Buy an ICOCA IC card at Takamatsu Station — usable on JR trains, Kotoden, and most buses; eliminates need for cash at ticket machines
Ferry timetables to Naoshima and Teshima change seasonally; check benesse-artsite.jp or shikokuferry.co.jp before traveling
The Marine Liner from Okayama to Takamatsu does not require seat reservations and runs every 30 minutes
Driving is the most flexible option for rural udon shop touring; rent a car at Takamatsu Airport (Toyota Rent-a-Car: +81-87-814-7100)