Kagawa: Ritsurin Garden Guided Walking Tour

Takamatsu , Japan

Kagawa: Ritsurin Garden Guided Walking Tour

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu stands as a premier example of Japanese historic garden design, showcasing the artistry of daimyo gardens. During this guided tour, visitors stroll through the lush landscape, revealing ponds, bridges, and carefully pruned trees along a scenic route. An expert guide shares the rich history and design principles of Japanese gardens, highlighting key features like the Hiraiho viewpoint and the iconic raised-root pine. A delightful tea break at Kikugetsu-tei adds a cultural touch, allowing guests to enjoy matcha while soaking in the serene surroundings. Choose between a local meeting point or a guided train journey from Takamatsu Station for a flexible experience.

- Explore the exquisite Ritsurin Garden, a masterpiece of Japanese design
- Learn about the historical significance and aesthetics of daimyo gardens
- Enjoy matcha at Kikugetsu-tei, surrounded by stunning views
- Flexible meeting options available for convenience, including local train travel

Available options

From Takamatsu Station

From Takamatsu Station<br/>Starting point:<br/>Takamatsukita Police Station Takamatsu Ekimae Police Box, 1-18 Hamanochō, Takamatsu, Kagawa 760-0011, Japan

Local Meeting

Local Meeting<br/>Starting point:<br/>East Gate（Kittegomon）, 1-chōme-20-1 Ritsurinchō, Takamatsu, Kagawa 760-0073, Japan

What's included

Matcha tea experience at a garden teahouse

English-speaking guide

Admission to Ritsurin Garden

Optional guided train access from Takamatsu Station (if selected)

Guided walk through Ritsurin Garden

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Ritsurin Garden, located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, is considered one of Japan’s finest historic gardens and a masterpiece of daimyo garden design. Developed over several centuries by the lords of the Takamatsu Domain, the garden is designed as a strolling landscape, where carefully composed views unfold step by step along winding paths. Featuring scenic ponds, artificial hills, bridges, and meticulously maintained pine trees, Ritsurin Garden showcases key techniques of traditional Japanese garden design, including miniature landscape representation and borrowed scenery that incorporates the surrounding mountains. More than a place of visual beauty, the garden reflects the cultural values, aesthetic sensibilities, and political background of the samurai era, offering visitors a refined and immersive experience of classical Japanese landscape art.

Kikugetsu-tei is a traditional teahouse located within Ritsurin Garden and one of the garden’s most atmospheric architectural features. Originally built as a place for receiving guests and enjoying refined leisure, the teahouse offers carefully framed views of the surrounding garden, where ponds, pine trees, and seasonal scenery are appreciated in quiet harmony. Visitors can enjoy a matcha tea experience here, allowing them to pause and take in the landscape as it was intended to be seen—seated, unhurried, and attentive to detail. The combination of tea, architecture, and garden scenery provides a calm and authentic introduction to Japanese aesthetics and the cultural role of teahouses within historic gardens.

What's not included

Meals other than tea break

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

As this tour involves walking through the garden, it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Meeting point

If you select the Takamatsu Station meeting option:
Please meet in front of the Takamatsu North Police Station, Takamatsu Station Police Box. Your guide will be waiting for you holding a yellow sign. Please refer to the map for detailed directions.

About Takamatsu

Takamatsu is a coastal city in Kagawa Prefecture, known for its beautiful gardens, historic castles, and delicious udon noodles. The city offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern attractions, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Takamatsu Castle

Also known as Tamamo Castle, this historic castle offers beautiful views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. The castle grounds are a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Ritsurin Garden

One of Japan's most famous gardens, Ritsurin Garden is a beautiful blend of traditional Japanese landscaping and natural beauty. The garden features ponds, bridges, and historic tea houses.

Nature 2-3 hours ¥410

Yashima

A scenic plateau offering stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding islands. Yashima is also known for its historic significance and beautiful natural landscapes.

Nature 2-3 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sanuki Udon

Thick, chewy wheat noodles served in a variety of broths and toppings. A must-try specialty of Takamatsu.

Main dish Vegetarian options available

Tamanegi

Sweet and savory onions, a popular side dish in Takamatsu.

Side dish Vegetarian

Oysters

Fresh oysters from the Seto Inland Sea, often grilled or served raw.

Seafood Gluten-free, but check for allergens

Popular Activities

Hiking on Yashima Cycling around the city Kayaking in the Seto Inland Sea Visiting Ritsurin Garden Beach relaxation at Katahinahama Spa and onsen experiences Exploring Takamatsu Castle Visiting Kompira-san Shrine

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. The cherry blossom season in April and the autumn foliage in November are particularly beautiful.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Takamatsu is a very safe city with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, travelers should always take basic precautions to protect their belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi services and check fares before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Takamatsu Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Takamatsu Station

By bus

Takamatsu Station Bus Terminal, Central Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Takamatsu. Buses are frequent and cover most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Marunouchi Katahinahama Yashima-cho

Day trips

Kotohira

20 km from Takamatsu • Half day

A small town known for its historic Kompira-san Shrine, a significant Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of theater and commerce.

Naoshima

20 km from Takamatsu • Full day

A small island in the Seto Inland Sea known for its contemporary art museums and installations, including works by famous artists like Yayoi Kusama and James Turrell.

Shikoku Pilgrimage

Varies • Multi-day

A famous pilgrimage route covering 88 Buddhist temples across Shikoku Island. Many travelers choose to walk parts of the route for its spiritual and cultural significance.

Festivals

Takamatsu Udon Festival • November Takamatsu Matsuri • July Kotohira Matsuri • April

Pro tips

Visit Ritsurin Garden early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Try different types of udon at local specialty shops to find your favorite.
Explore the city by bike to discover hidden gems and enjoy the scenic routes.
Attend a local festival or event to experience the city's vibrant culture and traditions.
Take a day trip to Naoshima Island for a unique art and nature experience.