Takamatsu is a city that offers far more than its modest size suggests. Known for stunning coastal views, lush gardens, and a lively arts scene, it’s a perfect hub for diverse tours that cater to different interests. We especially love how private tours like the Full-Day Kagawa Tour unlock hidden gems, while cultural experiences such as Japanese Beauty Services bring authentic traditions right to your fingertips. Whether you’re after breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, or unique local crafts, Takamatsu’s tour options deliver.
What makes Takamatsu especially appealing is its manageable size combined with a wealth of sights. You can cruise from Instagram-worthy spots like the “Swing in the Sky” to serene beaches or ancient temples—all easily accessible. The variety and quality of these tours mean you’ll find something tailored for your pace and interest, whether it’s a quick culture or an extensive exploration.
Quick Overview of the Best Tours in Takamatsu
Our list includes a range of experiences: from full-day private trips to cycling adventures on Naoshima Island, and cultural workshops with expert artisans. For a comprehensive look at Kagawa’s highlights, the Full-Day Kagawa Tour offers a private, flexible itinerary, highlighting Instagrammable spots like Honenike Dam and Chichibugahama Beach. For those interested in arts and tradition, options like the Japanese Cultural Experience and Udon Making Class stand out. Nature lovers may prefer the Naoshima Island Cycling Tour, while history enthusiasts will find value in the Yashima Heritage Walking Tour. For an in-depth cultural journey, consider the Shikoku Pilgrimage & Puppet Show.
1. Full-Day Kagawa Tour
At number 6 on our list, the Full-Day Kagawa Tour offers a private, personalized exploration of Instagrammable highlights in Kagawa Prefecture. This 8-hour journey takes you to iconic sites like the “Swing in the Sky”, where you can capture that perfect aerial shot, and the Honenike Dam, a spectacular feat of engineering. The tour also visits Chichibugahama Beach, renowned for its wide, sandy shores—ideal for photos and relaxing strolls—and Takaya Shrine with its famous “Torii in the Sky”.
What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility of a private charter, allowing you to tailor the schedule and focus on your photo priorities. The use of a chartered taxi means you avoid the hassle of public transportation and can enjoy spontaneous stops. The tour costs around $445.81 for up to 3 people, which is quite reasonable considering the personalized experience. Reviews highlight that the tour is “perfect for seeing all that Kagawa has to offer without the stress of planning,” and the guide, Tsutsumi-san, is praised for his delightful personality.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a hassle-free, immersive day visiting scenic spots that are perfect for social media, this private tour is a top pick.
2. Japanese Cultural Experience by Nationally Certified Beauticians
For a taste of traditional Japanese beauty culture, the Japanese Cultural Experience is a delightful 2-hour session held in a dedicated salon space. With a history of 57 years, this experience involves engaging with local professionals who are certified in Japanese beauty arts. Participants can try on kimono, learn basic beauty rituals, or even have their hair styled in traditional methods.
While the experience is short, it offers an intimate glimpse into Japan’s aesthetic traditions. It’s perfect for travelers who want a hands-on cultural activity without a big time commitment. Costing around $108.04 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering its authenticity and expert guidance. Reviews are glowing, with one noting the experience as “a wonderful way to connect with Japanese beauty rituals.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in cultural workshops, this tour offers a meaningful and fun introduction to Japanese aesthetics.
$108.04 per person
3. Naoshima Island 1 Day Cycling Tour from Takamatsu Station
The Naoshima Island Cycling Tour makes for a fantastic day trip, especially for art lovers. Naoshima is famous for its contemporary art museums and installations, including the striking Red Pumpkin sculpture. This tour includes ferry transportation, making it easy to reach the island from Takamatsu. Once there, you’ll rent a bicycle—either standard or with electric assistance—to explore at your own pace.
The highlight is riding past the iconic Naoshima Pavilion and the many outdoor sculptures that dot the landscape. The tour is priced at about $259.59 per person, which includes ferry fares and bike rentals. While its current review score is just 3.0/5, the experience is valued for its unique combination of art, scenic cycling, and relaxed schedule. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some physical activity and eager to combine art with outdoor exploration.
Bottom Line: For those who enjoy art, fresh air, and a flexible day on two wheels, this tour offers a memorable experience on one of Japan’s most celebrated art islands.
$259.59 per person
4. Imabari: Iya Valley, Oboke Gorge & Udon Noodle Cooking Class
Travelers looking for a mixture of nature, culture, and hands-on fun should consider the Imabari: Iya Valley & Udon Noodle Class. The day includes crossing the famous Kazurabashi vine bridge, renowned for its lush greenery and traditional craftsmanship, and enjoying a sightseeing boat tour in Oboke Gorge. The highlight, however, is learning how to make Sanuki Udon noodles, a regional specialty, and sitting down to enjoy your own creation.
This tour offers a fantastic balance of natural beauty and culinary skill. The cost is approximately $424 per person, and it’s best suited for those who want an active, engaging day that’s more than just sightseeing. Guests rave about the Udon class, calling it “a fun and delicious experience” that adds a personal touch to the trip. Plus, the luxury bus with comfy seats ensures a relaxed ride through scenic countryside.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies and nature lovers alike, this tour guarantees a day of memorable sights and skill-building.
$424 per person
5. Shikoku 88 Temples Pilgrimage & Japanese Puppet Show
For a deep dive into Japan’s spiritual and artistic traditions, the Shikoku 88 Temples Pilgrimage & Puppet Show offers a comprehensive cultural experience. This luxury tour includes visits to two significant temples, where you can participate in the pilgrimage rituals, dressed in traditional white robes. The journey reflects centuries of spiritual practice, providing meaningful insight into Japanese religious life.
The tour also features a professionally performed Ningyo Joruri puppet show on Awaji Island, with a behind-the-scenes tour that reveals the intricate craftsmanship involved. While the cost of around $424 per person is higher, the depth of engagement makes it worthwhile for those interested in religion, art, and tradition. The luxurious bus with large windows enhances the comfort during travel, and the guided commentary deepens the understanding of each site.
Bottom Line: This experience is ideal for travelers seeking spiritual reflection combined with cultural artistry, offering a layered understanding of Shikoku’s heritage.
$424 per person
6. 2 Days BONSAI Experience in Kagawa
If you love horticulture or want a relaxing break, the 2 Days BONSAI Experience in Takamatsu is a rare opportunity. This two-day tour takes you into Takumikumō Village, where you’ll explore bonsai gardens and learn traditional techniques from a master. The experience includes crafting your own bonsai or related artwork, guided by those dedicated to preserving this art form.
While this tour’s price is around $1,599.73, it’s suited for dedicated plant enthusiasts or those eager to learn a revered Japanese craft. The owner’s passion for bonsai and the chance to enjoy traditional Italian cuisine amid scenic gardens make it a truly immersive experience. Although it currently has no reviews, the comprehensive nature promises a deep dive into cultural craftsmanship.
Bottom Line: For serious bonsai lovers or those wanting a tranquil, creative retreat, this tour offers an in-depth, memorable experience over two days.
$1,599.73 per person
7. Private Guided Shore Excursion from Takamatsu port
Travelers arriving by cruise will appreciate the Private Guided Shore Excursion. This 7-hour tour is designed for maximum flexibility, starting at Takamatsu Port with pick-up arranged at your convenience. It includes a visit to Yashima, a historic site and natural monument, where you can see the ruins of Yashima Castle and enjoy spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea.
The tour features Udon making, an essential regional craft, and a scenic walk through Ritsurin Park. The semi-private, customized nature of this tour offers a tailored experience, ideal for cruise passengers who want a manageable yet enriching overview of Takamatsu’s highlights. Priced at $650 per person, it balances exclusivity with value, especially for those who want a personal touch.
Guests note that this tour offers “immersive cultural experiences with insider knowledge,” making it suitable for travelers with limited time but a desire for depth.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise visitors wanting a customized, memorable taste of Takamatsu’s culture and scenery.
$650.00 per person
8. Takamatsu Yashima Heritage Walking Tour
History lovers should not miss the Takamatsu Yashima Heritage Walking Tour. This 8-hour exploration takes you through the historic Yashima plateau, famous for its role in the Genpei War. You’ll visit Shikoku Mura Village, an open-air museum with Edo-period buildings, and Road Station Genpeinosato Mure, a hub of local culture and crafts.
The tour offers an educational walk through temples, scenic viewpoints, and ancient ruins. It provides a well-rounded look at the site’s long-standing significance, with plenty of photo stops and cultural insights woven throughout. The cost is about $793 per person, offering a comprehensive experience for those who love history and traditional architecture.
Guests can expect to see historic buildings, learn about local crafts, and enjoy beautiful vistas of the Seto Inland Sea. This tour is best suited for history buffs, architecture aficionados, and those who enjoy leisurely walks in scenic settings.
Bottom Line: An enriching way to understand Yashima’s historic importance, this walking tour blends education with gentle exploration.
$793.00 per person
9. Private Takamatsu Busshozan Onsen Car Rail Tour
Relaxation and culture combine in the Takamatsu Busshozan Onsen Tour. This 10- to 11-hour guided experience includes visits to Ritsurin Garden and local hot springs, making it perfect for those needing a restorative break. The guide, a government-certified expert, customizes the route based on weather, traffic, and your interests, adding flexibility to the day.
Highlights include strolling through Ritsurin Garden, enjoying the tranquility of its ponds and pines, and visiting Busshozan Onsen for a relaxing soak. The tour summary emphasizes comfort and personalized service, including options for sightseeing and cultural activities. Priced at approximately $780.72 per group, it’s a good value for couples or small groups seeking a full day of local experiences.
Guests comment on how the tour’s flexibility and focus on relaxation make for a memorable, stress-free day. The tour is suited for those who want to combine scenic beauty with wellness.
Bottom Line: If your goal is a relaxing, customized tour that includes both cultural sights and hot springs, this is an excellent choice.
$780.72 per group (up to 2)
10. Shikoku Pilgrimage & Puppet Theater Luxury Tour
For travelers interested in spiritual traditions and traditional arts, the Shikoku Pilgrimage & Puppet Theater offers an immersive experience. This 10- to 11-hour tour takes you along part of the famous 88 Temples Pilgrimage, walking with a guide dressed as a pilgrim, visiting Ryozen-ji and Gokuraku-ji temples.
The journey also includes a behind-the-scenes puppet show on Awaji Island, where you’ll see the intricate Taka puppet craft and learn its significance. The tour offers a deep cultural and spiritual perspective, with a luxurious bus providing comfort throughout the day. The cost is about $454.21 per person, reflecting its comprehensive and exclusive nature.
Guests will enjoy the chance to don traditional attire, participate in rituals, and explore puppet artistry. This tour is ideally suited for those seeking a spiritual and artistic deep dive, with a high level of engagement.
Bottom Line: Designed for culturally curious travelers, this tour combines spiritual pilgrimage, traditional puppetry, and scenic travel in one memorable package.
$424 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Takamatsu
When selecting your perfect Takamatsu tour, consider your interests and how much time you have. If you’re after a full-day private adventure with unique photo spots, the Full-Day Kagawa Tour is ideal. For those craving hands-on cultural activities, the Udon Noodle Class or Japanese Beauty Experience provide authentic engagement.
Nature lovers should look at the Naoshima Cycling Tour, while history enthusiasts might prefer the Yashima Heritage Walk. Cruise travelers will find the Shore Excursion offers a tailored, hassle-free experience, especially if time is limited.
For a more spiritual or traditional experience, the Pilgrimage & Puppet Tour delivers deep cultural insights. Remember to book early during peak seasons, as popular spots like the full-day private tours fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Takamatsu offers a fascinating mix of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and unique experiences. For a comprehensive day with prime photo opportunities, the Full-Day Kagawa Tour is hard to beat. If you’re drawn to arts and crafts, the Bonsai Experience promises two days of hands-on learning. Lastly, for those wanting a spiritual or historical dive, the Yashima Heritage Walking Tour and Pilgrimage Tour have plenty to offer.
No matter your interests, Takamatsu’s diverse tours make it easy to craft a memorable trip. Just remember to plan ahead, especially during busy seasons, and enjoy the rich tapestry of experiences waiting for you.