Kagawa Prefecture might be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to full-day tours. From exploring Naoshima’s acclaimed contemporary art scene to walking through historic temples, Kagawa offers a diverse mix of experiences that appeal to art lovers, history buffs, and cultural explorers alike. One of our favorite picks is the private Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with a Government-Licensed Guide, which offers a personalized journey through Japan’s most celebrated art island. Whether you’re marveling at Tadao Ando’s architecture or wandering through abandoned houses transformed into art spaces, this tour promises a tailored, hassle-free day. For those interested in a more flexible adventure, the Naoshima Island Private Customizable Full Day Tour caters to your specific interests, perfect for families or curious explorers wanting to uncover hidden spots. And if spiritual history piques your interest, the Seven Temple Pilgrimage Private Full-Day Tour in Kagawa offers a walk through sacred sites and a taste of traditional Buddhism. Each offers a unique way to experience Kagawa beyond the typical tourist trail.
Quick Overview
The list below features some of the best full-day tours in Kagawa Prefecture, spanning art, culture, and spiritual discovery. The first two tours focus on Naoshima, an island famed for its contemporary art and architecture, with options for guided or customizable visits. The third tour takes you on a pilgrimage of seven temples, blending spiritual practice with sightseeing. All options are designed to fit different interests and travel styles, providing memorable ways to explore Kagawa in depth.
1. Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Discover Naoshima’s transformation from a quiet fishing village to Japan’s top contemporary art hub with this private, fully customized tour. The guide will create an itinerary based on your preferences, choosing from attractions like the Art House Project in Honmura, where old houses are converted into art installations, or the stunning Chichu Art Museum designed by Tadao Ando. This museum’s underground galleries house works by Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria, and are famous for their clever use of natural light. Since the tour is private, you can spend more time at your favorite spots or add in a cafe break in the charming local town.
Tour guide Yoko, with her 26 reviews rating, earns high marks for her knowledge and friendliness. She’s excellent at answering your questions and making sure you see the highlights, like the Art House Project and the Chichu Museum, while also leaving room for spontaneous discoveries. The tour includes hassle-free pickup from your Takamatsu hotel, making logistics simple. At about $207.75 per person for 8 hours, it offers good value considering the personalized experience and expert guidance. This tour suits art lovers, architecture fans, and travelers who prefer a flexible, intimate exploration.
Bottom Line: For a tailored, art-focused day with expert insight, this private Naoshima tour is hard to beat—especially if you want to avoid the hassle of planning yourself.
2. Naoshima Island Private Customizable Full Day Tour
If you prefer to craft your own adventure, the Naoshima Island Private Customizable Full Day Tour offers total flexibility. Priced at around $280.31, this tour begins with a detailed questionnaire to understand your interests. Once booked, you’ll receive a tour form to select specific sites and experiences—be it the underground Tadao Ando-designed museum, scenic viewpoints overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, or a visit to the public bathhouse featuring contemporary art installations.
What makes this tour stand out is its ability to adapt to your pace and preferences. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized journey, whether that includes discovering lesser-known art sites or spending extra time in favorite spots. The guide will handle logistics, ensuring smooth transitions between locations, and you’ll get insider tips along the way.
While there are no reviews yet, the flexibility and customized approach make it appealing for families, seasoned travelers, or those craving a deeper dive into Naoshima’s culture. It’s especially suited for those who want an exclusive experience or have specific interests like architecture or local food.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a totally bespoke day on Naoshima, this tour’s tailored approach makes it a standout choice, worth the slightly higher price for the personalized service.
$280.31 per person
3. Seven Temple Pilgrimage Private Full-Day Tour in Kagawa
For a spiritual journey through Kagawa’s sacred sites, the Seven Temple Pilgrimage Private Full-Day Tour offers a meaningful way to connect with local traditions. This 7-hour tour visits temples 71 through 77 of the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage route. The itinerary includes walking pilgrimage experiences along historic paths like Iyadani-ji and Mandara-ji, with opportunities for meditation and exploring temple interiors, including those with Fusuma paintings at Koyama-ji.
The tour also features a special shojin (vegetarian Buddhist) lunch at Le Paysant, giving you a taste of traditional temple cuisine. The guide will share insights into the history and spiritual significance of each site, enriching your understanding of Japanese Buddhism. While this tour is not rated yet, it’s ideal for travelers interested in religious history, meditation, or seeking a peaceful, reflective day. The visits are designed to be accessible and engaging, even for those new to pilgrimage routes.
If you’re curious about Japan’s spiritual practices or want to experience a different side of Kagawa, this tour offers an authentic, contemplative experience. It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and with an interest in spiritual culture.
Bottom Line: This pilgrimage tour is perfect if you want more than sightseeing—offering a taste of Japanese spiritual practice with expert guidance.
$300.96 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, budget, and how much flexibility you want. If art and architecture top your list, the private Naoshima full-day provides an expert-led, tailored experience. For a more personalized journey where you can pick your spots, the customizable Naoshima tour is ideal. If you seek a quiet, spiritual connection, the Seven Temple Pilgrimage offers a peaceful, culture.
Consider your fitness level for the pilgrimage and whether you prefer a guided or self-directed experience. Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Kagawa Prefecture offers a surprising range of full-day tours, whether you’re drawn to art, culture, or spirituality. For a personalized art-focused day, the private tours in Naoshima deliver a memorable, guided experience, perfect for art enthusiasts or those seeking a hassle-free day. The customizable Naoshima tour is ideal if you want to craft your own adventure, while the pilgrimage tour offers a quiet, meaningful connection to Japan’s spiritual traditions.
No matter which option you choose, planning ahead will make your day smoother and more rewarding. These tours highlight Kagawa’s diverse appeal—so pick the one that suits your curiosity and pace. Early booking is recommended, especially during busy seasons, to lock in your preferred date and avoid disappointment.