Kagawa Prefecture occupies the northeastern corner of the island of Shikoku and is the smallest of Japan’s prefectures. Despite its size, the prefecture, which used to be called Sanuki, has a rich history and many fascinating attractions.
The capital, Takamatsu, is home to Ritsurin Park, a stunning traditional strolling garden, and Yashima, site of one of the most famous battles in the Genpei war between the Heike and Genji clans.
Ritsurin Park in Kagawa Prefecture (photo: Rosino/flickr)
However, Kagawa prefecture is most famous in the country for being the home of Sanuki udon, a delicious wheat-based noodle served in many ways. People come from all over Japan and stand in lines for hours for a taste of the local specialty. Actually, Kagawa has a mild climate and the lowest rainfall in Japan, so wheat grows very well, and careful crop management makes Kagawa a major agricultural producer despite its scarcity of arable land.
As well as udon noodles, Kagawa is noted for its traditional industries of lacquerware, uchiwa flat fans, and gloves. Several of the islands in the Inland Sea are governed by Kagawa, including Naoshima and Shodoshima, noted for their scenic beauty and international quality art collections.
Angel Road at Shodo-shime island, Kagawa
Sakaide City is one of the main access points to the island of Shikoku because it is one end of the Seto Ohashi Bridge; the only point where trains can cross to the mainland. Temples 66 through 88 of the Shikoku Junrei pilgrimage are located in Kagawa. One of the most notable is Zentsu-ji 総本山善通寺, the birthplace of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism and the creator of the pilgrimage route.
Kagawa Zentsu-ji temple
Kagawa can be reached by many routes, including ferry, since it is bordered by the Inland Sea. The easiest access from the main island of Honshu is highway bus from any major city. The Marine Liner train runs from Okayama City to Kagawa over the Seto Ohashi Bridge. Unfortunately, travel within the prefecture is more limited; most residents use cars.
Meiro-no-machi (labyrinth town) at Shodo-shime island, Kagawa
There are local trains operated by JR Shikoku, which have limited labeling in English, and some local bus routes. Takamatsu City, the largest on Shikoku, is the easiest for a visitor to navigate in Kagawa.
Kotohira Takamatsu Kanagawa
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