・Nanmenzan Senko-in Yashimaji Temple: This temple is known as one of the 88 sacred places in Shikoku, and has a history spanning over 1000 years. The temple is also dedicated to the god of raccoon dogs, a rarity in Japan, and there are cute raccoon dog statues placed all over the temple grounds. Pass through the bright red Higashidaimon Gate and enter the spacious temple grounds, which exude an atmosphere of dignity.
・Nishione Observatory: This observatory is not on the tourist map of Yashima, making it the perfect off-the-beaten-path attraction. Once you pass through the forest path, you will be greeted by a breathtaking view. Take a picture of this beautiful panorama, with Takamatsu in the background.
・Shishi (Lion) no Reigan: One of the three major observatory decks, and a popular viewpoint, in Yashima, it is said to have been named after a large rock that juts out from the cliff toward Takamatsu Port, resembling a lion. Here you can try your hand at the famous kawara-nage biscuit throwing!
・Zaigo Udon Honke Wara-ya: A famous Sanuki udon restaurant that is very popular among the locals. The thatched-roof store was salvaged from an old house that was inhabited in the Shikoku region during the Edo period. Taste the excellent kama-age udon in this restaurant, with an atmosphere that invokes a feeling of old Japan!
・Ritsurin Garden: This elegant Japanese garden is considered a "national treasure" and has been designated as a special place of scenic beauty by the government. Attracting visitors from all over the world, the garden has been said to be “a place worth going out of your way to visit” and been awarded 3 Michelin stars. Fully enjoy this magnificent garden, which is said to have a step by step view of the four seasons!
・Wasen: A popular boating experience that takes you around the 7,890-square-metre South Lake of the garden, with an explanation of the grounds provided by a boatman. If you wear a Japanese hat, you can blend in beautifully with the scenery of the park as you ride the boat. Take your time to leisurely enjoy the seasonal beauty of the garden, which is said to have been enjoyed by successive lords of the domain.
・Kikugetsu-tei: Said to have been built in the latter half of the 17th century, this teahouse was named after a verse in a Chinese poem from the Tang Dynasty: "If you scoop up water, the moon will be in your hand”. Savour matcha green tea or sencha green tea together with traditional sweets, in the largest of the teahouse-style buildings in the park.
・Historic Takamatsu Castle Ruins, Tamamo Park: The castle was built in 1588 by Chikamasa Ikoma, a vassal of Hideyoshi Toyotomi. The castle is famous for its location, facing the sea, a rare sight in Japan. Taking advantage of its location, the sea bream feeding experience is also popular. Take a walk around Takamatsu Castle, a landmark of Takamatsu.
