Itinerary for 3 day trip to Kagawa Prefecture

Kagawa Prefecture, known for its beautiful landscapes, delicious udon noodles, and rich cultural heritage, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly adventure. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that everyone will enjoy!

Day 1: Explore Takamatsu

Morning:

: Start your day at this stunning Japanese garden, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The kids will love exploring the ponds, bridges, and beautiful landscapes. Don’t forget to snap some family photos by the iconic pine trees!
Snack Time: Grab some local snacks from a nearby vendor. Try some sweet “dango” (rice dumplings) or “kakigori” (shaved ice) to keep everyone energized.

Afternoon:

: After the garden, head to . The kids can run around the grounds, and you can explore the ruins and enjoy the views of the Seto Inland Sea. There’s a lovely park nearby where you can have a picnic lunch.
: Kagawa is famous for its udon noodles, so make sure to stop by a local udon shop for lunch. Try the “kake udon” (hot udon soup) or “bukkake udon” (cold udon with a dipping sauce). Kids usually love slurping up those noodles!

Evening:

Shopping and Strolling: Head to the , where you can browse local shops and pick up some souvenirs. There are also plenty of family-friendly restaurants for dinner.
: End your day with a relaxing walk along the waterfront. The sunset views over the Seto Inland Sea are breathtaking!

Day 2: Art and Nature in Naoshima

Morning:

: Take an early ferry from Takamatsu to Naoshima, the island known for its contemporary art. The ferry ride is fun for the kids, and they’ll love spotting other boats and islands along the way.
: Start your art adventure at the . The kids will enjoy the unique art installations, and there’s a lovely café for a light breakfast.

Afternoon:

: Explore the island’s outdoor art installations, like the famous “Pumpkin” by Yayoi Kusama. Kids can run around and take fun photos with the art!
Lunch at a Local Café: Enjoy lunch at one of the local cafés. Many offer delicious local dishes, and you can try some more udon or fresh seafood.

Evening:

: Spend the afternoon at one of Naoshima’s beaches. The sandy shores are perfect for building sandcastles and splashing in the water.
Return to Takamatsu: Head back to Takamatsu in the evening. For dinner, consider trying a family-friendly izakaya (Japanese pub) where you can share various dishes.

Day 3: Cultural Experiences in Marugame

Morning:

: Start your day at , one of Japan’s few remaining original castles. The kids will love climbing to the top for panoramic views of the city and surrounding area.
: After the castle, visit this museum, which often has family-friendly exhibits and activities.

Afternoon:

: Book a family-friendly udon-making workshop! It’s a fun hands-on experience where everyone can learn how to make their own noodles. Plus, you get to eat what you make!
Lunch: Enjoy the udon you just made for lunch. It’s a great way to bond as a family!

Evening:

: Spend your last evening exploring local shops in Marugame. Look for unique souvenirs, like handmade crafts or local snacks.
Dinner: For your final dinner, consider a restaurant that serves “kushi katsu” (deep-fried skewers) or other local specialties. It’s a fun way to end your trip!

Tips for Your Trip:

Transportation: Renting a car can be convenient for getting around, especially with kids. Public transport is also available, but check schedules in advance.
Weather: Check the weather before you go, as it can affect outdoor plans. Bring sunscreen and hats for sunny days!
Language: While many places have English signage, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can be helpful and fun for the kids!

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Kagawa Prefecture! Enjoy your family adventure! 🌟