Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Takamatsu, Kagawa, Japan

1. Ritsurin Garden

A beautiful landscaped garden with ponds, teahouses, and a shrine, once the residence of a feudal lord.

A famous Shinto shrine located on a mountain, housing over 1,000 statues of the goddess of mercy.

A Buddhist temple built in the 10th century with a beautiful five-story pagoda and stunning views.

Historical Artifacts: Preserves ancient Buddhist art and cultural relics.
Architectural Masterpiece: An exquisite example of ancient Japanese temple architecture.
Scenic Location: Offers breathtaking views of Takamatsu city and the Seto Inland Sea.

A sacred island with a beautiful shrine dedicated to the god of the sea.

A shrine dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, located on a hill with over 1,000 torii gates.

Architectural Beauty: Stunning views of the city and unique torii gate architecture.
Religious Significance: An essential site for rice cultivation rituals.
Spiritual Journey: Walking through the torii gates provides a spiritual experience.

A picturesque gorge with clear streams and lush greenery, offering hiking trails and stunning views.

Natural Beauty: Features a breathtaking natural landscape.
Hiking Opportunities: Offers various hiking trails for all skill levels.
Scenic Viewpoints: Provides numerous viewpoints to take in the beauty of the gorge.

A charming district with traditional merchants' houses and a beautiful canal.

Historical Preservation: Preserves the atmosphere of Japan's Edo Period.
Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful architecture and a picturesque canal.
Shopping Experience: Offers unique souvenirs, local delicacies, and traditional crafts.

A sub-shrine of Kotohiragu dedicated to the god of war and wisdom, located on a cliffside.

Architectural Masterpiece: Features stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
Religious Significance: An important site for worshipping the god of war and wisdom.
Scenic Location: Located on a cliffside, offering breathtaking views of the sea.

A Buddhist temple housing one of Japan's largest statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.

Historical Significance: One of the oldest temples in Shikoku.
Architectural Wonder: Features a beautiful five-story pagoda and intricate carvings.
Religious Significance: An essential site for Buddhist pilgrims.

A Buddhist temple located on a hillside, offering stunning views and a cable car ride.

A small island with a beautiful shrine dedicated to the god of fishing and sea safety.

Marine Life: Home to diverse marine life.
Religious Significance: A sacred site for fishermen and those who wish for safe sea voyages.
Scenic Beauty: Featuring stunning rock formations and clear waters.

An astronomical observatory offering stargazing sessions and educational programs.

Education and Awareness: Raises awareness about astronomy and the universe.
Stargazing Experience: Offers opportunities to view the night sky through telescopes.
Scientific Research: Participates in scientific research projects related to astronomy.

A beautiful gorge with numerous waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.

Natural Beauty: Features a breathtaking natural landscape.
Hiking Opportunities: Offers various hiking trails for all skill levels.
Scenic Viewpoints: Provides numerous viewpoints to take in the beauty of the gorge.

A Buddhist temple located on an island, famous for its floating torii gate.

Historical Significance: One of the most famous temples in Japan.
Scenic Beauty: Featuring a beautiful island landscape and a floating torii gate.
Spiritual Journey: Walking through the temple provides a spiritual experience.

A suspension bridge crossing Komatsukyo Gorge, offering stunning views.