Takamatsu Private Tour: Local Guide, Custom Walk & Pickup

Summary

Walk Takamatsu’s gardens, castle, and arcades with a guide

Experience Takamatsu’s famous Ritsurin Garden, explore the unique saltwater moats of Takamatsu Castle, and stroll Japan’s longest shopping arcade with your local guide—plus enjoy flexible pickup and a tour tailored just for you. It’s those small moments—like sharing snacks by the pond—that you’ll remember long after heading home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping out in Takamatsu was how the air smelled — a little salty from the sea, but also something green, almost sweet. Our guide, Ms. Sato, waved at us near the station (she had this bright yellow umbrella — easy to spot), and we set off on foot. She asked what we wanted to see most; I blurted out “Ritsurin Garden” before I could overthink it. She grinned and said that was her favorite too.

I’m not really a garden person usually, but Ritsurin Koen just felt different. The paths were soft underfoot, and there was this quiet except for the sound of water trickling somewhere nearby. Ms. Sato pointed out an old pine tree shaped like a crane (I’d have missed it), and told us how feudal lords used to walk here to clear their heads. At one point she handed me a tiny rice cracker from her bag — “for energy,” she said — and I swear it tasted better sitting by that pond than any snack I’ve had in ages.

Afterwards we wandered toward Takamatsu Castle. The moat actually uses seawater — which is kind of wild if you think about it. There were some locals fishing nearby who nodded at us as we passed; one of them tried to teach me how to say “good morning” in Sanuki dialect but honestly I probably butchered it (he laughed anyway). We ducked into the long covered shopping arcade next, which stretched on forever — shops selling everything from fancy handbags to plastic keychains shaped like udon noodles. It was busy but not overwhelming; people moved with purpose but nobody seemed rushed.

I still think about that moment in the garden when everything went quiet except for the wind in the trees. If you’re looking for a day trip in Takamatsu with a local guide who actually listens to what you want (and brings snacks), this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Takamatsu Highlights

• Visit Ritsurin Koen Garden
• Tour Takamatsu Castle
• Walk Takamatsu Shopping Arcade
• Explore Local Crafts Museum

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Takamatsu private tour?

Yes, your guide will meet you on foot within a designated area of Takamatsu city.

How long does the half-day tour last?

The tour lasts approximately four hours.

Can I customize my itinerary for this walking tour?

Yes, you can choose 2-3 sites from a list provided when booking.

Is Ritsurin Garden included in the tour?

You can include Ritsurin Garden as one of your chosen stops.

Are transportation options wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are welcome.

Will my guide speak English?

Your guide will be a government-licensed English speaker.

Does the tour include lunch or food stops?

No lunch is included by default, but there are food options along the route.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your licensed local English-speaking guide on foot within central Takamatsu, plus a fully customizable walking itinerary covering two or three sites like Ritsurin Garden or Takamatsu Castle—just let your guide know what interests you most before setting off together.