Shodoshima Island Bus Tour from Takamatsu

Takamatsu , Japan

Shodoshima Island Bus Tour from Takamatsu

Active

9h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Shodoshima is the second-largest island in the Seto Inland Sea and one of the region’s most popular destinations for travelers looking to explore the Inland Sea archipelago. The island is noted for its distinctive food culture, which reflects Shodoshima’s comparatively mild climate and its location near major shipping lanes. Traditional specialties include soy sauce and long, thin somen noodles, while olives are a more recent addition.

Move to Shodoshima island by Ferry from Takamatsu
Sightseeing by bus at Shodoshima island.
Visit the following sightseeing spots：
Kankakei Vallay Ropeway
Nakayama Senmaida
Shodoshima Olive Park etc.

Available options

Shodoshima Island Day Tour

Bus

What's included

Lunch

Ferry (Round trip from Takamatsu or Uno)

Private 7 hours charter bus at Shodoshima island

Admission fee (Kankakei ropeway : 1980 JPY/RT)　

Detailed itinerary

Sightseeing by bus for total 7 hours

The Kankakei Gorge is a breathtaking ravine at the center of Shodoshima Island. It is ranked as one of Japan's three most beautiful gorges and becomes particularly spectacular during the autumn color season which usually takes place in the second half of November.

A ropeway runs the length of the gorge between a rather basic lower station and a more developed upper station with a souvenir shop and restaurant. Both stations can be reached by car and offer parking lots. The upper station is near Shodoshima's highest peak and has observation decks with nice panoramic views over the gorge, the island and the Seto Inland Sea.

In addition to the ropeway, two hiking trails lead between the two stations. They are easy but steep trails that run mostly through the forest. The western trail is roughly two kilometers long and takes about one hour uphill or 30-45 minutes downhill. The eastern trail does not follow the ropeway as closely and is about three kilometers long.

Nestled up against the mountains in Shodoshima's interior are the Senmaida or "one thousand rice fields". Seemingly hundreds of terraced rice fields are built into the surrounding hills, creating a beautiful rural sight. In the nearby village stands an outdoor kabuki stage on which local kabuki plays have been performed since the Edo Period.

Shodoshima Island’s soy sauce factories are concentrated in an area called Soy Sauce Village, where warehouses and factories built during the Meiji era (1868-1912) line the road from Yasuda to Sakate Port. The buildings, still in use today, create a historic atmosphere with their traditional charred wood cladding and old plaster walls.

Shodoshima is the birth place of olive cultivation in Japan. The island's Mediterranean climate made it an ideal place for growing olives, which was first succeeded in 1908. Since then the island has been a top producer of Japanese olives and olive oil, and has earned Shodoshima the nickname "Olive Island".

Enjoy Art objeccts on the way back (sd60, sd59)

What's not included

Any admission fee (budget ¥1,000) in Hishio no Sato street. Please pay directly at site when you visit.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

MEET TIME : 8:30am
We will pick you up at the JR ticket gate.
The guide will hold up the company's name

About Takamatsu

Takamatsu is a coastal city in Kagawa Prefecture, known for its beautiful gardens, historic castles, and delicious udon noodles. The city offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern attractions, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Takamatsu Castle

Also known as Tamamo Castle, this historic castle offers beautiful views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. The castle grounds are a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Ritsurin Garden

One of Japan's most famous gardens, Ritsurin Garden is a beautiful blend of traditional Japanese landscaping and natural beauty. The garden features ponds, bridges, and historic tea houses.

Nature 2-3 hours ¥410

Yashima

A scenic plateau offering stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding islands. Yashima is also known for its historic significance and beautiful natural landscapes.

Nature 2-3 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sanuki Udon

Thick, chewy wheat noodles served in a variety of broths and toppings. A must-try specialty of Takamatsu.

Main dish Vegetarian options available

Tamanegi

Sweet and savory onions, a popular side dish in Takamatsu.

Side dish Vegetarian

Oysters

Fresh oysters from the Seto Inland Sea, often grilled or served raw.

Seafood Gluten-free, but check for allergens

Popular Activities

Hiking on Yashima Cycling around the city Kayaking in the Seto Inland Sea Visiting Ritsurin Garden Beach relaxation at Katahinahama Spa and onsen experiences Exploring Takamatsu Castle Visiting Kompira-san Shrine

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. The cherry blossom season in April and the autumn foliage in November are particularly beautiful.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Takamatsu is a very safe city with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, travelers should always take basic precautions to protect their belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi services and check fares before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Takamatsu Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Takamatsu Station

By bus

Takamatsu Station Bus Terminal, Central Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Takamatsu. Buses are frequent and cover most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Marunouchi Katahinahama Yashima-cho

Day trips

Kotohira

20 km from Takamatsu • Half day

A small town known for its historic Kompira-san Shrine, a significant Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of theater and commerce.

Naoshima

20 km from Takamatsu • Full day

A small island in the Seto Inland Sea known for its contemporary art museums and installations, including works by famous artists like Yayoi Kusama and James Turrell.

Shikoku Pilgrimage

Varies • Multi-day

A famous pilgrimage route covering 88 Buddhist temples across Shikoku Island. Many travelers choose to walk parts of the route for its spiritual and cultural significance.

Festivals

Takamatsu Udon Festival • November Takamatsu Matsuri • July Kotohira Matsuri • April

Pro tips

Visit Ritsurin Garden early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Try different types of udon at local specialty shops to find your favorite.
Explore the city by bike to discover hidden gems and enjoy the scenic routes.
Attend a local festival or event to experience the city's vibrant culture and traditions.
Take a day trip to Naoshima Island for a unique art and nature experience.