The 9 Most Popular Tours & Experiences In Kagawa Prefecture

Kagawa Prefecture packs a punch when it comes to unique tours and experiences. It’s a place where culinary delights meet art installations, ancient temples, and scenic countryside rides. If you’ve ever wanted to combine cultural discovery with a touch of adventure, Kagawa offers some compelling options. For example, the Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour (https://theabroadguide.com/naoshima-full-day-private-tour-with-government-licensed-guide/) is perfect for art lovers wanting a tailored experience of Japan’s most celebrated art island. Or, if cycling through sunflower fields sounds more your speed, the E-Bike Rental to Hidden Udon (https://theabroadguide.com/kagawa-e-bike-rental-to-hidden-udon-recommended-by-locals/) offers a delightful blend of local food and scenic countryside. Whatever your style, Kagawa makes for memorable trips.

Here’s a quick overview of what’s available:
– Private art-focused tours on Naoshima, including full-day bespoke options (https://theabroadguide.com/naoshima-island-private-customizable-full-day-tour/).
– Cultural pilgrimages exploring sacred temples (https://theabroadguide.com/seven-temple-pilgrimage-private-full-day-tour-in-kagawa/).
– Scenic bike rides through sunflower fields and countryside (https://theabroadguide.com/rent-a-bike-lets-go-see-the-sunflowers-in-mannou-town-with-an-electrically-assisted-e-bikeintroducing-recommendation-routes-for-sunflower-producers/).
– Unique experiences like Naoshima Island tours and Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimages. Read on for detailed insights into each.

1. Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide

At number 1, this private tour of Naoshima is designed for art aficionados who want a personalized experience. The tour lasts about 8 hours and includes hassle-free pickup from your Takamatsu hotel. Your guide will help you explore the island’s highlights, including the iconic Chichu Art Museum, designed by Tadao Ando, which is mostly underground and filled with natural light—an architectural marvel. The Art House Project in Honmura Village is another must-see, showcasing abandoned houses turned into art installations.

What sets this tour apart is its fully customizable itinerary. You can choose three or four sites—perfect if you want to focus on specific interests like architecture, sculpture, or local history. The reviews highlight the guide’s deep knowledge and helpfulness, with many mentioning how they appreciated the tailored experience and smooth logistics. Priced at around $200.96 per person, it offers excellent value for a curated, private day in an art lover’s paradise.

Bottom line: If you’re craving a flexible, expert-guided art exploration and don’t mind the price, this tour is hard to beat.

2. Kagawa: E-Bike Rental to Hidden Udon Recommended by Locals

For a casual, local-flavor-filled adventure, number 2 is exploring Kagawa’s udon culture by e-bike. For just $21, you get a 4-hour rental and a route map that guides you to hidden udon shops favored by locals. This is ideal if you love food, want to experience the countryside, and prefer to go at your own pace.

Riding through small alleys and scenic towns, you’ll sample different kinds of Sanuki udon, a regional specialty. The route includes stops at places like Manno-cho, where you can indulge in udon and enjoy the peaceful rural scenery. Since there’s no guide, it’s best suited for independent travelers who enjoy self-guided exploration. It’s a budget-friendly way to learn about local culinary traditions while enjoying the freedom of cycling through Kagawa’s quiet backroads.

Bottom line: Perfect for food lovers and active travelers who want an inexpensive, authentic taste of Kagawa’s renowned udon culture.

3. Seven Temple Pilgrimage Private Full-Day Tour in Kagawa

This pilgrimage tour offers a spiritual journey through seven of the 88 sacred temples of Shikoku, focusing on temples 71 through 77. With a guide and bus transport, you’ll experience walking pilgrimage segments at Iyadani-ji, Mandara-ji, and Shutsujakaji, each with a walking experience along historic roads. A notable feature is the visit to Koyama Temple, where you can see Fusuma paintings and participate in meditation.

The tour also includes a traditional shojin French lunch at Le Paysant, a highlight for culinary curiosity. The pace is relaxed, and the program includes walking, meditation, and culture, making it suitable for those interested in Buddhism or Japanese spiritual practices. It’s priced at $300.96 per person, which includes all entry tickets and meals, offering good value for those seeking a meaningful cultural experience. The reviews are not yet available, but the detailed itinerary suggests a well-rounded day of spiritual insight.

Bottom line: Ideal for culturally curious travelers eager to connect with Japan’s religious traditions in a guided setting.

4. Finding Naoshima Tour: An Art Island Discovery Tour

If you want a quick, curated introduction to Naoshima, this Finding Naoshima tour lasts around 4 hours and costs about $58.80. It’s a good choice for travelers who prefer a structured experience without the commitment of a full day. The focus is on art exploration, with visits to the Art House Project around Miyanoura Port, including the famous Red Pumpkin sculpture and the Pavilion.

This tour emphasizes taking memorable photos and experiencing Naoshima’s art and natural environment. It’s not overly packed, and no tickets are included, which means you can enjoy the art at your own pace. It’s best suited for travelers short on time but still eager to see the island’s highlights. Since it’s a small group or private experience, it’s flexible enough for families or solo travelers looking for a quick cultural fix.

Bottom line: Perfect for a half-day immersion into Naoshima’s art scene with enough flexibility to enjoy the island’s atmosphere.

5. Rent a Bike: Let’s go see the sunflowers in Mannou Town with an electrically assisted e-bike!

For lovers of beautiful scenery and cycling, number 5 offers an e-bike tour to see sunflower fields in Mannou Town. For around $21.89, you get 3-4 hours of rental and a suggested route to visit sunflower producers. This experience is ideal for those wanting to enjoy the countryside’s gentle charm, especially in summer when sunflower fields are in bloom. The route also passes by local udon shops, offering a taste of Sanuki cuisine along the way.

This tour doesn’t include a guide, so it’s best for independent travelers comfortable with navigation and self-guided routes. The scenery is a highlight, along with the chance to relax in the peaceful rural surroundings. It’s suitable for middle school age and above, with a minimum height requirement of 150 cm.

Bottom line: A great choice for active families or solo travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with local food in a flexible, budget-friendly way.

6. Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage by E- Bike Tour

This e-bike pilgrimage tour takes you through temples 86-88, including the finish line of the famous Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. For about $98, you’ll follow small country roads, experiencing the journey of pilgrims firsthand. The ride is around 3 hours, making it accessible for most fitness levels over 150cm tall.

The tour offers a blend of spiritual insight and scenic cycling. You’ll meet locals, see beautiful temples, and learn about the significance of the pilgrimage routes. The use of an e-bike makes the ride easier, especially on hilly terrain, and the focus is on appreciating the cultural atmosphere of the pilgrimage. No reviews are available, but the itinerary’s emphasis on authentic temple visits and local interactions makes it appealing for those interested in Japanese religious culture.

Bottom line: A meaningful, manageable way to experience part of Shikoku’s sacred pilgrimage trail for those interested in spiritual travel.

7. Spend Special Time Enjoying Local Food in Zentsuji, Kagawa

This food-focused tour in Zentsuji offers a chance to explore the birthplace of Kobo Daishi Kukai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. For about $75.57, up to 10 travelers can enjoy a 2-hour experience of local cuisine, including visits to temples and natural sites associated with Kukai. It’s a cultural and culinary mix, ideal for those curious about Japan’s spiritual and food traditions.

While specific reviews aren’t available, the focus on local food and spiritual sites makes this a good pick for travelers who want a relaxed, small-group experience. It’s perfect for those interested in religious history combined with tasting regional specialties.

Bottom line: Good for foodies and culture lovers looking for a short, intimate experience in Zentsuji.

8. Naoshima Island Private Customizable Full Day Tour

If you want to craft your perfect Naoshima adventure, this full-day private tour provides endless flexibility. For $280.31, you’ll work with the guide to select your preferred attractions, from art museums to scenic spots. The tour starts with a personalized itinerary form, allowing you to specify interests like the Benesse House or the Ando-designed museums.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want control over their day and are comfortable customizing their itinerary. The guide’s expertise ensures you see what matters most to you, whether that’s contemporary art, architecture, or relaxing with views of the Seto Inland Sea. The reviews haven’t yet been published, but the flexibility and private nature make it a top choice for dedicated art fans and cultural explorers.

Bottom line: Excellent for those who prefer a tailored, private day on Naoshima, especially if you’re traveling with specific interests in mind.

9. Experience Japanese Martial Arts Karate in Kagawa

For an active, hands-on cultural experience, number 9 offers a Karate lesson in Sakaide City. Priced at about $69.71, the 1.5-hour session is designed for beginners and non-athletes, with a curriculum that emphasizes fun without recklessness. You’ll learn basic techniques, shout “Sei!” and practice kicking in a supportive environment.

This is perfect for families, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to try a piece of Japanese martial arts without a long-term commitment. The location offers a genuine dojo experience, rooted in tradition yet accessible for newcomers. While specific reviews aren’t available, the clear focus on beginner-friendly instruction makes it a low-pressure, engaging activity.

Bottom line: Great for cultural travelers who want an interactive, memorable introduction to Japanese martial arts.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Kagawa

When selecting between these experiences, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If art is your priority, the Naoshima private tour offers a bespoke experience (https://theabroadguide.com/naoshima-full-day-private-tour-with-government-licensed-guide/). For those wanting local food and scenic cycling, the udon and sunflower bike rides (https://theabroadguide.com/kagawa-e-bike-rental-to-hidden-udon-recommended-by-locals/) are perfect. Cultural pilgrims can opt for the seven temple tour (https://theabroadguide.com/seven-temple-pilgrimage-private-full-day-tour-in-kagawa/), while independent explorers might prefer the Naoshima art discovery (https://theabroadguide.com/finding-naoshima-tour-an-art-island-discovery-tour/).

Timing also matters—full-day tours need planning, while shorter experiences like the Karate lesson or local food tour can fit into a busy schedule. Booking early is advisable, especially for private tours or popular activities.

Kagawa offers a surprisingly diverse array of tours and experiences. Whether you want to learn about contemporary art, explore sacred temples, or enjoy scenic cycling through sunflower fields, there’s something for every traveler. We recommend picking a tour that aligns with your interests, and don’t shy away from combining a few for a well-rounded visit. Start planning early, and you’ll find yourself with plenty of authentic memories of this charming part of Japan.