Full of highlights, enjoy Kagawa’s beautiful winter! Introducing 5 sightseeing spots

Kagawa Prefecture is the smallest prefecture in Japan, but surprisingly, there are natural attractions and theme parks that can be enjoyed even in winter. From parks where you can enjoy ski slopes and Japanese gardens to amusement parks for both children and adults, there are plenty of winter-exclusive attractions and events. Here are 5 recommended sightseeing spots in Kagawa during winter.

1. Fun for both adults and children! “Snow Park Unpenji”

When it comes to winter leisure in Kagawa, this is the place: “Snow Park Unpenji.” It is Kagawa’s first ski slope with both artificial and natural snow. The slopes are well-maintained and easy to slide on, and there are night skiing facilities too. With veteran skiers and snowboarders always patrolling, even beginners can feel safe.

There are two courses: the “Main Course” and the “Kids’ Course.” Families will be glad that children can safely play in the snow. There is also a free ski class for beginners, so if it’s your first time skiing, be sure to join.

Access: about 15 minutes from the Onohara Interchange on the Takamatsu Expressway. Once you arrive at the parking lot, take the Unpenji Ropeway to the summit station. From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to the slopes. The best part is, there’s no need to drive on snowy roads. Recommended for those looking for a ski resort near Shikoku.

2. Japanese beauty that spreads in the quiet of winter “Ritsurin Garden”

Ritsurin Garden is a special scenic spot located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture. It is a Japanese garden where you can enjoy seasonal flowers and trees. In winter, bright camellias and yellow ligularia stand out vividly against the monochrome scenery.

Just walking a little gives you different views of the garden, and taking a ride on a traditional Japanese boat around the South Pond lets you experience a unique, beautiful perspective—as if you’ve become a feudal lord yourself. The garden seen from the water is exceptional. Inside, there are dining places where you can enjoy meals and delicious matcha while looking out at the garden and listening to birdsong.

Access: 3 minutes on foot from JR Ritsurin-Koen-Kitaguchi Station (Kōtoku Line), or 6 minutes on foot from Ritsurin-Koen Station (Kotoden Kotohira Line).

3. Forget the cold and have fun at “New Reoma World”

About 25 minutes on local roads from Sakaide IC or Zentsuji IC, and about 15 minutes from Fuchu Lake Smart IC, this is Kagawa’s only amusement park. In addition to more than 20 rides, there’s the “Oriental Trip” area reproducing world heritage sites, as well as stages, theaters, and kids’ experience zones. There’s so much content, you can’t finish it in a day. With lodging and hot springs inside, some even call it “Shikoku’s Disneyland?”

At night, you can enjoy the region’s largest illumination along with 360-degree projection mapping. Visiting during Christmas with family or a partner will surely create wonderful memories. There are also seasonal events such as Christmas tree lighting ceremonies and New Year’s countdown celebrations, making winter visits enjoyable.

4. In the cold winter, stay warm and enjoy art indoors “Chichu Art Museum”

Located on Naoshima, known as the “art island,” this registered museum of Kagawa Prefecture was established in 2004 with the theme “a place to reflect on nature and humanity.” Most of the building is buried underground, designed to preserve the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea. The entire building itself feels like a huge artwork, fascinating visitors even before entering.

Inside, the collections are displayed under soft natural light, so the appearance of works changes depending on the season, time of day, and weather. For this reason, many people return again and again at different times.

After viewing the art, relax at the Chichu Café while gazing at the Seto Inland Sea. In the cold winter, it’s delightful to slowly and warmly enjoy magnificent art. Admission is 2,060 yen, free for those under 15 (as of November 2016). Accommodations can also be booked online, so it’s worth checking.

5. Feel like a Kabuki actor at “Old Konpira Grand Kabuki Theater Kanamaruza”

The Old Konpira Grand Kabuki Theater was built in 1835. Among existing theaters, it is one of the oldest in Japan and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of the country. Its architecture is full of Edo-period atmosphere, and even those unfamiliar with Kabuki will be captivated once inside.

The highlight is being able to walk down the hanamichi (stage walkway) and stand on the stage. You can also tour backstage, the dressing rooms, and even the underground stage area. Taking a guided tour helps bring the experience to life, making it enjoyable even for those who have never seen Kabuki. Opening hours are 9:00–17:00 daily, with no holidays, so you can visit anytime. If you go to Konpira Shrine in winter, be sure to stop by.

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced 5 sightseeing spots you can enjoy even in winter in Kagawa Prefecture. At Snow Park Unpenji, you can fully experience snow play, which is only possible in winter. Taking the ropeway to the summit adds extra excitement beyond skiing itself. At Ritsurin Garden, you can feel the nature of winter firsthand, or head to Naoshima to enjoy the sea breeze and art. Make the most of winter in Kagawa!

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Full of highlights, enjoy Kagawa’s beautiful winter! Introducing 5 sightseeing spots