Ritsurin Garden Travel Guide

Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu

Ritsurin Garden Complete Travel Guide

Ritsurin Garden is a Michelin three-star strolling garden in Takamatsu, built around six ponds and thirteen landscaped hills where the view changes with almost every step. It works well as a calm half-day stop before or after island-hopping in the Seto Inland Sea.

Quick Facts

PricePaid. Adult admission is around yen 410; elementary and junior high school children are around yen 170. A wasen boat ride on the South Pond costs extra.
Time needed1 to 1.5 hours for a full loop; longer with a teahouse stop.
Best timeEarly morning for quiet paths, or autumn for foliage color.
Good forGarden lovers, photographers, and a relaxed break between Takamatsu and the islands.

Best Things to Do

  • Walk the strolling paths around the six ponds and thirteen landscaped hills, where the layout is designed so the scenery changes with each step.
  • Climb Shiun-zan hill for an elevated view over the South Garden.
  • Take a wasen boat ride on the South Pond, weather permitting and for an extra fee.
  • Stop at Kikugetsu-tei teahouse for matcha and a wagashi sweet overlooking the water.

Tickets and Fees

Checked in July 2026: adult admission is around yen 410 at the gate; sources vary slightly on the exact figure, so confirm the current price before visiting. Opening and closing times change month to month, so check the current schedule if you plan an early morning or evening visit.

How to Get There

Ritsurin Garden is about a 15-minute walk from JR Takamatsu Station, or a short walk from JR Ritsurin-koen Kitaguchi Station. Kotoden's Ritsurin-koen Station sits right next to the East Gate entrance.

Nearby Attractions

For a full Kagawa itinerary, pair this with a ferry day trip to Shodoshima or an art-focused day at Naoshima Art Island.

Book Before You Go

Use official information for opening hours and ticket rules, then book tours or tickets only when they fit your route.