Port information & tips for Takamatsu
Takamatsu is the elegant gateway to Shikoku Island and impresses as a charming port city on the picturesque Seto Inland Sea. The atmosphere is characterized by a harmonious blend of modern architecture and Japanese tradition, offering visitors an experience that is both relaxed and inspiring. Cultural highlights include the magnificent Ritsurin Garden, considered one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens, and the historic Takamatsu Castle in the idyllic Tamamo Park. Cruise ships dock directly at the modern Sunport Takamatsu, located in the heart of the city. Thanks to this prime location, guests can easily reach the central sights, the main train station, and the ferry terminals to the neighboring art islands within a few minutes' walk.
The cruise port of Takamatsu on Shikoku, Japan, is easily accessible thanks to its excellent transport links and central location directly in the city. The berths in the Sunport Takamatsu area are in close proximity to the city center and the main transportation hubs. Most ships dock at Sunport (Tamamo district), which is only a few minutes' walk from JR Takamatsu Station.
Airplane
Arrival from the DACH region is primarily by plane to Japan. The nearest airport is Takamatsu Airport (TAK), located about 16 to 18 kilometers south of the city. Shuttle buses run from there to JR Takamatsu Station; the journey takes about 40 to 50 minutes and costs between 700 and 850 Yen (approx. 4-5 Euro). Alternatively, a taxi costs about 4,000 Yen and will take you in around 22 minutes to the ferry terminal, which is located near the cruise terminal. For international flights, a combination with Japan's major airports (e.g. Osaka Kansai KIX or Tokyo NRT/HND) and a subsequent train journey via Okayama is often advisable.
Train
JR Takamatsu Station is a central hub and is only a 5 to 10-minute walk from the cruise berths. From here, there are fast train connections via the Marine Liner to Okayama Station (approx. 55 minutes), a major Shinkansen hub offering direct connections to Osaka and Hiroshima. The local Kotoden Railway also connects Takamatsu-Chikko Station, which is just a short walk from JR Takamatsu Station, with other destinations in Kagawa Prefecture, such as Ritsurin Garden.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long flight times from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, we recommend arriving in Takamatsu at least one day before embarkation. This allows for a relaxed start to your cruise and provides a buffer for potential travel delays. In the city center of Takamatsu, you will find numerous hotels in the immediate vicinity of the port and JR Takamatsu Station, allowing for convenient preparation for your cruise.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Please plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The following also applies during the trip: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The cruise port of Takamatsu on Shikoku, Japan, is easily accessible thanks to its excellent transport links and central location directly in the city. The berths in the Sunport Takamatsu area are in close proximity to the city center and the main transportation hubs. Most ships dock at Sunport (Tamamo district), which is only a few minutes' walk from JR Takamatsu Station.
Airplane
Arrival from the DACH region is primarily by plane to Japan. The nearest airport is Takamatsu Airport (TAK), located about 16 to 18 kilometers south of the city. Shuttle buses run from there to JR Takamatsu Station; the journey takes about 40 to 50 minutes and costs between 700 and 850 Yen (approx. 4-5 Euro). Alternatively, a taxi costs about 4,000 Yen and will take you in around 22 minutes to the ferry terminal, which is located near the cruise terminal. For international flights, a combination with Japan's major airports (e.g. Osaka Kansai KIX or Tokyo NRT/HND) and a subsequent train journey via Okayama is often advisable.
Train
JR Takamatsu Station is a central hub and is only a 5 to 10-minute walk from the cruise berths. From here, there are fast train connections via the Marine Liner to Okayama Station (approx. 55 minutes), a major Shinkansen hub offering direct connections to Osaka and Hiroshima. The local Kotoden Railway also connects Takamatsu-Chikko Station, which is just a short walk from JR Takamatsu Station, with other destinations in Kagawa Prefecture, such as Ritsurin Garden.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long flight times from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, we recommend arriving in Takamatsu at least one day before embarkation. This allows for a relaxed start to your cruise and provides a buffer for potential travel delays. In the city center of Takamatsu, you will find numerous hotels in the immediate vicinity of the port and JR Takamatsu Station, allowing for convenient preparation for your cruise.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Please plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The following also applies during the trip: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
Takamatsu Port impresses with its central location and allows for an extremely comfortable start to your shore excursion directly from the Sunport Terminal.
On Foot
From the cruise terminal, you can reach the most important points such as JR Takamatsu Station and the modern Sunport district in about 5 to 10 minutes. The paths are flat and lead you pleasantly directly into the lively hustle and bustle of the city as well as to the nearby parks.
Train and Kotoden
In the immediate vicinity of the port are the stations of JR Shikoku and the local Kotoden railway. These trains are ideal for trips to the famous Ritsurin Garden and also offer an authentic way to explore the region and surrounding temples stress-free.
Taxi and Machinaka-Loop Buses
Taxis are available for individual tours directly at the terminal exit and guarantee fast transport to any desired destination. In addition, the Machinaka-Loop buses run regularly through the center and conveniently connect the port with the city's large shopping arcades.
To make the most of your stay in Takamatsu, an ideal combination of world-famous garden art and historical sights directly on the shores of the Seto Inland Sea is recommended.
Ritsurin Garden
This extensive garden masterpiece is considered one of the most beautiful in Japan and enchants visitors with its carefully arranged ponds and green hills; furthermore, traditional teahouses invite you to a relaxing break in one of the country's most significant cultural assets.
Tamamo Park & Sunport
The area located directly at the harbor impresses with the ruins of Takamatsu Castle and its striking moats filled with seawater, while at the same time, the modern Sunport promenade invites you to stroll with a view of the arriving and departing ferries thanks to its diverse gastronomy.
Yashima Plateau
The striking high plateau offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views over the island world of the Seto Inland Sea and, thanks to the historical Yashima-ji Temple and the untouched nature, is a perfect destination for a varied excursion into the surrounding area.
Ritsurin Garden
The magnificent Ritsurin Garden is reachable from the port in only about ten minutes by taxi or conveniently by train and is considered one of the most significant historical landscape gardens in Japan. The extensive grounds impress with six picturesque ponds, artistically designed bridges, and the imposing Mount Shiun in the background, which radiates a perfect atmosphere of peace. A visit to the traditional Kikugetsu-tei tea house also offers you an excellent opportunity to enjoy Japanese aesthetics directly by the water with a bowl of matcha. Ideally, plan your tour for the morning to experience the peaceful mood before the main visitor times and return to the port relaxed in the early afternoon.
The port of Takamatsu boasts an excellent location right by the city center, allowing you a stress-free and punctual return to the ship. Thanks to the clear layout of the Sunport area, you will find your way effortlessly at any time.
Taxi
A wide selection of taxis is available at the marked stands directly in front of JR Takamatsu Station and the JR Clement Hotel Takamatsu. The journey to the cruise terminal takes only a few minutes, and the drivers know the docking points in the Sunport district exactly, so you can reach your ship comfortably and directly.
Public Transport and Shuttle
The central bus stops at JR Takamatsu Station and the nearby Takamatsu-Chikko Station of the Kotoden Railway serve as ideal hubs for your return journey. Additionally, many cruise lines deploy shuttle buses as needed, which will take you from the main shopping streets or the Symbol Tower directly to the port's security area.
On Foot
From the adjacent Tamamo Park with the ruins of Takamatsu Castle or from the Symbol Tower, you can stroll back to the pier along the flat and wide harbor promenade. The path is excellently signposted and also offers you a wonderful view of the ferries and the Seto Inland Sea as you reach the ship directly in ten to fifteen minutes.
