Takamatsu Port serves as the primary maritime gateway to Shikoku Island and stands as one of Japan's most historically significant ports. Located in Kagawa Prefecture on the Seto Inland Sea, the port has functioned as a crucial transportation hub since the Edo period, when it connected Shikoku to Honshu and facilitated trade throughout the region. The port modernized significantly during the Meiji era and continues to play a vital role in connecting the four main islands of the Seto Inland Sea through regular ferry services.
The port area combines functional maritime infrastructure with cultural attractions that reflect Takamatsu's identity as a castle town and coastal city. The Symbol Tower, standing at 151 meters, dominates the waterfront and houses the Kagawa Prefectural Government offices, observation decks, and the Setouchi Triennale information center. The tower offers panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and its scattered islands. Adjacent to the port, the Sunport Takamatsu complex integrates shopping facilities, restaurants, and public spaces that attract both travelers and locals.
Visitors experience Takamatsu Port primarily as a departure point for island-hopping adventures across the Seto Inland Sea. Regular ferry services connect to Naoshima, Teshima, Shodoshima, and other art islands that gained international recognition through the Setouchi International Art Festival. The port also operates high-speed ferries to destinations including Kobe and serves as a practical base for exploring nearby attractions such as Ritsurin Garden, located approximately 2 kilometers from the terminal.
The port is accessible via a 10-minute walk from JR Takamatsu Station or through the direct underground passage that connects the station to Sunport. Multiple bus routes serve the area, and bicycle rentals are readily available for exploring the waterfront. Ferry tickets can be purchased at the terminal building, with prices varying by destination—typical fares to Naoshima range from ¥520 to ¥1,200 depending on the vessel type. The port facilities are free to access, though individual attractions within the Symbol Tower or museum exhibitions may charge separate admission fees.
