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Kotohira Travel

Curated Itineraries

Explore the Seto Inland Sea's Stunning Views by Car. Western Region Scenic Route | Half-Day Course

1day

Discover Kagawa's western scenic gems on a half-day car tour. Visit a breathtaking shrine, Japan's largest sand art, and the Seto Inland Sea's premier sunset destination to experience the region's diverse charm.

Sunset times change seasonally. When visiting Chichibugahama Beach for sunset viewing, please check the sunset time beforehand.

＼Local Guide／

KNUT Kotori Kotohira volunteer staff

Originally from Norway. Currently staying in Japan on a working holiday while studying Japanese.
On days off, he enjoys exploring around Kotori Kotomine. His goal is to visit all 47 prefectures of Japan during his stay.

Course Details

  1. DAY.112:00

    Depart Kotori Kotohira Rental car

    Drive about 30 minutes

  2. DAY.112:30

    Kanakuma Mochi 11-gosen

    A unique udon restaurant that brings together a udon shop, mochi shop, and side dish counter under one roof.

    Udon noodles made with an abundance of ingredients from Kagawa Prefecture

    A unique udon restaurant that brings together a udon shop, mochi shop, and side dish counter under one roof.
    Don't miss their signature "Kanemochi Udon"—we highly recommend choosing "An Mochi" (sweet red bean mochi) as your topping.
    The addictive sweet-and-salty flavor combination paired with the delightful contrast between chewy mochi and firm noodles has earned this place a devoted following.

    Name
    Kanakuma Mochi 11-gosen
    Address
    35-2 Ueda-cho, Kanonji City, Kagawa
    Opening Hours
    8:00～18:00（Ends when the balls run out.）
    Closed
    日曜日

    Drive about 10 minutes

  3. DAY.113:10

    Takaya shrine (Shimomiya)

    Hike up the mountain to discover breathtaking scenery!

    The gateway to the "Sky Torii Gate"

    A step towards breathtaking views begins here.

    This prestigious shrine, listed in the Engishiki (an ancient Japanese legal code), has long been affectionately known locally as "Inazumi-san."

    For those unable to reach the summit due to physical limitations or time constraints, a "remote worship area" has been set up at the lower shrine for worshipping the main shrine. It is believed that praying here will grant the same blessings.

    Name
    Takaya shrine (Shimomiya)
    Address
    香川県観音寺市高屋町2730

    Walk 50 min

  4. DAY.114:00

    Takaya shrine (Honguu)

    Scenic Shrine Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea.

    Scenic Shrine Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. Perched at the mountain's peak, Takaya Shrine commands sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea and Kanonji's cityscape. The stunning vista framed by the vermillion torii gate has earned the nickname "Heavenly Torii Gate," transforming it into one of Kagawa's premier sightseeing destinations, drawing pilgrims from throughout the nation.

    Name
    Takaya shrine (Honguu)

    Drive about 10 minutes

  5. DAY.116:30

    Zenigata Sunae "Kanei Tsuuhou"

    One of Japan's largest sand painting power spots.

    A giant sand painting measuring 345 meters in circumference.

    One of Japan's largest sand painting power spots. Created on Ariake Beach's white sands, this impressive artwork spans 122 meters east-west, 90 meters north-south, with a circumference of 345 meters. Legend has it that viewing this sand painting brings health, longevity, and financial abundance, making it a popular destination for those seeking good fortune.

    Name
    Zenigata Sunae "Kanei Tsuuhou"
    Address
    香川県観音寺市有明町14

    Drive about 10 minutes

  6. DAY.117:15

    Chichibugahama

    Chichibugahama Beach is a stunning long beach located in Mitoyo, Kagawa.

    Magic hour before sunset

    Chichibugahama Beach is a stunning long beach located in Mitoyo, Kagawa. During low tide at sunset, it transforms into a mirror-like surface where you can capture breathtaking photos reminiscent of Bolivia's famous Salar de Uyuni salt flat—a sight that has gone viral on social media!

    Name
    Chichibugahama
    Address
    273-1 Nio-Otsu, Nio-cho, Mitoyo City, Kagawa

    Drive about 40 minutes

  7. DAY.119:30

    Arrive Kotori Kotohira Finish

    For rental car only users: Please return by 6:00 PM.
    For guests staying at Kotori Kotomine: Return time can be arranged. Please feel free to contact us.