Shikoku Village (Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Shikoku Mura is an outdoor folk museum that displays traditional houses and buildings that have been relocated and preserved from all over Shikoku. Traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, merchant houses, storehouses, wooden bridges, and more are arranged across a wide hilly area, allowing visitors to see the lifestyles and regional architectural characteristics of the Edo, Meiji, Taisho, and Showa periods all in one place. Surrounded by nature, visitors can get up close and personal with the details of the buildings and everyday tools, making it particularly popular with those who love architecture, folk culture, and photography. Seasonal events, exhibitions, and nighttime illuminations are sometimes held, allowing visitors to experience the charm of the four seasons while also experiencing history.

Highlights

• A group of relocated and preserved houses: You can compare the differences in roofs, gardens, and construction that vary from region to region.
• You can see thatched roofs and details of wooden buildings, as well as everyday items and structures such as beams, hearths, mosquito nets, and earthen floors.
• Old merchant houses and storehouses: You can see the construction, signs, and tools of old commercial and warehouse buildings.
• Outdoor scenery and walking paths: A relaxing environment where you can stroll through rural landscapes, seasonal flowers, and groves of trees.
• Special exhibits and events: There are exhibitions of folk tools, demonstrations of traditional crafts, seasonal illuminations, and workshops (please check for details).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

Shikokumura is located in Takamatsu City, and the main access routes are as follows. Please check the official website or each transportation company for the latest routes, timetables, and operation status.

• Train + Bus: JR Takamatsu Station is the closest major station. From Takamatsu Station, it is common to take a local bus, a sightseeing bus, or a taxi (travel time will vary depending on the mode of transportation and traffic congestion).
• Private railway: Kotoden (Takamatsu-Kotohira Electric Railway). Take a bus or taxi from any station.
• From the airport: Accessible from Takamatsu Airport by car, limousine bus, or taxi (travel time varies depending on traffic conditions).
• By car: Many locations have dedicated parking on-site, making it easy to visit even with a rental car. It is recommended to check the number of parking spaces and fees in advance.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short tour: 60-90 minutes (to have a quick look around the main buildings)
• A thorough tour: Approximately 2 hours (including tours of the interior of the building, photography, and viewing of special exhibits)
• When participating in an event: Depending on the content of the event, it may be a good idea to allow half a day for this.

Nearby spots

• Ritsurin Garden (Ritsurin Garden): A daimyo garden that represents Takamatsu. Many people visit it together with Shikokumura.
• Tamamo Park (Takamatsu Castle Ruins): A historical park known as a sea castle.
• Takamatsu Port and Sunport Area: Enjoy coastal walks, the ferry terminal, and plenty of restaurants.
• Yashima (tourist attraction): A little far away, but a spot where you can enjoy the view and historical sites.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: It can get crowded during Golden Week, summer vacation, the autumn tourist season, and when events are held. If you want to take your time exploring on the weekend, we recommend arriving early.
• Manners: Valuable cultural assets and folk tools are on display inside the building, so please observe basic etiquette such as not running, not touching, and observing no-photography areas.
• Photography: Photography is permitted in most areas, but there may be rules such as restrictions on the use of flash or tripods, or prohibition on photographing exhibits. Please follow the posted notices.
• Footwear and Clothing: The site is covered with cobblestones, dirt paths, steps, and narrow internal passages, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. The grounds can be slippery in rainy weather.
• Barrier-free access: Due to the traditional architectural structure, there are many steps and narrow passageways, so there may be restrictions on access for wheelchairs and strollers. Please check with the facility in advance.
• Pets: Generally, restrictions are placed on bringing pets (with the exception of service dogs, etc.). Please check the facility rules for details.
• Climate: The thatched roofs and wooden buildings can be hot in summer and bitterly cold in winter, so please dress appropriately for the season.

*The above access and facility information, event status, admission fees, etc. are subject to change. Please check the Shikokumura official website or Takamatsu City tourist information for the latest information before visiting.