Japan Takamatsu｜An Unexpected Treasure City

An Unexpected Treasure City Although I missed the Setouchi Triennale which happens every two years, both the city and the island hopping are filled with an artistic atmosphere. Choosing this place as a buffer after returning from America was a wise decision. It helped me reacquaint myself with Asian culture, Asian cuisine, and Asian faces, experiencing the cleanest, most tranquil, and most artisanal side of East Asia. Day 1 Tokyo-Takamatsu An early flight means a long day to enjoy. Kagawa Prefecture is the hometown of Slowpoke, and you can see its presence everywhere. After checking in, I immediately rushed to eat Sanuki Udon. Delicious and healthy! In the evening, I had Japanese pork cutlet rice. Ritsurin Garden is the most famous park in the city. The green gardens are especially precious in the city. You can row a boat or feed the fish. I thought there wasn't much to see in Takamatsu, but I was completely wrong. There are plenty of things to buy! Tamamo Park is by the sea, where you can see the Seto Inland Sea and the passing ships. It's very comfortable. Day 2 Takamatsu-Naoshima I didn't expect so many tourists on Naoshima! Of course, the first stop is Yayoi Kusama's Red Pumpkin, but I think the yellow one looks better. Then I recommend Hiroshi Sugimoto's Time Corridor. The outdoor glass teahouse is so pure, and you can also enjoy traditional Japanese sweets and tea. Then there's the Chichu Art Museum (with works by Monet and Tadao Ando) and finally the Lee Ufan Museum. Besides the seaside, the island is full of art museums. As long as you check the timetable or ride a bike, transportation is not a problem. Art lovers must visit. The slow boat is also very comfortable. In the evening, I found a local izakaya and had grilled chicken thighs (bone-in chicken). Day 3 Takamatsu-Teshima A smaller island with fewer tourists than Naoshima. A fast boat takes half an hour to get there. The Teshima Art Museum (and café) and the Heartbeat Museum are worth checking out. On the last day of the gap season, I chose to record my heartbeat and make it into a CD. There's a strawberry dessert shop on the island with super delicious shaved ice, just a 5-minute walk from the pier. The island is so quiet, it really feels like time stands still. Day 4 Leaving Takamatsu to return home. It was indeed very hot these days, but taking beautiful photos made me very happy. This trip is coming to an end, a million times unwilling to leave.