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Marugame

Marugame, Kagawa, Japan

Escape to Marugame: Where History Meets Charm on the Seto Inland Sea Nestled on the picturesque Seto Inland Sea coast, Marugame, Kagawa, Japan, offers a delightful blend of historical intrigue, natural beauty, and authen…

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Marugame.

Top Hotels in Marugame

Top Flights to Marugame

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Marugame.

Tours

Explore Marugame Castle

Visit one of Japan's 12 original castles, offering a panoramic view of the city from its hilltop location.

Visit Nakatsu Banshoen

A famous Japanese garden that showcases the beauty of seasonal plants and koi ponds.

Kagawa Museum Visit

Explore the historical artifacts and art in Kagawa's top museum.

Explore Marugame Genichiro-Inokuma Museum of Contemporary Art

Discover unique contemporary artworks in a modern architectural space.

Shopping

Marugame Market Shopping

Discover local crafts and food at the Marugame market.

Outdoor

Scenic Bike Ride around Nio Peninsula

Enjoy a scenic bike ride around the beautiful Nio Peninsula with breathtaking ocean views.

Enjoy Outdoor Picnics at Ayauta Park

Have a delightful picnic in the large green spaces of Ayauta Park, perfect for families and couples.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Marugame.

Currency
¥ | JPY | Japanese Yen
Population
Information not available.
Languages
Japanese, Japanese
Average weather
Marugame
Jan
cold
9°1°
Feb
cold
10°2°
Mar
cloud
14°5°
Apr
clear
19°10°
May
sun
24°15°
Jun
rain
27°20°
Jul
hot
31°24°
Aug
hot
33°25°
Sep
rain
29°21°
Oct
clear
23°15°
Nov
cloud
17°9°
Dec
cold
12°4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Marugame.

What people love

Marugame, located in Kagawa Prefecture in Japan, offers a unique and authentic Japanese experience for travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Marugame:

  1. Marugame Castle: The main attraction in Marugame is its impressive castle, which offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal history. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top.

  2. Udon Noodles: Marugame is famous for its delicious udon noodles, which are a staple of Japanese cuisine. Travelers can enjoy freshly made udon noodles at local restaurants and experience the unique flavors of this traditional dish.

  3. Cultural Experiences: Marugame offers opportunities to experience traditional Japanese culture, such as participating in tea ceremonies, trying on kimono, and visiting local temples and shrines.

  4. Scenic Views: Marugame is situated along the Seto Inland Sea, offering beautiful coastal views and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and beachcombing.

  5. Local Festivals: Throughout the year, Marugame hosts various festivals and events that showcase the local culture and traditions. Travelers can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of these celebrations.

Overall, traveling to Marugame provides a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors.

What to know

Information not available.

Marugame is a city located in Kagawa Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, Japan. The city has a rich history, marked by its development during the feudal era and its significance in the region.

Historical Overview

  1. Feudal Era:

    • Marugame is best known for Marugame Castle, one of the twelve original castles in Japan that have survived since the Edo period. The castle was constructed in 1597 by Ikoma Chikamasa, a significant daimyo of the time. The castle is notable for its high stone walls and its keep, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding area.
    • During the Edo period, Marugame was a significant center of commerce and governance. The area was part of the Sanuki Province and became the seat of the Marugame Domain, which was ruled by various feudal lords, including the Kyogoku and the Yamazaki clans.

  2. Meiji Restoration and Modernization:

    • The Meiji Restoration in 1868 led to the abolition of the feudal domain system, and Marugame transitioned into the modern municipal system established in the Meiji period.
    • Marugame officially became a city on April 1, 1899.

  3. World War II:

    • Like many Japanese cities, Marugame experienced hardships during World War II, including air raids that affected the city's infrastructure.

  4. Post-war Period:

    • After the war, Marugame developed as an industrial hub, focusing on textiles, chemicals, and machinery.
    • The city has also capitalized on its cultural heritage and historical sites, boosting tourism.

Significant Figures

  • Ikoma Chikamasa: A prominent daimyo who constructed Marugame Castle.
  • Kyogoku Takatoyo: A lord of the Marugame Domain during the Edo period.

Important Landmarks

  1. Marugame Castle:

    • One of the few original castles left in Japan, known for its steep stone walls and wooden keep. It is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the city.

  2. Marugame Genichiro-Inokuma Museum of Contemporary Art:

    • Founded by Genichiro Inokuma, a prominent Japanese painter, the museum houses a collection of contemporary art and offers insight into modern Japanese artistic movements.

  3. Honjima Island:

    • Part of the Shiwaku Islands, Honjima is known for its historical significance as a base for the Shiwaku Navy during the Edo period. It offers beautiful sceneries and historical sites related to the island’s naval history.

  4. Uchiwa no Minato Museum:

    • Marugame is famous for producing "uchiwa" (traditional Japanese fans). This museum showcases the history and techniques of fan-making in the city.

Cultural Significance

  • Uchiwa Fans:

    • Marugame is renowned for its production of traditional Japanese fans, accounting for a significant portion of the nation's fan output.

  • Local Festivals:

    • Various local festivals celebrate the region's heritage, including events at Marugame Castle and traditional Shinto festivities.

Marugame has retained its historical charm while embracing modernity, making it a unique location that reflects the broader history and culture of Japan.