Japan 2019 - Shikoku (part 1)

Another ferry and another island. Shikoku is the smallest of the four main islands of Japan. Many people come here to do the 88-temple pilgrimage on foot, bicycle or by bus.
Takamatsu is a bustling, tidy town with a nice harbour and lots of green spaces. The city’s major tourist attraction is Ritsurin Garden, which is one of the most famous historical gardens in Japan, dating back to 1625.

The ferries are very comfortable, inexpensive and always on time. Extra charge for bicycles is just a few dollars.

Takamatsu cyclists get lots of space.

Ritsurin Garden has lots of ponds, bridges, orchards, even tea houses....

... and a waterfall that gets turned off at night.

How very thoughtful!

From Takamatsu we travelled west through the Sanuki Plain. Due to a lack of water, local farmers grow wheat instead of rice. Sanuki Udon is therefore a speciality of the region - perfect for a lunch break!