I’ll be in Japan for 2 weeks in November with my GF, and we both love Udon. Mostly spending time in Tokyo for work/other reasons, but we have 4 days in Osaka to enjoy!
We saw something about Kagawa having great Udon, and as we were going to hit up a few places in Osaka, we don’t mind taking the train to somewhere in Kagawa for some beautiful scenery, a castle and Udon.
Are we crazy in planning this? Does anyone else have other Udon suggestions? (I know most people want ramen tips, but I don’t see many Udon tips!) And are there any tips for the train to Kawaga if we go? I’ve only spent time in Tokyo before (work stuff)
Thanks!
Edit:. Yes, we have the JR pass, and we’re interested in seeing what else can be found in the area! (Nature, history, anything:) )
8 comments
I wouldn’t do Kagawa day trip from Osaka just for Udon, but if you combined with other sight like Kotohira and Okayama it might be worth it, especially if you have JR Pass.
My recommendation in Kagawa would be Hinode Seimenjo. https://www.hinode.net/ But not sure how you would fare if you don’t know Japanese.
returned from Japan (sigh) 4 days ago. had the best udon I’ve ever had on my 2 trips to that amazing country. place was in Ginza, iirc it had 8 seats, order at ticket machine wait in line and glory hallelujah best fn udon I’ve ever had. don’t know the name but can tell you exactly where it is (near Marriott AC Hotel)
I feel that over 2h one way is a bit much for a daytrip and Takamatsu is 2h30 away… so is it worth spending 5 hours in the train for udon… ?
Udon is honestly quite a common local specialty, like houto in Kawaguchiko, check this article for regional udon variety, many prefectures are listed [https://www.tsunagujapan.com/all-about-udon-and-its-regional-varieties/](https://www.tsunagujapan.com/all-about-udon-and-its-regional-varieties/)
In my opinon, it isn’t unless you plan an extra sidetrip around it. Osaka to Takamatsu takes 2 hours 20 minutes even when using the Shinkansen. If you’re going to go that far, you may as well add Kurashiki onto your plans.
Yes go to Kagawa to enjoy Kagawa and see a part of Japan that doesn’t get as many tourists. The udon is just a good excuse. Takamatsu is a cute city. There’s a nice traditional garden (Ritsurin) with retiree volunteers who would love to practice their English on you and show you around. You’ll probably have way more fun than you would in Osaka.
4 hour bus ride from Osaka–not ideal for a daytrip. I would however recommend spending more time in Kagawa than Osaka. The udon in Kagawa is next level. And some locals really do eat udon for breakfast, lunch, dessert, and dinner.
If you are not a huge Udon fan, no. There’s plenty of places elsewhere that will serve great Udon probably even Kagawa style.
Getting the local food is more something of the travel experience. Just makes it taste a lot better. However, if you feel like going to Kagawa/Shikoku it’s definitely not a bad choice and might as well grab a bowl while you are there. Day trip might be pretty tight though, better stay a night.
If you’re there before the 6th the Setouchi Art Trienalle is on the islands around Kagawa