Yashima (屋島, lit. "roof island") is a flat-topped mountain just outside of Takamatsu's city center. It was the site of a famous battle during the Gempei War in the 12th century between the Taira and Minamoto clans. Here the Taira were defeated in what was to be the last battle before their final destruction.
Around the flat summit are some attractions related to the former battleground, including a monument to the Battle of Yashima and Chinoike ("blood pond"), a pond which is said to have turned red with blood after the victorious Minamoto washed their swords in it.
Yashima offers great views of Takamatsu and of the Seto Inland Sea. Near the many viewpoints around the mountaintop are shops where you can buy small clay discs, which are thrown off the mountain for luck. This is meant to symbolize the victorious Minamoto warriors throwing off their headpieces after defeating the Taira.
Near the summit's parking area is Yashima Temple, the 84th of the 88 temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. In addition to a number of buildings, each seemingly of a different era, the temple also has a modern museum which displays artifacts from Yashima's history.
About a five minute walk from Yashima Temple is the New Yashima Aquarium (currently closed for renovations until spring 2027). At the base of Yashima lies Shikoku Mura, an open air museum exhibiting traditional houses, bridges and other structures from all over Shikoku.
Getting there and around
The attractions on Yashima are located within walking distance of each other around the mountain's flat summit. Yashima can be reached from central Takamatsu by Kotoden or JR.
By Kotoden
Take a train from Takamatsu-Chikko Station to Kawaramachi Station (5 minutes, frequent departures) and transfer to the Shido Line. Get off at Kotoden Yashima Station (15 minutes, 3 trains/hour). The entire trip takes about 30 minutes and costs 360 yen. From the station, the Yashima Sanjo Shuttle bus runs once per hour to the summit (10 minutes, 200 yen).
By Japan Railways (JR)
Take a local train from JR Takamatsu Station in the direction of Tokushima to Yashima Station (15 minutes, 280 yen, 1-2 trains/hour). From the station the Yashima Sanjo Shuttle bus runs once per hour to the summit (20 minutes, 200 yen).
By rental car
A former toll road, the Yashima Skyway, leads to the top of Yashima. It is now free of charge to use and is open from 6:30 to 22:00, but parking costs 300 yen.
How to get to and around Takamatsu
Hours and Fees
Yashima Temple Museum
Hours
Closed
Admission
Temple museum: 500 yen
New Yashima Aquarium
Closed
Questions? Ask in our forum.
Links and Resources
Hotels around Takamatsu
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Kitahama SumiyoshiView on Booking.comSpacious Accommodations
Kitahama Sumiyoshi in Takamatsu offers spacious rooms with air-conditioning, kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and tatami floors. Guests enjoy inner courtyard views and a ground-floor unit.Modern Amenities
The guest house provides free WiFi, a kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, stovetop, and toaster. Additional features include a dining table, work desk, and free toiletries.Convenient Location
Located 18 km from Takamatsu Airport, the property offers free off-site private parking. Reception staff speak English and Japanese.Guest Satisfaction
Highly rated for room and bathroom comfort, guests appreciate the spaciousness and attentive host. -
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Guest House WakabayaView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Guest House Wakabaya in Takamatsu offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and tatami floors. Each room includes free WiFi, free toiletries, slippers, and a work desk.Convenient Facilities
Guests can enjoy a lounge, shared kitchen, and concierge service. Additional amenities include bicycle parking, bike hire, and luggage storage. Free on-site private parking is available.Guest Satisfaction
Highly rated for its friendly host, family-friendly environment, and room cleanliness. Reception staff speak English, French, and Japanese. Takamatsu Airport is 17 km away. -
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Ten to Sen GuesthouseView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Ten to Sen Guesthouse in Takamatsu offers adults-only rooms with air-conditioning, balconies, and parquet floors. Each room includes a work desk, hairdryer, and slippers.Exceptional Facilities
Guests enjoy free WiFi, a terrace, bar, and free bicycles. Additional amenities include a lounge, shared kitchen, and luggage storage.Engaging Activities
The guesthouse hosts pub crawls and film nights, providing entertainment for all visitors.Convenient Location
Located 16 km from Takamatsu Airport, the property is highly rated for its attentive staff, room cleanliness, and convenient location. -
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SetonejuanView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Setonejuan in Takamatsu offers family rooms with air-conditioning, bidets, and free toiletries. Each room includes a refrigerator, microwave, and wardrobe.Essential Facilities
Guests enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a lounge, and a garden. Free bicycles are available for exploring the surroundings.Delicious Breakfast
A daily Asian breakfast is served, catering to special diets. The property also provides a variety of menus to suit all preferences.Convenient Location
Located 30 km from Takamatsu Airport, Setonejuan is highly rated for its friendly host, excellent breakfast, and suitability for nature trips. -
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Sunny Day HostelView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Sunny Day Hostel in Takamatsu offers family rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and soundproofing. Each room includes a work desk, refrigerator, and wardrobe.Essential Facilities
Guests enjoy free WiFi, a sun terrace, and a balcony. Additional amenities include a terrace, private open-air bath, and a coffee shop.Convenient Services
The hostel provides a daily housekeeping service, luggage storage, and breakfast in the room. Menus for special diets are available.Prime Location
Located 17 km from Takamatsu Airport, the property is situated on a quiet street with a scenic view. -
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JR Hotel Clement TakamatsuJR Hotel Clement Takamatsu features 7 dining options, free WiFi while certain rooms feature panoramic sea and city views, a 1-minute stroll from JR Takamatsu Station. It offers massages and a hairdresser, and it boasts a fresh bakery. Located next to Kagawa International Conference Hall, the Clement Takamatsu JR Hotel is also in front of a ferry terminal that brings you to Shikoku or Shodoshima Island. Takamatsu Castle is a 10-minute walk. Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea (Seto Naikai), Western and Japanese rooms are all air-conditioned and soundproof, each fitted with a flat-screen TV, a fridge and an electric kettle. They have a seating area and a bathroom including a bathtub and toiletries. Facilities at the Takamatsu Clement include a souvenir shop. Dry cleaning service and luggage storage are available. Bar Astro offers original and popular cocktails, as well as snacks, with panoramic views from the 21st floor. Caf? & Restaurant Vent offers a buffet with a variety of Western and Japanese meals, for breakfast, lunch and dinner, while other restaurants offer Western-style, Japanese or authentic Cantonese cuisine.View on Booking.com -
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fav TAKAMATSUView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
fav TAKAMATSU in Takamatsu offers spacious rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a terrace, and a lift for easy access.Convenient Facilities
The hotel provides free toiletries, a work desk, and a kitchenette. Additional features include a washing machine, tatami floors, and a sofa, ensuring a pleasant stay.Prime Location
Located 16 km from Takamatsu Airport, the hotel is highly rated for its kitchen, room comfort, and room size. Paid on-site private parking is available, along with bicycle parking. -
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Traditional Apartment Takamatsu GuesthouseView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Traditional Apartment Takamatsu Guesthouse in Takamatsu offers comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and garden views. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free WiFi.Exceptional Facilities
Guests enjoy a bar, coffee shop, and free WiFi. Additional amenities include a washing machine, microwave, and private entrance. The property provides private check-in and check-out, a paid shuttle service, and a tour desk.Convenient Location
Located 16 km from Takamatsu Airport, the guesthouse is highly rated for its room cleanliness, staff support, and comfort. Nearby attractions include Shikoku Mura and Ritsurin Garden.Activities and Services
The guesthouse offers yoga and fitness classes, cycling, and executive lounge access. Additional services include car hire, luggage storage, and streaming services. -
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Konyamachi Guest House KukuView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Konyamachi Guest House Kuku in Takamatsu offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and kitchenettes. Each room includes a washing machine, dining area, and work desk.Essential Facilities
Guests enjoy free WiFi, a terrace, and private check-in and check-out services. Additional amenities include bicycle parking, a shared bathroom, and a TV.Convenient Location
Located 17 km from Takamatsu Airport, the guest house is near public transport options. Highly rated for its cleanliness, comfortable beds, and nearby transport. -
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Comfort Hotel TakamatsuView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Comfort Hotel Takamatsu in Takamatsu offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and soundproofing for a pleasant stay.Essential Facilities
Guests enjoy free WiFi, free bicycles, and a lift. Additional services include a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, express check-in and check-out, and luggage storage.Dining Experience
A buffet breakfast is served daily, highly appreciated by guests. The child-friendly buffet caters to families with young children.Convenient Location
Located 16 km from Takamatsu Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as Ritsurin Garden and Shikoku Mura. Paid on-site private parking is available.
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