A Journey Designed for You

[3 Days] Nov 7-9 Only: A Curated Journey Through Kagawa: Exclusive Garden Dining and Encounters with Master Artisans

A Quiet Encounter with Japan’s Spiritual Heritage

This exclusive journey offers rare access to Ritsurin Garden at night, vegan tea kaiseki dining, and firsthand experiences with lacquer, ceramic, and bonsai craftsmanship passed down through the generations.

*This tour is only available from November 7 to 9, 2025.

location_on Takamatsu, Kagawa

event_available3 Days

account_balance_walletfrom ¥594,000 / person

group1 - 8 participants

record_voice_over Available in English

event_available Cancel free up to 31 days prior

*This tour will include multiple groups of participants.

*If fewer than 2 participants, the minimum fee will be JPY 1,188,000.

*Please note that the final price may vary depending on the options.

*Please note that accommodation fees are not included in the tour price.

Destinations

Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture

Takamatsu is a historic castle town that preserves the spirit of Kagawa’s feudal past when it was ruled by the powerful Matsudaira clan. Overseeing the tranquil Seto Inland Sea, it is known for its Japanese handicrafts, traditional gardens, and ancient temples, combining sophistication with serene simplicity.

Experience Themes

Through Guide

Japan expert Alex Kerr will lead the tour from November 7 to 9, 2025, providing in-depth, captivating commentary about regional history and culture.

Exclusive Venue

Enjoy exclusive experiences like a dinner at the rented-out Kikugetsu-tei in Ritsurin Park and a guided tour through the non-public areas of Honen-ji temple.

Japanese Cuisine

Experience Kagawa’s unique and delightful food culture through vegan tea kaiseki from the traditional Nicho restaurant and other dishes enjoyed at local establishments.

Traditional Culture

Feel like a feudal lord and experience Japanese spirituality through the tea ceremony and local worship at Ritsurin Park, Honen-ji temple, and other picturesque locales.

Arts & Crafts

Gain a deeper understanding of Kagawa aesthetics through Rihei ware ceramics and visits to The Kagawa Museum, the Kagawa Urushi Lacquerware Institute, and the Nakanishi Chinshoen bonsai garden.

Journey Outline

Day 1

Spend a day exploring the history and crafts of Kagawa. Admire exhibits about the feudal lords of Takamatsu, learn about local lacquerware, and appreciate Rihei ware ceramics.

Dinner: Choose from several local restaurants.

Day 2

Start your day with an exclusive tour of Honen-ji temple led by its former head priest, after which explore Ritsurin Park with a master gardener. In the evening, visit Kikugetsu-tei and savor a refined vegan tea kaiseki in a tranquil and historic setting, immersing yourself in Kagawa’s culture and aesthetics.

Lunch: Sanuki Udon, Kagawa’s famous thick wheat noodles

Day 3

Finish your journey in Kinashi, the spiritual home of bonsai. Learn about the art from master craftsmen at Nakanishi Chinshoen, who will teach you about the philosophy and artistry behind this centuries-old tradition. Say goodbye to Kagawa while surrounded by its natural heritage.

Curated Cultural Journey

Day 113:00-14:00 The Kagawa Museum

A Curated Art Viewing with an Expert by Your Side

At The Kagawa Museum, you will view exquisite artifacts linked to Takamatsu’s Matsudaira feudal lords, including rare crafts, historical documents, and more. An experienced curator will provide expert commentary during your journey of discovery, offering rare insights into the refined aesthetics that have shaped modern Kagawa.

14:30-16:00　 Kagawa Urushi Lacquerware Institute

Touch Kagawa Heritage Through Hands-on Lacquerware Experiences

The Kagawa Urushi Lacquerware Institute, Japan’s first public organization dedicated to lacquer (urushi) art, preserves and advances rare local techniques such as fine-line engraving (kinma), carving lacquer (choshitsu), and color urushi with gold and other metal leaf craftwork (zonsei). Discover masterworks made by renowned craftsmen of the Edo (1603 - 1868) and Meiji (1868 - 1912) periods, as well as modern Living National Treasures. This tour includes expert-led viewing of rarely seen pieces and a hands-on experience with Kagawa lacquerwork.

16:30-18:00　Rihei Ware

Enjoy a Rihei Ware Painting Experience with Commentary from a 14th-Generation Master Craftsman

Rihei ware is a refined ceramic tradition introduced to Kagawa by the first Takamatsu lord, Matsudaira Yorishige. It is characterized by its elegant forms and intricate painted decorations, which you will get to understand better during a special viewing of historic Rihei masterpieces accompanied by insights from the 14th-generation head of this unique Kagawa craft. You will also try your hand at Rihei brush painting, creating your own piece of Kagawa heritage.

RestaurantRecommended Meals

Dinner will be served at one of Kagawa’s leading French, Italian, or sushi restaurants. Choose between an elegant and memorable dining experience rooted in the culture of the region and featuring sophisticated French or Italian dishes that showcase the seasonal bounty of the Seto Inland Sea, or traditional Edomae-style sushi made from fresh local fish.

Day 210:0-11:30　 Honen-ji Temple

Explore Honen-ji During a Guided Tour Led by the Temple’s Former Head Priest

Honen-ji was originally the Matsudaira family temple and remains an important site of Pure Land Buddhism. From the main gate to the five-storied pagoda and main hall, its grounds combine the beauty of human ingenuity with tranquility and deep spirituality. With the temple’s former head priest as your guide, you will gain rare access to areas normally closed off to outsiders.

17:00-18:00　 Ritsurin Park

A Quiet Stroll Through a Masterpiece of Garden Design

Once a retreat of the Matsudaira lords, Ritsurin Park is Japan’s largest designated cultural property garden. Within the park, pine trees, seasonal flowers, ponds, and sculpted hills are all skillfully arranged to create a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. It is often said that the three Michelin-star site offers visitors a new, unique landscape with each step they take. Discover them all on a guided tour with a master gardener.

18:00-20:30　Kikugetsu-tei

Kikugetsu-tei After Hours: Taste Tea Kaiseki in Total Tranquility

Located on the grounds of Ritsurin Park, Kikugetsu-tei was built in the early Edo Period (17th century) as a place of respite for the Takamatsu feudal lords. It is today considered one of Japan’s greatest teahouses. Spend an unforgettable time at Kikugetsu-tei at night when the park is normally closed, a unique experience available only to participants of this tour. Surrounded by the serenity of nature, guests will be able to enjoy tranquil luxury and beauty with a vegan tea kaiseki meal provided by Nicho, Takamatsu’s long-established traditional restaurant.

Day310:30-12:30　Nakanishi Chinshoen

Miniature Trees, Grand Tradition: Discover the Art of Bonsai at Nakanishi Chinshoen

In Takamatsu’s Kinashi, Japan’s top bonsai production area known as the “sacred land” of the miniature trees, visitors will find Nakanishi Chinshoen, a bonsai garden founded over 130 years ago. Guided by expert staff, you will stroll through its lush green fields and learn about the aesthetics, history, and meticulous artistry behind this ancient Japanese craft.

Custom Accommodation Options Upon Request

Accommodations in Takamatsu City and surrounding areas can be arranged upon request. We are happy to suggest options that best suit your travel style and budget. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

*Please note that accommodation fees are not included in the tour price.

*If your preferred lodging is fully booked, we will recommend suitable alternatives nearby.

Alex Kerr

Alex Kerr, an American-born expert on East Asian culture, has been working tirelessly since 1977 to preserve and share Japan's traditions. He first came to the country in 1964, later studying at Yale and Oxford before settling in Kyoto. In 1973, he bought and restored a 300-year-old thatched house in Tokushima's Iya Valley, now home to the Chiiori Trust that he leads. Dividing his time between Kyoto and Bangkok, Kerr writes, lectures, and restores historic homes, offering rare insights into Japan's vanishing beauty through his unique blend of local knowledge and global expertise.

Things to know

How It Works	Contact us Please contact us through the itinerary Request form on the bottom of this page. Plan your trip We will customize your accommodations and transportation according to your preferences. Confirm and book Please confirm your booking after reviewing the details. Visit to Japan / Conduct Enjoy your stay in Japan.
Booking Deadline	Bookings should generally be made at least 7 days in advance. For requests made closer to the experience date, please contact us for availability.
Number of Participants	Up to 8 people per booking The minimum guarantee charge will be applied if the requested number of guests is less than 2 people. When selecting accommodation options, please note that depending on your choice, your group may be split into two separate rooms.
Cancellation Policy	Our cancellation policy allows for a full refund if you cancel your booking 31 days before the experience date. Please contact us before 05:00 PM (JST). Important Notes: Changes to the reservation (including number of guests or schedule) are not permitted after the cancellation policy takes effect. If you wish to make changes, please contact us before the cancellation policy applies. Please note that accommodations and transportation arrangements are subject to separate cancellation policies. We will inform you of any such cases when we share your detailed itinerary. Due to the busy season, please note that if you contact us less than 20 days before the tour date, it may be difficult to arrange accommodations.
Guest Requirements	Minimum age: 10 years old Adult rate applies to 10 years old and over　 Minors under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult guardian over 18 years of age.
Further Remarks	Please note that accommodation fees are not included in the tour price. If your preferred lodging is fully booked, we will recommend suitable alternatives nearby. This plan includes fees under the following categories: - Itinerary Planning Fee: Category C The Kagawa Museum Please store your belongings in a coin locker. (Large items such as suitcases can also be kept at the museum.) Pets are not allowed. (Assistance dogs are welcome.) Wheelchairs and baby strollers are available for rent. Please ask our staff if needed. Photography and filming are permitted during the experience. (Video recording is not allowed.) Clothing and footwear that are easy to walk around in are recommended. (e.g. pants and sneakers) Please remove accessories (rings, earrings, necklaces, etc.) during the experience. Please refrain from using strong perfumes, as they may affect the collection. Kagawa Urushi Lacquerware Institute Please note that guests with lacquer allergies cannot participate. As knives are used during the experience, please take extra care if participating with children. Photography and filming are permitted during the experience. The experience in the venue is conducted with shoes removed. Guests are asked to wear socks to avoid going barefoot. Shoes that are easy to take off are recommended. Please wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Clothing and footwear that are easy to walk around in are recommended. (e.g. pants and sneakers) Rihei Ware Experience The experience in the venue is conducted with shoes removed. Guests are asked to wear socks or stockings to avoid going barefoot. Please wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Photography and filming are permitted during the experience. The painting activity may finish earlier depending on the pace of each participant. Please do not touch any of the displayed works. ＜Shipping fee＞ Domestic shipping within Japan is available. While Wabunka is able to offer basic assistance, we are not responsible for any issues encountered after your package has been shipped. The delivery schedule may be subject to delays depending on various circumstances. If a package is returned to the sender due to non-receipt, the reshipping cost will be the responsibility of the guest. If we are unable to reach the guest and the package is returned to the sender, the item may be disposed of at our discretion. Thank you for your understanding. Honen-ji Temple Please be aware that wild animals (dogs, cats, monkeys, etc.) may be present in the area. Honen-ji cannot take responsibility for any related incidents. Photography of Buddhist statues alone is not permitted. (Photos including people are acceptable.) Photography is also prohibited in the Matsudaira family cemetery and mausoleum (otamaya). Shoes must be removed in the experience area. Going barefoot is acceptable, but guests who prefer otherwise are encouraged to bring socks. Clothing and footwear that are easy to walk around in are recommended. (e.g. pants and sneakers) Kikugetsu-tei Chairs are available for those who may find sitting in the traditional seiza position difficult. Please let us know on the day. There is no dress code. Guests are asked to wear socks to avoid going barefoot. New socks are available for guests if needed. (Wearing skirts or pants that are long enough to cover the knees is required.) Clothing and footwear that are easy to walk around in are recommended. (e.g. pants and sneakers) Please remove accessories (rings, earrings, necklaces, etc.) during the experience. Photography and filming are permitted during the experience. Please refrain from driving to, or after, your visit.

Itinerary Request

A Journey Designed for You

[3 Days] Nov 7-9 Only: A Curated Journey Through Kagawa: Exclusive Garden Dining and Encounters with Master Artisans

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