Kan'onji(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Kannon-ji City, the Kannon-ji Onsen Ryokan stands out for its authentic Japanese atmosphere, offering private open-air baths and traditional kaiseki dining. Located near Takamatsu Port, it’s within walking distance of the Kannon-ji Castle Ruins and perfect for travelers seeking cultural immersion. Another excellent choice is Hotel Kankō, situated beside the Kagawa Prefectural Art Museum, blending modern design with local art installations—ideal for guests who value both comfort and creativity.

The central Kannon-ji District and Takamatsu Port Area are ideal for lodging. The former is close to Kannon-ji Station, with easy access to restaurants and shops, while the latter offers sea views and morning harbor vibes. Staying along Kōten-dōri Street puts you just minutes from Kannon-ji Castle Ruins and the Kagawa Prefectural Art Museum, combining convenience with cultural richness and coastal ambiance.

Visitors should explore the morning fish market at Takamatsu Port, where they can select fresh seafood and have it prepared by their hotel. Don’t miss the Takamatsu Port Night Lantern Festival (held annually in October) or a cherry blossom viewing at Kannon-ji Castle Ruins Park. For tea lovers, book a traditional tea ceremony at a local teahouse to savor Kagawa’s famous "Sanuki Matcha" in a serene, authentic setting.

The hot springs at Kannon-ji Onsen Ryokan originate from deep volcanic rock layers over 800 meters underground, with a consistent temperature of 42°C and rich mineral content beneficial for skin and joints. Many ryokans offer a "One-Day Kimono Experience", where guests stroll the garden in yukata while enjoying seasonal flora. Some luxury properties feature "Stargazing Outdoor Baths", allowing guests to gaze at the unpolluted night sky—perfect for relaxation and reflection.

Yes, Museum Kids Stay at the Kagawa Prefectural Art Museum is the only family-focused hotel in Kannon-ji City. It offers children’s playrooms, hands-on workshops (like making Sanuki udon), and nightly storytelling sessions. Family rooms include cribs and safety features, and the hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Kannon-ji Castle Ruins, making it safe and engaging for kids and parents alike.

Head to Daihachiya Restaurant on Kōten-dōri Street for the signature Sanuki Udon with Bonito Broth—clear, savory, and perfectly chewy. For deeper immersion, join a family cooking class where locals teach how to prepare Kagawa miso-braised pork and seaweed sushi rolls. Some hotels even offer a "Self-Grocery & Kitchen Guide Service," letting guests shop ingredients and cook meals themselves under expert guidance.

The Takamatsu Port Lighthouse Viewpoint offers panoramic views of Seto Inland Sea, especially stunning at night when lights reflect across the water like stars. For a quieter alternative, hike the hill trail at Kannon-ji Castle Ruins Park, which provides expansive vistas with occasional fireflies in summer. Combined with distant port lights, it creates a peaceful, poetic scene.

Must-see sites include the Kannon-ji Castle Ruins Park, a former stronghold of the Miyoshi clan during the Sengoku period, now home to preserved stone walls and watchtowers. Nearby, the Kagawa Prefectural Art Museum showcases local art, including Sanuki Lacquerware and Shikoku Buddhist Sculptures. The renovated Former Takamatsu Railway Office hosts cultural exhibitions and craft markets, offering a vibrant glimpse into regional heritage.

Absolutely. Kannon-ji City features well-maintained trails along the Shikoku Pilgrimage Route, particularly the 3-km path from Kannon-ji Station to Dainoji Temple, passing through bamboo groves, temples, and rice fields—ideal for beginners. Rest stops and drinking fountains are available. For longer hikes, extend toward Takamatsu City, covering about 10 km total, including visits to Sanuki Shrine, a sacred site with deep spiritual significance.

Spring: Join the Kannon-ji Cherry Blossom Festival (late March) with traditional performances and illuminated night blooms at the castle park. Summer: Attend the Port Fireworks Festival (early July), featuring over 1,000 fireworks over Takamatsu Harbor. Autumn: Celebrate Sanuki Udon Festival, with limited-edition udon flavors and cooking contests. Winter: Experience the Snowy Onsen Night Tour, where guests soak in heated baths surrounded by snowfall and hear the soft chime of wind bells—truly meditative.