Kagawa Prefecture is located in the Shikoku region of Japan, with Takamatsu City as its capital. It corresponds to the former Sanuki Province under the old provincial system, and its name originates from the Kagawa District, to which Takamatsu historically belonged. Kagawa has the smallest land area among all Japanese prefectures—smaller even than Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture.
Geography and Cities
Approximately half of Kagawa’s land consists of plains, making it a region where urban convenience and natural environment coexist harmoniously. Its northern part faces the Seto Inland Sea and includes numerous islands, such as Shodoshima. The prefecture is connected to Okayama Prefecture via the Seto Ohashi Bridge, providing excellent access to Honshu through railways and expressways. The travel time between Takamatsu and Okayama Station is about one hour via the rapid "Marine Liner," reflecting a strong economic and cultural connection between the two areas.
Takamatsu City, the prefectural capital, serves as a gateway to Shikoku. It functions as a branch-office economy hub, hosting numerous government and corporate offices, including the headquarters of Shikoku Electric Power Company and JR Shikoku. It boasts the largest metropolitan area in Shikoku.
Climate and Nature
Kagawa has a Seto Inland Sea-type climate, characterized by many sunny days and low precipitation. With long hours of sunlight and a historical background in salt production, it was once known as the "Salt Field Kingdom." Snowfall occurs only about once or twice a year, and heavy snow is rare. During summer, the region sometimes experiences extreme heat and tropical nights due to the Foehn phenomenon and calm sea conditions.
Due to limited rainfall and river flow, over 14,000 reservoirs are scattered throughout the prefecture as part of drought prevention efforts.
Culture and Tourism
Kagawa is nationally renowned for Sanuki Udon, with the highest udon consumption in Japan. The prefecture is also actively promoting its identity as the “Udon Prefecture.” It boasts numerous tourist attractions, including Kotohira Shrine (popularly known as "Konpira-san"), Zentsuji Temple with ties to the monk Kukai, the Zenigata Sand Painting in Kanonji, and the Seto Ohashi Bridge.
A traditional local dish is Anmochi Zoni—a white miso soup with sweet red bean paste-filled mochi, commonly eaten in the eastern part of the prefecture. The term “Sanuki Sanpaku” (Sanuki's Three Whites: salt, cotton, and sugar) reflects cultural elements rooted in the Edo period.
In terms of architecture, Kagawa is home to many works by Kenzo Tange, such as the Kagawa Prefectural Government Office, gymnasiums, and housing complexes. These buildings contribute to the prefecture’s reputation as a destination for modern architecture.
Society and Living Environment
Kagawa experiences fewer natural disasters compared to other areas in Japan, making it a safe and comfortable place to live. The emergency medical system is well developed, with high rankings nationwide in the number of emergency hospitals and the prevalence of nursing care facilities. The prefecture also shows favorable employment trends, including a high job-to-applicant ratio.
While Shikoku Electric Power is the primary electricity provider in Kagawa, areas near Okayama, such as Naoshima Town and Shodo District, fall under the jurisdiction of Chugoku Electric Power.
