What benefits are included when purchasing the Busshozan Pass for 1,300 yen?

The Busshozan Pass includes an all-day unlimited ride ticket for the Kotoden Railway and the admission fee to Busshozan Onsen, which normally costs 700 yen. It also comes with an original towel and a traditional fan.

What is the recommended itinerary when visiting Busshozan Onsen using the Busshozan Pass?

Since Ritsurinkoen Station and Busshozan Station are on the same Kotohira Line, we recommend combining your visit with Ritsurin Garden. An efficient itinerary would be taking a stroll through Ritsurin Garden during the day and heading to Busshozan Onsen in the late afternoon to relieve your fatigue.

What are the main highlights of Ritsurin Garden, which is great to visit along with Busshozan Onsen?

The view looking down from the top of Hiraiho Peak is the main photo spot. If you want to take a ride on a Wasen (traditional Japanese boat), you need to visit early to make a reservation. Additionally, enjoying matcha while admiring the garden at the Kikugetsu-tei teahouse is highly recommended.

Busshozan Pass Takamatsu 2026: Tickets & Onsen Guide

Welcome to Takamatsu, the charming capital of Kagawa Prefecture! Renowned for its world-class art islands and mouthwatering Sanuki udon, this coastal gem is the ultimate escape for travelers seeking a slower, more authentic side of Japan.

One of the best ways to explore this retro city is by hopping on the Kotoden—a delightful local train system that connects Takamatsu's cozy neighborhoods. If you are planning a day of exploring, there is one legendary budget hack you absolutely cannot skip: the Busshozan Pass.

In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about this high-value ticket: how and where to buy the Busshozan Pass, pricing details, directions to the stunning Busshozan Onsen, and a smart daily itinerary to maximize your time in Takamatsu!

⬇️ [Essential Travel Tools for Takamatsu]

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1. Why the Busshozan Pass is an Absolute Steal: Price & Benefits

There is a reason why savvy international travelers rave about this pass. It offers unmatched value for a day trip.

💡 Quick Math: A standard entry ticket to the gorgeous Busshozan Onsen costs 700 JPY (approx. $4.50 USD). When you add the round-trip train fare from central Takamatsu, you already exceed the cost of the pass. Factor in the free original souvenir towel and a traditional fan, and buying this pass is a complete no-brainer!

2. How and Where to Buy the Busshozan Pass

Keep in mind that you cannot purchase this pass at standard automated ticket machines.

To get your hands on one, head to the manned ticket offices at major Kotoden stations, including Takamatsu-Chikko Station or Kawaramachi Station. Simply show a photo of the pass or say "Busshozan Onsen Pass" to the station staff, and they will gladly issue your ticket for 1,300 JPY (approx. $8.50 USD).

3. How to Get to Busshozan Onsen & Itinerary Tips

Once you have your pass, it is time to enjoy a relaxing day in the countryside!

⭐ Pro-Tip: Pair it with Ritsurin Garden

To truly get your money's worth out of the unlimited Kotoden train rides, plan your hot spring visit on the same day you visit Ritsurin Garden. Both Ritsurinkoen Station and Busshozan Station are on the exact same line (Kotohira Line). Spend your morning strolling through the breathtaking, Michelin-starred landscape garden, and then head down to Busshozan in the afternoon to soak away your travel fatigue.

Ritsurin Garden is a must-visit masterpiece in Takamatsu! Known as a "step-by-step landscape," every turn offers a picture-perfect view. ✅ Insider Tips: 1️⃣ Climb Hiraiho Hill for the iconic panoramic view. 2️⃣ Book a traditional wooden boat ride (Wasen) early in the day. 3️⃣ Enjoy matcha and seasonal sweets at the historic Kikugetsu-tei tea house. Save this destination to experience authentic Japanese tranquility!

Final Thoughts: "Slow Travel Magic for Under $9 USD"

There is nothing quite like boarding a retro, two-car local train, watching the quaint Japanese countryside roll by, and ending your day submerged in a modern, mineral-rich outdoor hot spring.

This peaceful, authentic atmosphere is exactly what makes Japan's smaller cities so special. If you are heading to Shikoku, grab a Busshozan Pass and treat yourself to a perfect day of exploration and ultimate relaxation!

⬇️ [Where to Stay & How to Get Around]

For travelers relying on public transit, staying near Kawaramachi Station makes buying passes and catching trains incredibly easy.

👉 Check Rates for KOKO HOTEL Takamatsu (Best Location Near Kawaramachi)

👉 Reserve a Rental Car for Your Kagawa Prefecture Road Trip