Takamatsu Travel Checklist 2026: Prep for Your Japan Trip

✨ Instant Summary

🧳 Oops, I forgot one essential item and it was a struggle!

Packing is often the most annoying part of trip planning, right? But for Takamatsu, with its outdoor adventures on Naoshima, strolls through Ritsurin Garden, and even hot springs, you really need to pack thoughtfully.

Turns out, there were quite a few things that were inconvenient to not have once I was actually there. Having just completed my 4-day, 3-night trip, I've put together a comprehensive list of what I wish I'd packed and what was absolutely essential. Hope this helps you out!

📋 Essential Documents - Seriously, don't forget these!

① Passport

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 more months. I highly recommend double-checking it the night before your departure. Just a friendly reminder!

② Flight Tickets (Air Seoul)

It's super convenient to save them as mobile boarding passes. If you check in beforehand using the Air Seoul app, you'll save precious time at the airport.

③ Visit Japan Web - Seriously, get this done in advance!

Registering for Visit Japan Web before you arrive in Japan will make your immigration process so much faster. Just enter your passport and flight details, and you'll get a QR code that you simply show at immigration.

It's incredible how one QR code lets you breeze through immigration without any paper forms. Takamatsu Airport isn't huge, so immigration lines tend to move pretty quickly anyway, but having Visit Japan Web ready means you'll pass through even faster. I strongly recommend completing your registration at least 3 days before your departure. Trust me on this one!

Step-by-step guide to accessing the Visit Japan Web site and getting your QR code

④ Travel Insurance

Medical expenses in Japan can be quite high, so I definitely recommend getting travel insurance before you go. There are policies available that you can sign up for even up until the day before you leave, so make sure to sort it out in advance. It's worth the peace of mind!

📱 Connectivity - SIM vs. eSIM: What's the best choice for your trip?

Data is absolutely essential for your trip to Japan. Especially if you're exploring Naoshima Island, you'll definitely need data to navigate with maps.

For a couple, I found it most convenient for each person to use their own eSIM. Pocket Wi-Fi seemed like a hassle, constantly worrying about the battery. Just a tip!

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💴 Currency Exchange - Better Ways Than the Airport!

Japan is still a country where you'll use cash quite a bit. While many places now accept card payments, you'll still encounter spots that are cash-only.

I personally brought both Kakao Pay and cash. For larger purchases, Kakao Pay was handy, and for smaller cash payments, I used the yen I'd exchanged in advance. It made things really smooth! Keep this strategy in mind!

👟 What to Wear & Shoes - Footwear is seriously important, especially for Naoshima!

The weather in Takamatsu in March is cool during the day, and a bit chilly in the mornings and evenings. It's a good idea to pack a light outer layer.

And shoes are really important! You'll be doing quite a bit of walking between the art museums on Naoshima Island. Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes are a must. If you wear new shoes and get blisters, you'll suffer all day long.

The same goes for Ritsurin Garden. You'll be walking for quite a while, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. Please keep that in mind!

☀️ Naoshima-Specific Essentials - Pack these extra items just for this day

It's a good idea to pack a few extra things specifically for your Naoshima trip. You'll be doing quite a bit of outdoor walking on the island.

① Sunscreen

On a sunny day, the sun on Naoshima Island can be stronger than you'd expect. Make sure to pack it. Please keep that in mind!

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② Small Backpack or Crossbody Bag

It's easier to take photos when your hands are free. Having a lot of luggage can be inconvenient when trying to get that perfect shot in front of the pumpkins.

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③ Snacks & Water

There aren't many convenience stores or restaurants on the island. We highly recommend bringing some simple snacks and water with you.

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④ Chichu Art Museum Reservation Confirmation

This isn't luggage, but a 'reservation confirmation.' If you don't have a reservation on site, you might not be able to enter. Make sure to double-check it the night before you depart. Please keep that in mind!

👉 Discover Naoshima Ferry & Art Museum Local Guide Walking Tour including Reservations

♨️ Onsen Essentials - Just bring these extra items when heading to Busshozan

The Busshozan Onsen pass (¥1,300) includes a bus ticket and admission. While towels and amenities are available at the facility, it's more comfortable to bring your own personal items.

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① Small Towel

Although they provide a towel upon entry, it's quite thin, so we recommend bringing a thicker one.

② Change of Underwear

It's definitely a good idea to pack a change of underwear for after your onsen visit.

③ Comb · Hair Dryer

Hair dryers are usually provided, but we recommend bringing your own comb. They are also available for purchase at the onsen, so please keep that in mind!

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📦 Final Packing Checklist

❓ FAQ - Your Top Questions for Takamatsu Trip Prep

Q1. Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?

For South Korean nationals, visa-free entry is possible for short stays of up to 90 days. This is accurate as of the time of writing, but it's always recommended to reconfirm the latest entry requirements through official channels before you depart.

Q2. How much Japanese Yen should I prepare?

For a 3-night, 4-day trip for a couple, having about 30,000 to 50,000 JPY per person in cash should give you plenty of spending flexibility. You can cover the rest with a card. This exchange rate is current as of the time of writing, but we recommend reconfirming with official channels.

Q3. When should I make advance reservations for the Chichu Art Museum?

During peak seasons or on weekends, tickets can sell out quickly. We highly recommend booking 2-3 weeks before your departure. This is accurate as of the time of writing, and we advise reconfirming on the official website.

🏁 Final Thoughts

When you're prepared with the right essentials, your Takamatsu trip becomes so much more relaxed and enjoyable on the ground. For instance, on your Naoshima day, making sure you had extra sunscreen and snacks was truly crucial.

And since advance reservations for the Chichu Art Museum can sometimes be impossible to sort out once you're there, make sure this one thing is absolutely confirmed before you leave.

Comfortable shoes and travel insurance also made a bigger difference than I expected. I really can't recommend them enough! Keep these tips in mind! 🙏

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