Best Boat Trips in Marugame, Japan
Discover the Serene Waters of Marugame
Marugame, a charming city located in Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku Island, is renowned for its stunning coastline and rich maritime history. While Marugame offers numerous attractions for visitors, the best boat trips allow you to explore the scenic beauty of the Seto Inland Sea from a unique perspective. From serene coves to bustling harbors, here are some of the top boat trips in Marugame that will leave you spellbound.
1. Maruyama Port and Shikoku Bay
Start your journey at Maruyama Port, where you can embark on a leisurely cruise through the picturesque waters of Shikoku Bay. The port offers stunning views of the city skyline and is home to several traditional fishing boats. Enjoy the gentle rocking of the boat as you sail across the calm waters.
2. Mukaishima Island
Visit Mukaishima, an idyllic island known for its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere. Take a guided boat tour around the island to see its charming houses and historic sites, including the Iya Bridge, one of the oldest stone bridges in Japan.
3. Shikoku Aquarium
Combine your boat trip with a visit to the Shikoku Aquarium, located on Mukaishima Island. The aquarium offers various exhibits showcasing local marine life and is an excellent stop for families or anyone interested in ocean biology.
4. Takehama Port
Take a ferry from Maruyama Port to Takehama, where you can explore the town’s historic harbor area. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling port city and learn about its rich maritime heritage through various exhibits and guided tours.
5. Ujina Harbor
Visit Ujina Harbor in nearby Matsuyama City for a glimpse into the city's industrial past. The harbor is home to several museums and monuments, including the Shikoku Ferry Museum, which provides insight into the region’s maritime history.
6. Ikeda Port
Explore Ikeda Port, where you can take a boat tour around the nearby islands of Mukaishima and Tashima. The port offers various activities, from fishing excursions to leisurely cruises, making it an ideal destination for all ages.
7. Dogo Onsen Beach
Combine your boat trip with a visit to the charming Dogo Onsen Beach in nearby Takamatsu City. Soak in the natural hot springs while enjoying breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.
8. Mukaishima Yumefune Ferry
Experience the serenity of Mukaishima Island by taking a leisurely ferry ride along the island’s coastline. The Mukaishima Yumefune Ferry offers a peaceful journey through picturesque harbors and bays, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.
9. Uchiboh Port
Visit Uchiboh Port in the northern part of Kagawa Prefecture for a more secluded boat trip experience. The port is known for its tranquil setting and offers various activities, from fishing tours to day trips around nearby islands.
10. Iya River Cruise
Embark on an Iya River cruise from Takamatsu City for a scenic journey through the river’s narrow valleys. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape as you sail along the river, passing by traditional houses and historic sites.
11. Tashima Island
Take a boat to Tashima Island, where you can explore its natural beauty and rich history. The island is known for its ancient temples and scenic hiking trails, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
12. Kuroshio Coastline
Explore the Kuroshio coastline, which stretches along the northern part of Kagawa Prefecture. This stretch offers a variety of boat trips, from leisurely cruises to adventurous island hopping tours, allowing you to experience the diverse beauty of this region.
13. Takeo Island
Visit Takeo Island for a taste of rural life on Shikoku. The island is known for its traditional houses and local crafts, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more authentic experience of the Seto Inland Sea.
14. Kizaki Port
Explore Kizaki Port in nearby Kochi City for a glimpse into the region’s maritime history. The port is home to several museums and monuments, providing insight into the area’s rich cultural heritage.
15. Dogo Onsen Boat Tour
Combine your boat trip with a visit to Dogo Onsen Beach for a relaxing journey. Take a leisurely cruise along the coast while enjoying breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea and soaking in the natural hot springs.
16. Shikoku Cable Car
While not strictly a boat trip, combining a cable car ride with your boat exploration can offer a unique perspective on Marugame’s scenic landscape. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas while enjoying the thrill of the cable car ride.
17. Kochi City Harbor
Visit Kochi City Harbor for a bustling port experience. The harbor offers various activities, from fishing tours to day trips around nearby islands, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the region’s maritime history and natural beauty.
18. Takamatsu Port
Explore Takamatsu Port, which offers a variety of boat trips and water-based activities. From leisurely cruises to adventurous island hopping tours, there is something for everyone in this vibrant port city.
19. Mukaishima Island Night Cruise
Experience the magic of Mukaishima Island at night with a special evening cruise. The island’s charm takes on a new light during these after-dark excursions, offering a unique and enchanting experience for visitors.
20. Shikoku Whale Watching
Combine your boat trip with a whale watching tour from various ports around Marugame. The region is known for its diverse marine life, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts seeking a closer look at these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
These boat trips offer a variety of experiences that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, Marugame’s waters have something special to offer every visitor.