Yashima

5 of 10 in Takamatsu

Yashima (屋島, lit. "roof island"), a flat-topped mountain just outside Takamatsu’s city center, is a historic site famous for the Battle of Yashima during the 12th-century Gempei War. It was here that the Minamoto clan defeated the Taira, leading to their eventual downfall. Visitors can explore monuments related to the battle, including Chinoike, a pond said to have turned red with blood after the Minamoto warriors washed their swords. Yashima Temple, the 84th stop on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, is near the summit and features a modern museum showcasing the area's rich history.

The mountaintop offers breathtaking views of Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea. Visitors can take part in the unique tradition of throwing small clay discs off the mountain for good luck, symbolizing the Minamoto warriors casting off their helmets after victory. A short walk away is the New Yashima Aquarium with entertaining dolphin and seal shows. At the mountain’s base, Shikoku Mura exhibits traditional homes and structures from across Shikoku Island.

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Yashima Temple

New Yashima Aquarium

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Yashima’s attractions are near each other at the flat summit and can be reached from central Takamatsu. Take a Kotoden train from Takamatsu-Chikko Station to Kawaramachi Station, transfer to the Shido Line, and get off at Kotoden Yashima Station (30 minutes, 330 yen). Or, take a JR train from Takamatsu Station toward Tokushima and get off at JR Yashima Station (15 minutes, 220 yen). From either station, the Yashima Sanjo Shuttle bus runs once per hour to the summit (10-20 minutes, 100 yen). You can also drive up the free Yashima Driveway (parking costs 300 yen).