Station Takimiya

Discover the Heart of Sanuki: Where Tradition Meets Taste at Takimiya

Nestled along National Route 32 in the scenic heart of Kagawa Prefecture, Takimiya roadside station sits atop a serene hill overlooking the picturesque Fuchu Lake. Surrounded by lush greenery and just steps from the famed Takimiya Park—recognized as one of the "Sannuki Hundred Scenic Spots"—this vibrant hub blends natural beauty with authentic local charm. More than a rest stop, Takimiya is a celebration of regional heritage, offering travelers a true taste of Sanuki.

Home to the legendary origin of Sanuki udon, the station features a self-service udon shop using locally milled wheat, alongside a strawberry-themed café, farm-fresh produce market, and a seasonal strawberry picking experience. Visitors can savor handmade sweets, explore cultural exhibits, or enjoy a quiet moment at the scenic overlook. With ample parking, EV charging, and access to hiking, cycling, and fishing, Takimiya invites every traveler to pause, connect, and relish the simple pleasures of rural Japan.

Takimiya roadside station stands out as the only place in the region where you can enjoy freshly made sanuki udon using locally milled wheat, served at a dedicated self-service shop that honors the area’s claim as the birthplace of udon. Equally unique is the on-site strawberry farm, where visitors can pick and eat fresh strawberries in season—offering a rare hands-on experience with Kagawa’s prized fruit. The station’s location atop a hill overlooking the scenic Fuchu Lake, combined with its historic nearby train station and the annual traditional "Takimiya念佛踊り" dance, makes it a destination for both culinary and cultural discovery.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM on weekdays to access the full selection at the farmers market "Farmers Market Sansan Plaza Takinomiya" before the afternoon rush, as it closes at 5:00 PM and sells out of fresh seasonal produce by early afternoon.

• Hidden Gems: Stop at the "Ichigo Sweets" shop, the strawberry-themed dessert specialty store, between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to ensure you get the day’s fresh batch of strawberry shortcake, which sells out by noon.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the "Self-Service Udon Shop 'Sanuki Udon no Eki Ayagawa'" between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM to secure the first batch of freshly made udon using local wheat flour, as it runs out quickly and is not restocked during the day.

• Off-Peak Dining: Eat at the "Udon no Eki Ayagawa" restaurant between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM on weekdays to avoid the lunchtime crowd and enjoy a quiet meal before the peak hours begin at 12:00 PM.

• Best Time for Strawberry Picking: Book and arrive between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM on weekends to get the earliest access to the on-site strawberry farm, where the 30-minute all-you-can-eat picking session starts promptly and fills up fast.

• EV Charging Tip: If using the EV charging station, arrive before 10:00 AM on weekdays, as the rapid charger is temporarily unavailable during peak system maintenance hours, and the facility has been updated to limit access during specific periods.

• Information Corner Advantage: Visit the information corner between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM on non-holiday weekdays to speak with staff who can provide up-to-date details on local events, seasonal product availability, and real-time updates on the temporary closures of nearby eateries like "Unagi no Heso" and "Sanuki Udon no Eki Ayagawa."

Spring (March–May): Peak season for strawberry picking (mid-March to early May) and cherry blossoms at Takimiya Park draw visitors in full bloom.

Summer (June–August): Enjoy the annual Takimiya Bon Dance Festival on August 25 and fishing at Fuchu Lake.

Autumn (September–November): The last chance for fresh strawberries and seasonal events around the end of September.

Winter (December–February): Limited activities; focus on the historic Kotohama Railway Station and quiet lakeside views.