Experience Authentic Sanuki Udon and Cultural Delights in Marugame City
Kagawa Prefecture is famous for Sanuki Udon, one of Japan’s three major udon varieties. In Marugame City alone, you can find over 60 udon shops where you can enjoy authentic Sanuki Udon at an affordable price.
Sanuki Udon is known for its firm texture and smoothness, making it stand out among other udon varieties. The unique salt concentration technique, known as “Do San Kan Roku Jo Go Hai,” contributes to its unparalleled taste that cannot be easily replicated elsewhere. A visit to Marugame City isn’t complete without tasting this delicious udon.
While enjoying the udon, you can also immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Marugame City. The city is home to Marugame Castle, which has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 famous castles and boasts the highest stone walls in Japan. The city is also renowned for its traditional industry of Marugame Uchiwa (Japanese fans). With its combination of culinary and cultural attractions, Marugame City is a must-visit destination.
Quoted from Megurume Kiku Shikoku
Let’s Head to the Marugame Castle Festival
Location: Marugame Castle area, Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture
Date: Annually from May 3rd to 4th
Access: 10-minute walk from JR Yosan Main Line “Marugame Station”
Approximately 10 minutes from Takamatsu Expressway “Sakaide IC” via National Route 11
URL: http://oshiro-fes.com/ (Official Marugame Castle Festival Website)
The Marugame Castle Festival is the largest festival in Marugame City, celebrated with the motto “Let’s create a festival for everyone.” The festival grounds host a variety of events that everyone can enjoy.
The Marugame Castle Festival began in 1950 to celebrate the completion of the restoration of Marugame Castle’s keep. The festivities kick off with a pre-festival event on May 2nd, known as the “Japanese Taiko Festival,” where local taiko drum groups perform to mark the opening of the Marugame Castle Festival.
Quoted from Megurume Kiku Shikoku
A Festival for Family, Friends, and Couples: 2018 Marugame Castle Festival, Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture
The Marugame Castle Festival is a fun-filled event that can be enjoyed with family, friends, or your significant other. True to its motto, “Let’s create a festival for everyone,” each citizen of Marugame contributes to making this festival special. During the “Mande Gangan Grand Parade,” 2,000 citizens dress up as daimyo and other characters and parade through the city.
The festival also features spectacular events like the Lion Dance Performance and the Matchlock Gun Demonstration, which offer rare experiences not usually encountered in everyday life.
Additionally, the festival hosts a “Honetsukidori Championship” where participants compete in eating the new Marugame specialty, Honetsukidori (bone-in chicken). Of course, you can also enjoy the famous Sanuki Udon at the festival venue.
Quoted from Marugame Castle Festival Official Website
A Festival for Everyone, Young and Old
The Marugame Castle Festival is created by the people of Marugame, with each person being the star of the event. It’s an energizing and uplifting festival that is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated. Held during Golden Week, it’s an excellent choice for family vacations or dates. Be sure to visit and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere!
Cover image courtesy of Marugame Castle Festival Official Website.
(Edited by 千八乃)
