Last reviewed: · Prices are approximate and for orientation only.
Überblick
This moderate-paced 6-day itinerary uses 4 bases — Okayama (1 night), Naoshima (1 night), Takamatsu (2 nights), Matsuyama (2 nights) — to keep hotel changes low while covering Okayama, Naoshima, Takamatsu, Matsuyama. Daily spend for mid-range travelers is around ¥17,000 per person including accommodation.
Day-by-day
Arrive in Okayama
Arrive, pick up an IC card and settle in. Easy first afternoon: Korakuen garden and Okayama Castle.
Travel to Naoshima
Morning transfer to Naoshima (forward big luggage with takkyubin the day before). Afternoon: Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House and the yellow pumpkin.
Travel to Takamatsu
Morning transfer to Takamatsu (forward big luggage with takkyubin the day before). Afternoon: Ritsurin Garden and sanuki udon crawl.
Flexible day in Takamatsu
Free day in Takamatsu: revisit favourites, shop, or rest at an onsen/sento. Ideas: Ritsurin Garden and sanuki udon crawl.
Travel to Matsuyama
Morning transfer to Matsuyama (forward big luggage with takkyubin the day before). Afternoon: Dogo Onsen Honkan and Matsuyama Castle.
Flexible day in Matsuyama · depart
Free day in Matsuyama: revisit favourites, shop, or rest at an onsen/sento. Ideas: Dogo Onsen Honkan and Matsuyama Castle. Head to the airport in the afternoon.
Anreise & Nahverkehr
Use an IC card (Suica/ICOCA) for local trains and buses. Point-to-point tickets are usually cheaper than a JR Pass for this route.
Frequently asked questions
Is 6 days enough for Okayama, Naoshima, Takamatsu?
Yes — this plan gives Okayama (1 night), Naoshima (1 night), Takamatsu (2 nights), Matsuyama (2 nights), which is enough for the main highlights at a moderate pace.
How much does this 6-day Japan trip cost?
Roughly ¥102,000 per person for 6 days (≈¥17,000/day) excluding international flights.
Do I need a JR Pass for this itinerary?
Enter your legs in our JR Pass Calculator; single tickets or regional passes are often cheaper.
When is the best time to do this route?
Late March–May and October–November for the best weather.