Autumn in Sakaide: A Journey in Color
A warm-hearted day of autumn leaves, strolling slowly through the town of Sakaide.
When the crisp autumn breeze begins to drift through, Sakaide is wrapped in gentle reds and golden hues.
From mountain temples and shrines to trees lining the streets, Sakaide’s autumn landscape turns with the season—familiar and quietly nostalgic.
Here are a few recommended places to enjoy autumn leaves and feel the season at its best.
The foliage is typically at its best from mid-November to early December.
INDEX
Shiromine-ji Temple
— A timeless temple of maples, coloring the slopes of Goshikidai —
Perched midway up the Goshikidai range, Shiromine-ji Temple is known as the 81st site of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
In autumn, layers of maple leaves in red, gold, and green overlap across the grounds, creating a painterly tapestry of color.
The view of autumn foliage from the main hall and the bell tower is especially memorable—paired with the mountain’s still air, it feels as if it gently clears the mind.
With many structures designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan, the historic temple buildings are embraced each season by around 300 maple trees.
The best viewing is typically from mid-November to early December.
📍 Access Information
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Address: 2635 Aomicho, Sakaide City, Kagawa, Japan
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Parking: Approx. 200 spaces (free; located near the temple grounds)
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Access:
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By car: About 20 minutes from “Sakaide IC” on the Takamatsu Expressway
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Visiting hours: 8:30–17:00
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Shiromineji Temple and Shiromine Imperial Mausoleum
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Address
2635 Aomi-cho, Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture 762-0016
GOOGLE MAPS
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Phone
0877-45-1122 (Sakaide Tourist Information Center)
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Access
22 minutes by car from JR Sakaide Station
Kandani Shrine
— Sacred autumn colors that glow in the silence —
Kandani Shrine, home to a National Treasure main sanctuary, carries an air of solemn grandeur.
Maple leaves around the grounds sway in the autumn breeze, forming a vivid contrast with the shrine’s vermilion buildings.
Spending unhurried time in the quiet precincts helps you forget the bustle of everyday life.
What’s more, seasonal and special goshuin (temple/shrine stamps) are also available!
These autumn-only designs, sprinkled with colorful maple leaves, are a treat unique to this season.
With designs changing each month, you’ll want to collect them all.
Together, the autumn foliage and goshuin create a special moment that captures “Kandani Shrine in autumn”—perfect as a keepsake from your trip.
📍 Access Information
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Address: 621 Kandani-cho, Sakaide City, Kagawa, Japan
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Parking: Approx. 6 spaces (free; located next to the shrine grounds)
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Access:
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By car: About 15 minutes from JR Sakaide Station
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Kandani Shrine
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Address
621 Kandani-cho, Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture 762-0018
GOOGLE MAPS
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Phone
0877-45-1122 (Sakaide City Tourism Association)
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Access
About 14 minutes by car from JR Sakaide Station
Around the Seto Ohashi Memorial Park
— A photogenic autumn where the Seto Inland Sea meets fall foliage —
At Seto Ohashi Memorial Park, spread out at the foot of the Great Seto Bridge, tree-lined paths and gardens turn autumnal—standing out beautifully against the blue sky.
From the observation plaza at the Seto Ohashi Memorial Museum, you can take in a sweeping view of the bridge—an almost picture-perfect scene framed by leaves fluttering in the autumn breeze.
At sunset, the crimson sky and the foliage create an even more dreamy atmosphere.
Stroll at an unhurried pace and enjoy Setouchi views from the lookout points and walking paths.
The maple trees in front of the Higashiyama Kaii Setouchi Art Museum also turn a brilliant yellow, making for a striking sight.
With open lawn areas on the grounds, it’s also an ideal spot for a relaxed family outing.
📍 Access Information
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Address: 6-13 Banno-su Midorimachi, Sakaide City, Kagawa, Japan
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Parking: Available (free)
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Access:
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By car: About 20 minutes from JR Sakaide Station
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By bus: Kotosan Bus — Seii Line
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Access Details:
Address: 6-13 Banno-su Midorimachi, Sakaide City, Kagawa, Japan
Parking: Approx. 450 spaces (free)
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Seto Ohashi Memorial Park
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Address
6-13 Bannosu-midoricho, Sakaide City, Kagawa 762-0065
GOOGLE MAPS
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Phone
0877-45-2344
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Access
7 minutes by car from Sakaide-kita IC
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Hours
Open year-round (*Memorial Hall closed on Mondays, holidays excepted)
Savoring Autumn’s Afterglow in Sakaide
After touring the autumn leaves, head back into town and take it slow.
Enjoy something sweet at the long-established Japanese confectionery shop Meibutsu Kamado,
then spend an autumn evening savoring Setouchi’s seasonal flavors—paired with local sake—at a restaurant in town.
To end your trip, why not warm both body and mind in a hot spring,
and look back on the day’s beautiful scenes?