What to know
Marugame (丸亀) is a port city in western Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku, located just west of the Seto Ohashi Bridge that connects Shikoku to Honshu, Japan's main island.
As the second largest city in the prefecture, Marugame encompasses many of the Shiwaku Islands just off its coast. These islands were historically significant due to their strategic position along major sea routes. They include Honjima Island, the former administrative center of the island group. Today, several islands serve as venues for the Setouchi Triennale art festival.
For centuries, Marugame's location on the Seto Inland Sea has made it a key hub for maritime trade and transportation. Marugame Castle, built atop a hill overlooking the city, was constructed to help control the area. It is one of only twelve "original castles" in Japan, meaning its keep has remained intact since the post-feudal period (after 1868).
Activities and attractions
Honjima IslandMain island of the Shiwaku Islands
Marugame CastleSmallest keep among the original castles
Awashima IslandStar-shaped island with a historic sailor school
Mimoca Art MuseumContemporary art museum next to the station
Takamijima IslandIsland with a small, depopulated village
ShamijimaFormer island next to the Seto Ohashi Bridge
Ibukijima IslandSmall island with fishing town off Shikoku