Yashima

What to know

Yashima (屋島, meaning "roof island") is a flat-topped mountain just outside central Takamatsu. It was the stage of a famous battle during the 12th-century Gempei War between the Taira and Minamoto clans. The Taira were defeated here in what turned out to be the last battle before their final downfall.

Around the flat summit, you'll find attractions linked to the historic battlefield, including a monument to the Battle of Yashima and Chinoike ("blood pond")—a pond said to have turned red with blood after the victorious Minamoto warriors washed their swords in it.

Yashima offers superb views of Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea. Near the many viewpoints around the mountaintop, shops sell small clay discs that visitors throw off the mountain for good luck. This tradition symbolizes the victorious Minamoto warriors tossing their headpieces after defeating the Taira.

Near the summit parking area stands Yashima Temple, the 84th temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Besides several buildings from different eras, the temple houses a modern museum displaying artifacts from Yashima's history.

About a five-minute walk from Yashima Temple is the New Yashima Aquarium (currently closed for renovations until spring 2027). At the base of Yashima lies Shikoku Mura, an open-air museum showcasing traditional houses, bridges, and other structures from across Shikoku.

The attractions on Yashima are within walking distance of each other around the mountain's flat summit. Yashima is accessible from central Takamatsu via the Kotoden or JR lines.