Takamatsu Airport

Takamatsu Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the scenic island of Shikoku and Kagawa Prefecture. Located on an elevation south of the city centre, it offers travellers breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea even before landing. This compact and modern airport is renowned for its unique hospitality and has even earned the unofficial nickname "Udon Airport," alluding to the region's main gastronomic symbol.

Airport Features and Highlights

Takamatsu Airport is known far beyond Japan for its unusual attraction — a tap dispensing udon broth. In the departure hall, you can find a special faucet from which flows not water, but hot and aromatic dashi broth, which anyone can taste for free. This highlights the region's status as the "Udon Prefecture."

The terminal is distinguished by its well-thought-out navigation and compactness: all necessary services, check-in counters, and security zones are within walking distance. The roof of the building features a spacious observation deck, offering a panoramic view of the runway and surrounding mountains, making the wait for your flight a pleasant part of the journey.

For tourists, the airport is convenient due to excellent transport links. Special limousine buses connect the terminal with Takamatsu Railway Station and the port, from where ferries depart to the famous "Art Islands" — Naoshima and Teshima.

If you need to contact representatives of Takamatsu Airport, please use the following contact information. Note that when calling from abroad, you must dial the international code for Japan (+81).

• Official Website: www.takamatsu-airport.com. The site has an English version where you can find up-to-date information on flights, services, and passenger regulations.
• Information Desk Phone: +81-87-879-1111. This is the main number for general inquiries, consultations, and assistance.
• Airport Address: 1312-7 Konancho, Takamatsu, Kagawa 761-1401, Japan.
• Lost & Found: If you have left or lost your belongings within the terminal building, please contact the information centre at +81-87-879-1111. If items were lost on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline representatives directly.
• Email: The airport does not provide a public email address. For communication, it is recommended to use the special contact form on the official website.

Getting to Takamatsu Airport from the city centre or other key locations is quite simple, thanks to a well-organised transport system. The most popular and economical method is the Airport Limousine Bus. These comfortable buses operate on several routes, connecting the airport with the main JR Takamatsu Station, the ferry terminal, and major hotels in the city of Takamatsu. The journey from JR Takamatsu Station takes approximately 40–45 minutes, and the ticket cost is around 800-1000 yen. The bus schedule is usually coordinated with flight arrivals and departures, making this option very convenient.

It is important to note that there is no direct rail link to the airport. If you are travelling around Japan by train, you need to reach JR Takamatsu Station and then transfer to the aforementioned limousine bus. The bus stop is located in the immediate vicinity of the station exit, making the transfer quick and intuitive.

For those who value comfort and speed, a taxi is an excellent option. The trip from the city centre to the airport will take about 30–35 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Although significantly more expensive than the bus (costs can vary from 5000 to 7000 yen), a taxi is ideal for travellers with a large amount of luggage, families with children, or those in a hurry for a flight. You can also book a private transfer in advance to ensure a fixed price and a meet-and-greet at a convenient location.

If you plan to actively explore Kagawa Prefecture and the scenic island of Shikoku, consider renting a car. Counters for several major rental companies operate at Takamatsu Airport. A car will provide you with complete freedom of movement. For tourists arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicles, there is a spacious parking lot with zones for short-term and long-term parking.

Although Takamatsu Airport is the primary one for the region, travellers sometimes consider other options. Within reach are Okayama Airport (about 62 km) and Tokushima Awaodori Airport (about 55 km), which may offer alternative flights. Reaching them involves using regional transport, which will require additional planning.

Takamatsu Airport (TAK) is distinguished by a well-designed and compact structure, making it very convenient for passengers. It operates one passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, there is no need for long transfers between different buildings, and all navigation is intuitive.

The terminal building has several levels, and its layout is simple. On the first floor, you will find airline check-in counters and the arrival area. This is where you will emerge after your plane lands; baggage claim and customs control for international flights are also located here. Additionally, the first floor houses information desks, car rental counters, and bus stops.

The second floor is dedicated entirely to departing passengers. After checking in on the first floor, you proceed here to go through pre-flight security and passport control. The boarding gates are located here, as well as duty-free shops, souvenir stalls, and various cafes and restaurants where you can comfortably spend time waiting for your flight. For passenger convenience, the zones for domestic and international flights are clearly separated.

One of the pleasant features of many airports in Japan, and Takamatsu is no exception, is the presence of an observation deck on the top floor. It offers an excellent view of the runway, which can be entertaining, especially if you are travelling with children. Due to the airport's small size, completing all formalities such as check-in and security usually takes significantly less time than in major hubs. Nevertheless, for international flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours in advance, and for domestic flights, about an hour before departure.

The history of the modern Takamatsu Airport (TAK) began in the late 20th century. It was officially opened in December 1989, replacing the old airport which was located closer to the city centre and could no longer meet the growing demands of aviation. Construction on a new, more spacious site laid the foundation for future expansion and the transformation of the airport into a vital transport hub for Shikoku Island.

One of the first and most significant stages of development was the extension of the runway in 1992 from 2000 to 2500 metres. This modernisation was crucial: it allowed for the accommodation of larger types of aircraft and, consequently, the launch of the first regular international flights. This event strengthened the airport's status and contributed to the growth of both tourism and business connections in the region.

A landmark milestone in the airport's history was the year 2018. It was then that Takamatsu Airport became the first in Japan to be fully transferred to private company management. This pilot privatisation project became a model for other airports in the country, demonstrating a new approach to infrastructure management aimed at increasing efficiency, improving service, and attracting new carriers.

Beyond its official history, the airport has its own cultural distinctiveness. It bears the unofficial but very popular nickname "Udon Airport". This is a tribute to the main culinary heritage of Kagawa Prefecture — udon noodles. The idea proved so successful that it became part of the airport's identity: in the waiting hall, there is even a tap installed from which anyone can pour themselves hot dashi broth for free. This is, without a doubt, one of the most delicious and memorable facts about the airport.

Takamatsu Airport (TAK) offers passengers a full range of services for a comfortable stay before departure or after arrival. The terminal is designed so that your journey begins and ends as pleasantly as possible, reflecting the high standards of Japanese hospitality.

Within the airport, you will find several restaurants and cafes where you can taste the famous local udon, as well as other Japanese and Western dishes. Shops offer a wide selection of souvenirs, regional delicacies, and travel essentials. There is also a Duty Free shop where you can purchase perfumes, tobacco products, and other goods at competitive prices.

For those who prefer to wait for their flight in a quieter atmosphere, paid lounges with comfortable seating, snacks, and beverages are available. Free Wi-Fi operates throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are equipped in the waiting areas near the boarding gates, allowing you to stay connected at all times.

The airport features bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points where you can handle financial matters. For emergencies, there is a medical station ready to provide first aid. For travellers with children, there are special nursing rooms with changing tables and everything necessary for baby care.

The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, special elevators, and restrooms. Staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance when moving through the terminal. Although there are no hotels directly inside the airport building, several hotels of varying comfort levels are located in the immediate vicinity. For business travellers, basic business services may be available, though specialised conference rooms are best sought in nearby hotels.

Takamatsu Airport offers passengers several excellent options for a snack or a full meal, with an emphasis on the famous local cuisine. Most dining establishments are concentrated on the second and third floors in the public area, before passing through pre-flight security control.

The main gastronomic attraction of the airport, as well as the entire Kagawa Prefecture, is undoubtedly Sanuki Udon noodles. The airport has several restaurants where you can try this iconic dish. The noodles here are distinguished by a special chewy texture and are served in various variations: with hot broth, cold dipping sauce, with tempura (battered vegetables or seafood), or simply with green onions and ginger. This is an ideal choice for a hearty meal before departure. Prices in such establishments are quite reasonable.

Besides udon, at the airport you will find:

• Cafes and Coffee Shops: For those who want a quick coffee with fresh pastries or a sandwich. They are located both in the public zone and, in smaller numbers, after security control. An excellent option for a light breakfast or snack.
• Restaurants with Set Meals: Here you can order traditional Japanese "Teishoku" sets, including rice, miso soup, a main dish (fish or meat), and several small side dishes.
• Souvenir Shops: These sell not only souvenirs but also packaged local delicacies, sweets, and snacks that you can take with you on board the plane.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding certified Halal or gluten-free dishes may be challenging. For vegetarians, a good option would be udon with vegetable tempura, however, it is worth checking the ingredients of the broth (which often contains fish stock). Simple salads or pastries can always be found in cafes. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is safer to bring food with you.

Most restaurants and cafes open in the morning and operate until the departure of the last evening flight. Thus, you will have the opportunity to refresh yourself during almost any time the airport is open.

Planning a trip through the airport of Takamatsu city will go smoothly if you consider a few tips. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights and 2.5-3 hours before international ones. Although airports in Japan are famous for their efficiency, extra time will allow you to go through all procedures without rushing, have a coffee, or buy souvenirs.

To save time, take advantage of online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. At check-in counters and security screening, be ready to present your passport and boarding pass. Screening procedures are standard: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag, and laptops and other large electronics must be removed from your bag. The staff are very polite and always ready to help, so do not hesitate to ask questions.

When choosing a seat on the plane, note that some flights departing from Takamatsu offer picturesque views of the Seto Inland Sea. A window seat will give you beautiful shots upon departure. Regarding carry-on luggage, the rules are standard: sharp objects, flammable substances, and liquids in volumes over 100 ml per item are prohibited. Be sure to check the exact weight and size limits for carry-on luggage on your airline's website.

If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect your luggage in Takamatsu or if it will be automatically forwarded to your final destination. When passing through customs control upon arrival in Japan, be prepared to fill out a declaration. Remember that there are strict restrictions on importing certain products into the country, especially meat, fruits, and vegetables. To speed up the process, you can fill out all forms online in advance via the Visit Japan Web service.

In case of a flight delay, remain calm. First, contact your airline representative for information about the new departure time and possible compensation (for example, meal vouchers). Check the terms of your travel insurance. While waiting, you can relax in a cafe or browse the shops with local delicacies and souvenirs available in the terminal.