Goshikidai Highlands Observatory

Spreading across the hills between Takamatsu and neighbouring Sakaide, the Goshikidai is a broad lava plateau whose poetic name means the five-coloured heights. It takes the name from its five peaks, each traditionally associated with a colour: red, yellow, black, blue and white. Rising gently from the coastal plain, the plateau is threaded by the Goshikidai Skyline, a scenic road that runs its length and strings together a series of roadside observatories with wide views over the Seto Inland Sea, making it one of the most enjoyable scenic drives in Kagawa.

From the plateau's edge the panorama takes in the calm waters of the Setouchi, the islands scattered across it, the long spans of the Great Seto Bridge to the west, and the rounded, distinctive hills that give the Kagawa landscape its signature gentle profile. By day the views are expansive and serene; the elevated, open terrain catches the sea breeze and offers a cool retreat in summer, while autumn brings warm colour to the surrounding woodland. The lookouts are informal and free, inviting visitors to pull over, stretch their legs and take in the scenery at leisure.

Goshikidai is most celebrated, however, for its night view. As dusk falls, the lights of Takamatsu and the coastal towns spread out below the dark silhouettes of the hills, and the plateau becomes one of the region's favourite spots for an evening drive. Couples and photographers come for the glittering cityscape framed against the sea, and the combination of easy road access and a broad, elevated outlook makes it an effortless place to enjoy the after-dark spectacle.

The plateau is more than a viewpoint, too. It carries a long spiritual heritage, with historic temples of the Shikoku pilgrimage such as Shiromine-ji and Negoro-ji set among its slopes, and quiet walking trails linking shrines, forests and clearings. This blend of natural scenery, sweeping coastal views and cultural sites means a trip up to Goshikidai can be as full or as relaxed as you like, from a quick sunset stop to a half-day of exploring.

Because the plateau is spread out and rural, it is best explored by car along the Goshikidai Skyline, roughly thirty to forty minutes from central Takamatsu, with parking at the main lookouts; reaching it by public transport is difficult and involves a long walk from the nearest JR stations. Open and free at all hours, the Goshikidai Highlands reward drivers with a chain of sea-facing viewpoints by day and one of Takamatsu's most romantic night views once the city lights flicker on below.