【Summer Pockets】 Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture
What is “Summer Pockets” ABOUT
“Summer Pockets” (サマーポケッツ, commonly known as Samapoke) is a romantic adventure game released by VISUAL ARTS and Key on June 29, 2018, known for titles like “CLANNAD” and “Little Busters!” The protagonist, Takahara Hairei, visits the fictional island of “Toroshiro Island (Toroshirojima)” floating in the Seto Inland Sea to organize the belongings left by her deceased grandmother, and the story depicts a summer tale with girls she meets there.
A smartphone version was released in 2020, a Nintendo Switch version in 2023, and an anime version began airing in 2024. With the production of the anime, even more fans have been visiting sacred sites in Kagawa Prefecture.
The model for “Toroshiro Island,” the setting of the work, is three islands floating in the Seto Inland Sea off Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture: Naoshima, Ogijima, and Megijima. Spots from the work are scattered across each island, and the key to pilgrimage tourism is to efficiently tour all three islands.
Characteristics of Kagawa’s Three Sacred Sites
Naoshima
Naoshima is an island belonging to Naoshima Town, Kagawa County, Kagawa Prefecture, and is world-renowned as a sacred site of contemporary art. Art works such as the Benesse House Museum, the Chichu Art Museum, and Yayoi Kusama’s “Red Pumpkin” and “Yellow Pumpkin” are scattered across the island, attracting many visitors from home and abroad.
In Summer Pockets, many everyday scenes of the island appear, including the Miyauraura Port where the protagonist Hairei lands, shopping streets, and shrines. The charm of Naoshima is the ability to enjoy art appreciation and sacred site pilgrimage simultaneously.
Ogijima
A small island about 40 minutes by ferry from Takamatsu Port, with a circumference of approximately 7 kilometers. Upon arrival, a unique landscape catches your eye where houses overlap on the hillside like scales. This beautiful scenery captivates many fans as a landscape symbolizing the work’s world view.
Ogijima has many steep slopes and narrow alleyways that wind like a maze. By strolling slowly and savoring the island’s atmosphere, you can immerse yourself in the world of the work.
Megijima
Megijima, also called “Oni Island,” has excellent accessibility about 20 minutes from Takamatsu Port. It is known as a place associated with the legend of Momotaro and features tourist attractions such as a large cave and statues of demons.
In Summer Pockets, scenes of the coastline and harbor areas appear. With relatively flat terrain, it is an island where sacred site pilgrimage using rental bicycles is easy.
Takamatsu Area TAKAMATSU AREA
Takamatsu Port
Takamatsu Port serves as the base for sacred site pilgrimage. It is the gateway to Takamatsu City, the capital of Kagawa Prefecture, and is where regular ferries to Naoshima, Ogijima, and Megijima depart. The port area is well-equipped with restaurants and souvenir shops, making it convenient for rest before and after pilgrimage.
The ferry terminal at Takamatsu Port is a modern building, and there is a tourism information office in the waiting area. It is important to carefully check the timetables for each island and create an efficient travel plan.
Access Information
By Train
- About 10 minutes on foot from JR Takamatsu Station
- About 5 minutes on foot from Kotoden Takamatsu Chikko Station
By Air
- About 40 minutes by limousine bus from Takamatsu Airport, then on foot from JR Takamatsu Station
There are numerous accommodation facilities in Takamatsu City, making it ideal as a base for a 2-3 day pilgrimage tour of the three islands.
Ogijima Area OGIJIMA AREA
Ogi Port
Ogi Port, the gateway to Ogijima, appears in important scenes within the work. From the moment you arrive at the port, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of houses spread across the hillside.
Near the port is the “Ogi Exchange Hall,” where you can obtain tourism information and use restroom facilities. The port is also home to many cats and is known as a “cat island.”
Steep Slopes and Alleyways
The biggest feature of Ogijima is its steep slopes and intricate alleyways. Many of the scenes appearing in the work are created by this unique topography.
On sacred site pilgrimages, there is the fun of comparing screenshots from the game and searching for the same angles. Since there are many slopes, it is recommended to visit wearing comfortable shoes.
Ogijima Lighthouse
The Ogijima Lighthouse at the northern tip of the island is a beautiful lighthouse characterized by white and black stripes. It appears as an impressive spot in the work.
The lighthouse is about 20 minutes on foot from the port. The scenery along the way is also wonderful, allowing you to enjoy spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea while taking a walk.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Points for Ogijima
- Time Required: 2–3 hours
- Means of Transportation: On foot (there are no rental bicycles on the island)
- Notes: Due to many slopes, those lacking confidence in their physical stamina should proceed at a leisurely pace
- Recommendation: Early morning or evening walks have particularly good atmosphere
Megijima Area MEGIJIMA AREA
Megijima Port
The area around Megijima Port, the gateway to Megijima, also features spots that appear in the work. The port has “Oni Island Oni no Yakata,” where you can view exhibits related to the Momotaro legend.
The harbor area is relatively flat, and there are rental bicycle shops. Using a bicycle allows you to tour the island efficiently.
Coastline
The coastline of Megijima appears in seaside scenes in the work. You can enjoy summer-like scenery such as sandy beaches and breakwaters.
Especially at dusk, the coastline is beautiful and is a perfect spot to fully experience the work’s atmosphere.
Oni Island Great Cave
The Oni Island Great Cave, a major tourist attraction on Megijima, is said to be the cave where the demon from the Momotaro legend lived. It is worth visiting as a detour on a sacred site pilgrimage.
The cave is about 10 minutes by bus or bicycle from the port. The inside of the cave is cool even in summer, making it perfect for escaping the heat.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Points for Megijima
- Time Required: 2–3 hours
- Means of Transportation: Rental bicycle recommended
- Rental Bicycle Charge: Approximately 500 yen/day
- Notes: There are many tourist attractions, so allow plenty of time
Naoshima Area NAOSHIMA AREA
Miyaura Port
Miyaura Port, the gateway to Naoshima, is the model for the scene where protagonist Hairei lands on Toroshiro Island. The port features Yayoi Kusama’s “Red Pumpkin,” allowing you to enjoy both art appreciation and sacred site pilgrimage simultaneously.
The area around the port is convenient as a pilgrimage base, with tourism information offices, rental bicycle shops, and cafes concentrated there.
Honmura District
The Honmura District of Naoshima, where old townscapes remain, appears in scenes of shopping streets and residential areas in the work. The landscape of narrow alleyways and old houses creates a nostalgic atmosphere.
The “House Project,” a collection of art works, is scattered throughout the Honmura District, allowing you to combine sacred site pilgrimage with art appreciation.
Yamajinja Shrine
The Yamajinja Shrine is said to be the model for the shrine appearing in the work. Located on a small hill, the shrine grounds offer views overlooking the Seto Inland Sea.
You must climb steep stairs to reach the shrine, but the sense of accomplishment upon arrival and the beauty of the scenery are exceptional.
Naoshima Dam, Ishii Store, and Iwata Confectionery
Naoshima Dam is an important spot appearing in the work. Additionally, actual stores such as Ishii Store and Iwata Confectionery serve as models and are must-see points for fans.
Since these spots are operating private stores, care must be taken to follow manners when visiting and not cause inconvenience to the owners.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Points for Naoshima
- Time Required: Half day to full day
- Means of Transportation: Rental bicycle or municipal bus
- Rental Bicycle Charge: Approximately 300–1,000 yen/day (electric-assist bicycles also available)
- Notes: Many art facilities are closed on Mondays. Visiting Thursday–Sunday is recommended
Ferry Timetables and Access Information
Ferries Departing from Takamatsu Port
To Naoshima (Shikoku Kisen)
- Takamatsu Port → Miyaura Port: Approximately 50 minutes
- 4–5 departures daily
- Fare: 520 yen one way (as of 2024)
To Megijima/Ogijima (Shioujima Marine “Meon”)
- Takamatsu Port → Megijima Port: Approximately 20 minutes
- Megijima Port → Ogijima Port: Approximately 20 minutes
- 6–7 departures daily
- Fares: Takamatsu → Megijima 370 yen, Takamatsu → Ogijima 510 yen one way (as of 2024)
Notes on Ferry Usage
- Limited Frequency: Particularly the Megijima/Ogijima ferries have limited departures, so checking the timetable in advance is essential
- Watch the Last Ferry: Missing the last ferry means you will need to stay overnight on the island, so time management is crucial
- Cancellations Due to Weather: Services may be cancelled during rough seas, so confirm the day’s operations
- Peak Season: During Golden Week, summer vacation, and art festival periods, ferries become crowded, so board early
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
1-Night, 2-Day Course
Day 1
- 9:00 Arrive at Takamatsu Port
- 9:40 Depart Takamatsu Port → Megijima
- 10:00–12:00 Megijima sacred site pilgrimage
- 12:20 Depart Megijima → Ogijima
- 12:40–15:30 Ogijima sacred site pilgrimage
- 16:10 Depart Ogijima → Takamatsu Port
- 17:00 Stay overnight in Takamatsu City
Day 2
- 9:00 Depart Takamatsu Port → Naoshima
- 9:50–16:00 Naoshima sacred site pilgrimage
- 16:30 Depart Naoshima → Takamatsu Port
- 17:30 Arrive at Takamatsu Port, head home
2-Night, 3-Day Course (Recommended)
Day 1
- Afternoon Arrive in Takamatsu, sightsee in the city
- Stay overnight in Takamatsu City
Day 2
- Morning Megijima sacred site pilgrimage
- Afternoon Ogijima sacred site pilgrimage
- Stay overnight in Takamatsu City
Day 3
- Full day Naoshima sacred site pilgrimage + art appreciation
- Evening Head home from Takamatsu Port
A 2-night, 3-day course allows you to tour each island leisurely with sufficient time for photography and art appreciation.
Accommodation Information
Hotels in Takamatsu City
Takamatsu City has various types of accommodation facilities. Hotels near the station or close to the ferry terminal are convenient.
- Business Hotels: 5,000–8,000 yen/night
- City Hotels: 8,000–15,000 yen/night
- Guest Houses: 3,000–5,000 yen/night
Accommodation on the Islands
Naoshima has several accommodation facilities, but Ogijima and Megijima have limited options.
Naoshima
- Benesse House (luxury resort)
- Several private inns and guest houses
Ogijima
- Several private inns (reservation required)
Megijima
- Several private inns (reservation required)
Island accommodations require advance reservations, and especially during peak seasons, early booking is necessary.
Checklist of Items to Bring for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Essential Items
- Game/Anime Screenshots: Essential for identifying sacred sites
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Particularly important for Ogijima with its many slopes
- Sunscreen/Hat: The summer Seto Inland Sea has intense sunlight
- Drinking Water: There are few vending machines on the islands
- Mobile Battery: Battery drains quickly with photo-taking
- Ferry Timetable: Essential to avoid missing the last ferry
Helpful Items
- Picnic Blanket: For resting at scenic spots
- Binoculars: For viewing distant scenery
- Towel: For wiping sweat
- Raincoat: To prepare for sudden rain
- Small Change: Many island shops accept cash only
Manners and Precautions for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Consideration for Residents
Naoshima, Ogijima, and Megijima are islands where people actually live. When undertaking sacred site pilgrimages, note the following:
- Do Not Trespass on Private Property: Even at photo spots, do not enter private land
- Keep Noise Levels Down: Be quiet in residential areas
- Take Trash Home: Island trash bins are for resident use
- Respect Operating Businesses: In addition to photo-taking, consider making purchases
Notes for Photography
- Consideration for Other Tourists: Avoid occupying locations for extended periods
- Do Not Block Traffic: Be mindful of surroundings when photographing in narrow alleyways
- SNS Posts: Be considerate of residents’ privacy when posting
Environmental Protection
Help protect the beautiful scenery of the islands through environmental conservation.
- Beach Cleanup Activities: Consider participating in cleanup activities organized by groups like Kagawa Tokyu
- Do Not Damage Nature: Do not pick plants or write on rocks
Seasonal Enjoyment
Spring (March–May)
Mild weather makes this an ideal season for sacred site pilgrimage. During cherry blossom season, flower viewing is also possible on the islands.
Summer (June–August)
Summer, the work’s setting, is the season where atmosphere is most fully experienced. However, sunlight is extremely intense, making heat stroke prevention essential.
In years when the Setouchi International Art Festival is held (every three years), summer sessions allow you to enjoy both art appreciation and sacred site pilgrimage simultaneously.
Autumn (September–November)
Comfortable weather and fewer tourists make this ideal for leisurely pilgrimage. The clear autumn air over the Seto Inland Sea creates beautiful scenery.
Winter (December–February)
Fewer tourists make it possible to visit sites quietly. However, ferries are more prone to cancellation, making weather forecast checks essential.
Kagawa Tourism Enjoyable Alongside Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Udon Tour
Kagawa Prefecture is known as “Udon Prefecture.” Numerous famous udon shops are located in Takamatsu City and near the islands, allowing you to enjoy authentic Sanuki udon between pilgrimages.
Setouchi International Art Festival
Held once every three years, this contemporary art festival features islands throughout the Seto Inland Sea, including Naoshima, transformed by art works. Visiting in a festival year allows you to enjoy both sacred site pilgrimage and art appreciation simultaneously.
Takamatsu Castle Ruins (Tamarugarden)
A historic site in Takamatsu City where seawater is drawn into the moat—an unusual feature. Within walking distance of Takamatsu Port, it can be visited during wait times.
Ritsurin Garden
A Japanese garden designated as a special scenic place by the nation. Located in Takamatsu City, it offers beautiful scenery.
Short Story SHORT STORY
On a summer morning, I stepped onto Takamatsu Port, clutching a ferry ticket in my hand. I had come from a distant city to touch the world of “Summer Pockets.”
After 40 minutes aboard Meon, arriving at Ogijima, the scenery I had seen countless times on the game screen spread before my eyes. Houses stacked on a hillside, narrow alleyways, and blue sea. Everything was exactly as the work depicted.
Climbing the slope, I trace the path Hairei and the others walked. Seeing the same scenery, feeling the same wind. That alone was enough for that summer’s story to come alive once more.
When I reached the lighthouse, a spectacular view of the Seto Inland Sea spread before me. What must they have felt here? The summer in the game merges with the summer of reality.
Sacred site pilgrimage is not mere tourism. It is a special experience of entering the world of the work and spending the same time as the characters. The islands of Kagawa are places that provide such an experience.
Summary
Naoshima, Ogijima, and Megijima, the sacred sites of Summer Pockets in Kagawa Prefecture, each possess different charms. Because ferry frequencies are limited, advance planning is important, but if toured efficiently, even 1–2 nights can be thoroughly enjoyable.
For those who wish to experience the work’s world more deeply, a 2–3 night course touring leisurely is recommended. Through each island’s scenery, art, cuisine, and interactions with local people, your understanding of the work will deepen further.
When undertaking sacred site pilgrimages, remember to be considerate of residents and prioritize environmental protection, enjoying responsibly. Preserving the beautiful scenery and culture of the islands for future generations is also an important role for fans.
On three islands floating in the summer Seto Inland Sea, create your own Summer Pockets memories.
