COURSE 4
A tour of the old roads looping through the Marugame Kaido and Tadotsu Kaido routes.
Soak up the old townscape
Beginner-Friendly Day Trip
A one-day course from Kotohira through Marugame and Tadotsu. Mostly narrow old roads, so it is recommended for small-wheel bikes, E-BIKEs, and road-bike beginners.
Total course length：33.1km、Elevation gained：206m
Day 1
| 0.4km |
High Lantern
|
|---|---|
| 0.4km |
Kotoden-Kotohira Station
|
| 1km |
Torii Gate on the Marugame Kaido
|
| 6km |
Site of the Yokita Chado (Tea Pavilion)
|
| 12km |
Marugame Castle
|
| 14km |
Tasuke Lantern
|
| 27km |
JGSDF Camp Zentsuji
|
| 29km |
The path beside the railway tracks
|
This is the starting point of the Marugame Kaido road. Standing 27 meters tall, it is said to be the tallest stone lantern in Japan.
The Kotoden Kotohira Station is right next to the Takadōrō (high lantern tower). The yellow trains—reflecting the signature color associated with Konpira-san—evoke a charming, nostalgic atmosphere.
A torii gate that has welcomed and seen off people traveling from Marugame to visit Konpira-san.
A *chadō* is a place—somewhat like a small shop—where travelers can stop to drink tea, exchange information, and purchase items such as straw sandals.
As you run, Marugame Castle comes into view straight ahead; it is distinguished by having the tallest stone walls in Japan.
This was the landing point for regular boats arriving from Osaka. Pilgrims disembarked here and made their way to Konpira-san.
A historic red-brick building completed between the Meiji and Taisho eras. It offers an interesting contrast with the five-story pagoda of Zentsu-ji Temple.
It is a pleasant ride along the JR railway tracks, with fields stretching out and a peaceful atmosphere.To Enjoy Cycling Safely
- Bicycle liability insurance has become mandatory!
- The general rule is to ride on the left side of the roadway. As an exception, when riding on the sidewalk, proceed at a slow speed on the side closest to the road.
- Make sure to turn on your lights three minutes before sunset. Using reflective materials makes you even more visible!
- Using a smartphone, riding while holding an umbrella, or using earphones is prohibited.
- Wearing a helmet helps minimize injury in the event of an accident.
Kagawa Prefecture has enacted the "Ordinance on the Safe Use of Bicycles in Kagawa Prefecture." Let’s all—whether riding a bicycle, walking, or driving a car—share the road with mutual respect for one another and strive for safety.