From Udon Lines to Setouchi Islands: A Real-World Connectivity Guide for Rakuten Mobile Users Traveling in Kagawa. – Rakuten Mobile Guide | Save Money with Employee Referral Campaign, Affordable Mobile Plans, and SIM Card Tips

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Whenever I visit Kagawa Prefecture, it feels less like a tourist destination and more like a “second home.” Every time I return to this place, I find myself looking forward to something new. And honestly? It’s a bit of a nerdy experiment: “How well does my smartphone actually connect in these places?” (Yes, I’m serious about this! haha)

If I can solve those little frustrations—like my video buffering while waiting in a long udon line or my map failing to load on an art island—travel becomes so much freer and more enjoyable. In this post, I’d like to share my real-world experiences using Rakuten Mobile across my favorite spots in Kagawa.

1. Conquering Kagawa’s Soul Food: Udon

I’ve narrowed this down significantly. There are roughly 600 to 900 udon shops in Kagawa. After visiting many, I’ve picked just “three” that I personally keep coming back to.

Yamadaya Udon

In a nutshell: A treat for yourself

A luxurious udon shop housed in a registered tangible cultural property.

Address: 3186 Mure, Mure-cho, Takamatsu
Payment: Cash / Credit Cards
Connectivity: Very stable, even indoors.

Note: I’ve been eating their “Kama-bukkake set” for years. The noodles are perfectly chewy, and the tempura is crispy. The atmosphere in the tatami room is truly special.

Gamou

In a nutshell: The King of Udon

An iconic shop standing in the middle of a rice field with a legendary queue.

Address: 420-1 Kamo-cho, Sakaide
Payment: Cash only (bring coins!)
Connectivity: Decent. No major issues.

Note: The first place I head to after landing at the airport. Eating outside adds that authentic Kagawa touch.

Azumaya

In a nutshell: A hidden gem I want to keep secret

A beloved local spot, even visited by former NBA player Yuta Watanabe.

Address: 340-1 Maeda-higashi-cho, Takamatsu
Payment: Cash / QR Payment
Connectivity: No stress at all.

Note: Their crispy squid (geso) tempura is a must-try. The staff’s energy always cheers me up!

2. The Star of Kagawa Nights: Honetsukidori

Most udon shops close by evening, so it’s time for the famous bone-in chicken!

Ikkaku (Takamatsu Branch)

In a nutshell: It’s not just about Udon!

The gold standard for Honetsukidori.

Address: 4-11 Kajiyamachi, Takamatsu
Payment: Cash / Cards (Reservations recommended)
Connectivity: Excellent in the city center.

Note: The spicy seasoning is pure happiness. Dipping the rice balls into the leftover chicken oil is a pro move. (And yes, the photo I used is actually from the Yokohama branch! haha)

※Actually, the photo I used here is from the Yokohama branch! lol

Yoridori Midori

In a nutshell: A great alternative to Ikkaku

A hidden gem with a relaxed atmosphere, serving Marugame-style chicken.

Address: 1-11 Gobo-cho, Takamatsu
Payment: Cash / Cards / QR Payment
Connectivity: Good.

Ranmaru

In a nutshell: Drinks and chicken with friends!

A popular, lively izakaya in the heart of Takamatsu.

Address: 7-4 Daikumachi, Takamatsu
Payment: Cash / QR Payment
Connectivity: Good. Posting on social media is a breeze.

3. The Islands of Setouchi

Whether it’s the art-filled Naoshima, the cat-filled Ogijima, or the olive-scented Shodoshima, the major areas are generally well-connected. But remember:

Slow down, breathe, and enjoy the luxury of doing nothing. That is the essence of island travel.

Naoshima

In a nutshell: A refined art island

A “holy site” for art lovers, home to Yayoi Kusama’s pumpkins, the Chichu Art Museum, and so much more. It’s a wonderful island to explore by bicycle.

Ogijima

In a nutshell: A healing island of cats

Known for its unique landscape of winding slopes and a high chance of meeting friendly local cats. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing getaway.

Shodoshima

In a nutshell: A large island famous for olives!

The second-largest island in the Seto Inland Sea. It’s packed with attractions, including olive groves and the stunning Angel Road.

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Finding Luxury in Disconnection

My biggest takeaway from this trip? “It’s mostly fine.” But there’s one more thing: sometimes, when the signal drops on those beautiful islands, it’s actually a stroke of luck. It’s a chance to disconnect from notifications, gaze at the sea, and simply breathe.

So, while it’s great to use your phone to travel efficiently, don’t be afraid to put it away and immerse yourself in the air of Kagawa. Enjoy the journey!