Marugame, Port city in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan
Marugame is a port city in Kagawa Prefecture that stretches along the Seto Inland Sea coast and includes several islands as well as Mount Tsutsumi in the southern part. The city sits on Shikoku Island and connects coastal neighborhoods with forested hills inland.
Pilgrims traveling to Kotohira-gu shrine passed through this area during the Heian period, and it later developed into a castle town under the rule of the Kyogoku clan. The castle was built in the 17th century and shaped urban growth for centuries afterward.
The contemporary art museum near the station displays rotating exhibitions featuring local and international artists, drawing visitors interested in modern Japanese art. Many residents visit the museum regularly and use it as a meeting point for cultural events.
The JR Shikoku Yosan railway line links the station with larger cities in the region, while local buses run to the castle and other attractions. Visitors can explore the coastal areas on foot, though public transport is recommended for the hillsides and islands.
An annual marathon event has guided runners through the streets along the coast since 1947, drawing thousands of participants from across Japan. The route runs partly along the sea and offers views of offshore islands during the race.
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