Hotels in Marugame

Marugame: Where Enchanting Castles Meet Nature's Playground

Discover Marugame, a hidden gem in Kagawa Prefecture, where history and nature intertwine. This charming city boasts the stunning Marugame Castle, a symbol of feudal Japan surrounded by picturesque parks. Wander through traditional Japanese houses in the quaint Shiwaku town, or explore the serene Daigoji Temple and the scenic Honjima Island nearby. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the lush landscapes and hiking trails, while families can enjoy the local theme park. With its unique blend of culture, history, and stunning natural beauty, Marugame is the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Marugame, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Marugame

Some of the best places to stay in Marugame are Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter and Konpira Onsen. The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is perfect for first-time visitors, offering well-preserved Edo-period architecture, charming canals, and unique shops. Konpira Onsen, known for its relaxing hot springs, provides a serene escape. Accommodations in Kurashiki often include boutique hotels and traditional ryokans, while Konpira Onsen features onsen resorts and business hotels. In Marugame, travelers can find a range of options, from downtown hotels to well-known hotel chains, ensuring a comfortable stay during your trip. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Marugame:

1. Kurashiki Bikan Historical QuarterOpens in a new window: This charming area is renowned for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings and picturesque canals, making it a delightful spot for culture enthusiasts. You'll find a mix of shopping, art, and sports activities nearby. For accommodations, consider ANA Crowne Plaza Okayama, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel offering excellent business amenities like multiple meeting rooms and a business center. Another option is Hotel Granvia OkayamaOpens in a new window, which features diverse dining options and is close to vibrant shopping districts. If you're seeking a business-friendly environment, Okayama International HotelOpens in a new window provides essential facilities while ensuring a comfortable stay.
2. Konpira OnsenOpens in a new window: Known for its natural hot springs and cultural heritage, Konpira Onsen is perfect for travelers looking for relaxation and unique experiences. The area boasts attractions like the historic Kotohira-gu Shrine and the Konpira Grand Theatre, making it a wonderful blend of culture and leisure. For an authentic experience, Kotohira Grand Hotel SakuranoshoOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star ryokan with outdoor and indoor public hot springs and a full-service spa. Another option is Kotohira KadanOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star ryokan offering similar hot spring amenities. If you're looking for a mix of relaxation and business facilities, Yumoto Konpira Onsen Hananoyu KoubaiteiOpens in a new window is also a great choice with its onsite hot springs and business services.

What to do in Marugame

A three-day trip to Marugame offers an exciting blend of stunning landscapes and cultural experiences. Travelers can explore lush mountains, serene beaches, and picturesque parks while engaging in activities like hiking, boating, and diving. This vibrant destination promises a memorable adventure for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Marugame:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at Kotohira-gu Shrine, an important Shinto shrine nestled in the mountains, where you can admire its intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings. After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, make your way to Sohonzan Zentsuji Temple, a significant Buddhist temple with beautiful gardens and historical significance. Finally, head to Kotohira Town Hall, where you can learn more about the local culture and history, providing a perfect end to your day of discovery.
• Day 2: Your day starts with a visit to the Great Seto Bridge, an engineering marvel that offers breathtaking views of the inland sea and connecting islands. After enjoying the scenery, venture to Mount Sanbyaku, where hiking trails await and reward you with panoramic vistas. Conclude your day at Washuzan Hill, another scenic spot perfect for sunset watching, where you can relax and take in the natural beauty surrounding you.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Great Seto Bridge once again, as the morning light creates a stunning backdrop for photos. Next, visit Entsuji Temple, known for its serene atmosphere and unique architecture, ideal for a peaceful stroll. Wrap up your journey at the Benesse House Museum, where art meets nature, and you can appreciate modern art installations alongside stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea, making it an enriching finale to your trip.

5 tips to find a great Marugame hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For budget-conscious travelers, the best time to visit Marugame is in January, June, and December, when hotel prices are more affordable. To secure the best flight deals, aim to book at least two months in advance. A stay of at least 1-2 days is recommended to fully enjoy the main attractions, which include the impressive Marugame Castle and beautiful natural parks. With its great value for money, Marugame is an ideal destination for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Marugame, Hotels.com is a great place to start. By checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, you could find competitive hotel rates and good availability right before your trip. To ensure you catch any flash sales and special promotions, consider setting up email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely not to miss out on affordable options for your stay in this charming city.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Marugame.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Marugame and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in Marugame

Here are a few top restaurants to try in Marugame, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan:

• 麺処綿谷: A beloved spot in Marugame known for its authentic udon, this restaurant combines traditional techniques with fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create a memorable dining experience. The rich, flavorful broth and perfectly chewy noodles showcase the artistry of Kagawa’s famous udon culture.
• なかむら: Renowned for its innovative take on classic udon dishes, this eatery emphasizes seasonal ingredients and unique flavor combinations that truly reflect the essence of Kagawa Prefecture. Diners appreciate the balance of tradition and modern culinary creativity found in each bowl.
• 麦香: This popular restaurant offers a delightful variety of udon dishes, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods. Their commitment to excellence and local flavors makes it a must-visit for anyone eager to explore the rich culinary landscape of Marugame.

Best time to go to Marugame

Marugame experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 41.9°F (5.5°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.6°F (27.0°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Marugame, April, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.