Kitahama Alley

NYC has Williamsburg, London has Shoreditch, and Kagawa has Kitahama Alley. That last name is undoubtedly the least famous of these hip neighborhoods, but Takamatsu’s art, dining and fashion-focused redevelopment zone might well have the most authentic atmosphere. Because whereas cool boutiques and cafes elsewhere try hard to give their premises an artfully worn-in vibe, at Kitahama Alley the salty sea air has already taken care of this design element.

Kitahama Alley

Opened in 2000 with the aim of revitalizing Takamatsu’s port district, which once thrived but had fallen into decline by the end of the 20th century, Kitahama Alley consist of two rows of former Showa era (1926-1989) warehouses, externally still all rust and weathered patinas, that have been renovated inside to house a mix of independently-owned shops, galleries, cafes and restaurants. The project has proved to be a great success, drawing crowds of design-conscious locals and curious travelers alike.

Kitahama Alley

Though Kitahama Alley is just a 15-minute walk from the city’s main Takamatsu Station, the deeply relaxed atmosphere here encourages a slower pace while strolling from spot to spot and breathing in the fresh sea air. Though the businesses opened here each possess their own distinct charm, simply hanging out at the Alley without spending much money is also a pleasure. Warmer months see the stone-paved outdoor space host live music performances, flea markets, and other events, and the nearby ferry terminal makes an impromptu cruise possible should the mood strike.

Kitahama Alley

Umie is among Kitahama Alley’s most popular cafes. The second floor premises was discovered early in the Alley’s history by a design agency searching for new office space. Falling in love with the building’s many charms, particularly the large window that gives a picture-like view out over the Seto Inland Sea, the company felt that it was a place that deserved to be shared. Thus the decision was made to turn it not into a workspace, but instead an open-to-all cafe that reflected the designers’ stylish sensibilities while also preserving much of the original interior. A rack of art, design and photography-related books is on hand to leisurely browse, while recycling plays a big part in the decor, with the rear seats of a car repurposed as a sofa. Coffee and both alcoholic and soft drinks are joined on Umie’s menu by such treats as hot apple pizza and matcha scones.

Kitahama Alley

Elsewhere, Cantina offers fine French bistro-style cuisine, while Kurofuneya is a dining bar with simple Japanese dishes and regular DJ appearances.

Kitahama Alley

Kitahama Alley retail is geared towards a type of lifestyle shop known as zakka-ten (‘general store’) that are popular for their always well-curated mix of interiors, jewelry, kitchen, stationery and basic clothing items. Zakka-ten worth checking out here include the French countryside-flavored Naja Lifestyle Workshop, and Rag-Style which carries goods sourced from Southeast Asia. Other recommended shops include Element, which combines homewares with retro arcade games that you can pop a coin into and play; and trendy women’s boutique Depot.

Kitahama Alley

Come evening Kitahama Alley is a highly popular dating spot. Couples flock here to stroll along pavements illuminated by bulbs strung from wooden beams overhead, and to swoon together at the sun as it sets over the Seto Inland Sea.

Kitahama Alley

3.5

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Kagawa Pref. Takamatsushi Kitahamachou 4-14

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