I had a three day two night trip from Kyoto to the inland sea, going to Naoshima (one night at Bennese) and on to Takamatsu (one night), then returning to Kyoto. We have a full 6 days in Kyoto surrounding this (3 days before and 3 days after). I have been informed that Bennese is closed for renovations during the time of my 2 wk mid-April trip, so now can't go there (very bummed about this) and am researching other options for the second night. We are not interested in Matsuyama. At Takamatsu we are going to Shikoku Mura, Ritsurin Koen, and the sculpture museum of Isamu Noguchi. I am wondering about going from Takamatsu to Kochi. Has anyone gone to Kochi, and if so can you give me an idea of the flavor of the town and what you did with your time there? If you recommend it, should we do it as a day trip from Takamatsu or stay. overnight in Kochi?
We are also considering an overnight in Kobe after Takamatsu.

Florence? hoping you see this....

I went to Kochi last November. The city is known for its original castle. If you have been to Himeji already, I would skip the city. Instead, I would visit Kotohira as a daytrip from Takamatsu. Near the shrine is the oldest Kabuki theater in Japan which is open for viewing.

frommers.com/destinations/takamatsu/2938010011.html

After you have visited Shikoku Mura, stop at Zaigoudon-Waraya for some Sanuki udon

frommers.com/destinations/takamatsu/D50558.html

emd: Since you're going to Shikoku, maybe this would interest you. I've never been there myself, but have read a lot of good reviews of the place. It sounds really great.

The Chiiori Project, Iya Valley, Shikoku

"The Chiiori Project works to revive and preserve Japanese traditional culture, lifestyle, and environment. It is an Edo-period thatched-roof farmhouse set among cedar and bamboo groves in the countryside. There are work weekends, workshops, and seminars. Activities include: farming, hiking, tofu and soba making, bamboo and thatch cutting, and folktales."

www.chiiori.org

Mealea, that sounds exactly like our kind of hands-on place, and we have been really looking for a place to make sobu or tofu. I will check it out.

rsm, thank you. I had seen the Kabuki theater already. I posted here a few months ago asking if anyone knew how to get tickets for their special once a year performances there that happen mid to late April when we will be there. I mistakenly thought it was closer to Takashima than a day trip though. Will look back again at that area.

Thank you both for your suggestions. I really appreciate it.