Takamatsu City is located on the shore of the Seto Inland Sea, with which the city has deep economic and cultural ties. Dotted with myriad islands, the Inland Sea is scenic and relatively calm, and the area has a mild climate and the lowest rainfall in Japan. Takamatsu developed in this picturesque location as both the prefectural capital and as the administrative center for the entire island of Shikoku.

 Founded in the twelfth century, Takamatsu flourished from the late sixteenth century, beginning with the construction of Takamatsu Castle in 1588 by Ikoma Chikamasa, a vassal of the famed general, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Rule subsequently passed from the Ikoma clan to the Matsudaira clan, who governed this prosperous castle town for 220 years. Following the political upheaval of the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Takamatsu became the capital of Kagawa Prefecture and was incorporated as a municipality on February 15, 1890, becoming the 40th incorporated city in Japan.

 The city subsequently expanded with eight municipal mergers and now stretches from the Seto Inland Sea in the north to the border of Tokushima prefecture in the south. It encompasses not only the scenic coastline and the lively city center, but also mountains, rivers, and slow-paced countryside. Takamatsu provides a perfect balance between urban convenience and the bounties of nature, ensuring a good life for its citizens. Infrastructure development, such as the Ohashi Bridge built in 1988, the new Takamatsu Airport built in 1989, and the Shikoku Expressway, which reached Takamatsu in 1992, dramatically improved access to and from the city. The Takamatsu government is dedicated to making the city greener, more compact and more sustainable, and to utilizing the unique features of each area of the city.

 The Setouchi Triennale is an international art festival that spans twelve islands in the Seto Inland Sea. The aim is to revitalize the region's diverse local cultures and connect local communities to the world. The site-specific artworks and performances are collaborative projects by contemporary artists, architects, and local islanders that highlight the region's outstanding natural beauty as well as its disappearing cultures and ways of life. Venues in Takamatsu City include the islands of Megijima, Ogijima, and Oshima, and the area surrounding Takamatsu Port. Held every three years, the third Triennale will begin in the spring of 2016.

 Takamatsu City is also host to the Takamatsu International Piano Competition. Held every four years, the competition aims to promote and further develop musical skills as well as intercultural exchange. The competition also demonstrates the role of Sunport Hall Takamatsu, the competition's venue, as a hub for culture and the arts.

 Takamatsu is rapidly establishing itself as a vibrant center for fine arts and performing arts. It hosts many other musical and cultural events each year, consolidating its identity as an "Art City". Events include free performances on the streets of Takamatsu's shopping district, such as the Music on Every Corner Festival, the Town Classic, and the Buskers' Festival.