Taiwanese flag carrier China Airlines will inaugurate its Taipei Taoyuan-Takamatsu service tomorrow as part of its continued plan to expand its coverage to Japan.
The CI178/179 flight will be the first direct service by a Taiwanese airline to the largest city of Shikoku, the smallest and least populated among the first main islands of Japan. It is famous for its 88-temple pilgrimage and its pulp and paper industry – among other things. Takamatsu, the capital of the northern Kagawa prefecture, is the gateway to the island's many scenic areas. It is also Shikoku's transportation hub due to its proximity to main Japanese island of Honshu. Famous attractions here include Tamamo Park (Ruins of Takamatsu Castle) and Shionoe Hot Spring Resort.
The launch of this new service is also timed to coincide with the spring season of the Setouchi Triennale, an international art festival taking place on various islands in the Seto Inland Sea – a busy waterway between Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu islands. The flight departs every Thursday and Sunday and is serviced by a Boeing 737-800 fitted with eight business class seats and 150 economy seats.
Sanuki udon noodles, a famous local dish of Takamatsu, will be served on this new flight.
China Airlines is also increasing the CI170/171 Taipei-Toyama frequency on April 18, to serve travellers visiting the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. Kaohsiung-Osaka routes will be increased from two to five flights per week starting July 2.
Visit www.china-airlines.com
Reggie Ho
