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Takamatsu, the capital of Kagawa Prefecture on Japan's Shikoku Island, occupies a distinctive coastal position that profoundly shapes its air quality dynamics. Nestled along the Seto Inland Sea's northern shore, the city benefits from the moderating influence of this semi-enclosed body of water, which helps disperse pollutants through consistent sea breezes. The urban core sits on relatively flat coastal plains at low elevation, transitioning to gentle hills in peripheral areas, creating a compressed urban-rural gradient where agricultural zones of Kagawa's famed Sanuki udon wheat fields meet metropolitan development. This geography positions Takamatsu within Japan's Setouchi Industrial Zone, though its industrial footprint is less intensive than major hubs like Osaka, with pollution sources primarily stemming from vehicular traffic, small-scale manufacturing, and seasonal agricultural burning. The city's location on Shikoku's northern coast places it downwind of continental air masses during winter, potentially carrying transboundary pollution from East Asia, while summer southerly flows bring cleaner Pacific air. The surrounding terrain—with mountains to the south partially blocking air circulation—can occasionally trap pollutants during stagnant conditions, though the prevailing maritime influence generally maintains moderate air quality compared to Japan's megacities.

Takamatsu's air quality follows a distinct seasonal rhythm shaped by its maritime climate and regional weather patterns. In winter (December-February), cold northerly winds from the Asian continent can transport particulate matter from industrial regions, occasionally elevating pollution levels, particularly during temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the surface. Sensitive groups should monitor air quality forecasts during these stable atmospheric conditions. Spring (March-May) brings improving conditions as warming temperatures and increased ventilation disperse pollutants, though pollen from local vegetation may affect allergy sufferers. Summer (June-August) offers the cleanest air, with prevailing southerly monsoon winds from the Pacific Ocean sweeping away local emissions, making this ideal for outdoor activities despite high humidity. Autumn (September-November) sees transitional weather with generally good air quality, though occasional fog and reduced wind speeds in October-November can lead to temporary accumulations of local pollutants. Throughout the year, Takamatsu experiences fewer extreme pollution episodes than larger Japanese cities due to its coastal location, but sensitive individuals should remain cautious during winter stagnation events and periods of agricultural burning in surrounding rural areas.