Things to do in Tokushima: Located on the island of Shikoku, Tokushima Prefecture is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists visiting Japan.
However, this prefecture has a lot to offer for those who are looking for a unique and authentic experience.
Top Attractions in Tokushima
If you are planning a trip to Tokushima, you must be wondering what are the top attractions that you should not miss.
Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Tokushima.
Naruto Whirlpools
The Naruto Whirlpools are one of the most famous natural attractions in Tokushima.
These whirlpools are created by the tidal currents in the Naruto Strait, which is located between the islands of Awaji and Tokushima.
You can take a boat tour to see the whirlpools up close, or you can observe them from the Uzushio Observation Deck.
Iya Valley and Vine Bridges
The natural beauty and traditional architecture of Iya Valley, a remote mountainous region, are well-known.
The valley has several vine bridges, made of vines and wood, that suspend over the Iya River.
Local villagers originally built these bridges to connect the isolated communities in the valley.
Mt. Bizan
Mt. Bizan is a mountain in the center of Tokushima City that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
You can reach the summit of the mountain by taking a cable car or by hiking up the trail.
At the top, you will find a park, a restaurant, and an observation deck.
Tokushima Castle Ruins
The Castle Ruins are located in the center of Tokushima City and offer a glimpse into the history of the region.
The castle was built in the 16th century and was destroyed in the 19th century.
Today, you can see the remains of the castle walls and the moat as well as visit the Tokushima castle museum.
Bandō Prisoner-of-War Camp Exhibit
The Bandō Prisoner-of-War Camp Exhibit dedicates itself to the history of the Bandō Prisoner-of-War Camp, located in Tokushima during World War II.
The museum displays artifacts and documents about the camp and the prisoners who were held there.
Oku-Iya Niju Vine Bridges
The Oku-Iya Niju Vine Bridges are another set of vine bridges that are deep in the mountains of Tokushima.
These bridges are longer and higher than the ones in Iya Valley and offer a thrilling experience for those who are not afraid of heights.
Tsurugi-San
Tsurugi-San is the highest peak in the prefecture and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
There are several trails that lead to the summit, and the hike takes about 6-7 hours round trip.
Cultural Highlights
Tokushima is a prefecture steeped in history and tradition.
Awa Odori Dance Festival
The Awa Odori Dance Festival is one of the most famous festivals in Japan.
It takes place in Tokushima every year from August 12th to 15th.
The festival is a celebration of the Obon season.
A time when ancestors’ spirits return to the world of the living.
During the festival, dancers dressed in traditional clothing perform a lively and energetic dance to the beat of taiko drums.
The festival attracts over a million visitors each year, making it one of the largest festivals in Japan.
Traditional Puppetry
Bunraku is a form of puppetry that originated in Osaka in the 17th century and became popular in Tokushima during the Edo period.
The puppets used in Bunraku are incredibly detailed and lifelike, with multiple operators controlling different parts of the puppet’s body.
The performances often tell epic tales of love and betrayal, and the puppeteers use their skills to convey a range of emotions.
Indigo Dyeing
People in Tokushima have practiced the traditional craft of indigo dyeing for centuries.
They make the dye from the leaves of the indigo plant and dye the fabric by repeatedly dipping it into the dye until they achieve the desired shade.
The area is home to many indigo dyeing workshops, where visitors can learn about the history and techniques of this craft and even try their hand at dyeing their own fabric.
Natural Wonders
Tokushima Prefecture is an ideal destination for nature lovers.
The region boasts an array of natural wonders, including cherry blossom spots, beaches, rivers, and forest areas.
Cherry Blossom Spots
Cherry blossom season is a popular time to visit.
Some of the best spots to view cherry blossoms include the Tokushima Central Park, Komatsushima Park, and the Katsuura River.
The Katsuura River is particularly famous for its cherry blossom trees, which create a stunning pink canopy over the river.
Forest Areas
The Prefecture is also home to several forest areas, including the Iya Valley and the Tsurugi-san Quasi-National Park.
The Iya Valley is a remote and rugged area with stunning natural beauty.
The Tsurugi-san Quasi-National Park is home to Mount Tsurugi, which is the second-highest peak in western Japan.
The park is also home to several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Food and Drink
From traditional Japanese cuisine to modern fusion dishes, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Restaurants throughout the prefecture serve the popular local specialty of Amego freshwater trout.
Tokushima cuisine frequently features local ingredients such as tofu, mountain vegetables, and local potatoes.
For a unique dining experience, visit the local Izakayas, Japanese-style pubs that serve small dishes and drinks.
These cozy establishments offer the chance to try local specialties like Tokushima-style oden, a hot pot dish with ingredients such as boiled eggs, daikon radish, and fish cakes.
For coffee lovers, there are many great cafes in around where you can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee and a light snack.
Some cafes also offer traditional Japanese sweets like mochi and wagashi.
When it comes to alcohol, the whole area is known for its sake, which is a traditional Japanese rice wine.
There are many local breweries in the prefecture that produce high-quality sake using locally grown rice.
Getting Around Tokushima
When it comes to getting around , there are several options available. Here are some of the best ways to get around the area:
Tokushima Station
Tokushima Station is the main transportation hub in the prefecture.
It is served by several train lines, including the JR Tokushima Line, which runs from Tokushima to Anabuki, and the Kotoku Line, which runs from Tokushima to Takamatsu.
The station also has a bus terminal, which serves local and regional bus routes.
If you’re planning to explore the area by train, you can purchase a JR Pass, which allows you to travel on JR trains throughout Japan for a set period of time.
Onaruto Bridge
The Onaruto Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the Naruto Strait, connecting the Prefecture with Awaji Island.
The bridge is a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the strait and the surrounding area.
If you’re planning to drive around the prefecture, the Onaruto Bridge is an important landmark to keep in mind.
The bridge is part of the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway, which connects Tokushima with other major cities in the Kansai region.
Tokushima Airport
Tokushima Airport is located in Matsushige.
Several domestic airlines, including Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways, fly here.
The airport offers flights to several major cities in Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka.
If you’re planning to fly into Tokushima, you can take a bus from the airport to Tokushima Station.
The bus ride takes about 30 minutes and costs around 1,000 yen.
Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport and drive to your destination.
Before You Go
Visiting Tokushima is definitely something you should consider as it’ll give you a glimpse of real Japanese culture.
You could spend a few days here, or go hardcore and visit as part of the 88 temple pilgrimage.
the area is well-known for its natural hot springs, swinging vine bridges, outdoor activities, and spectacular scenery.
