Tokushima Travel Guide

Explore Tokushima, a hidden gem in Japan's Shikoku region. Learn about the best places to visit, eat, and stay with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Tokushima

Nestled in Japan’s Shikoku region, Tokushima is a hidden gem that offers visitors a charming blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant local traditions. Known for its famous Awa Odori dance festival, the prefecture boasts a wealth of cultural landmarks, breathtaking outdoor scenery, and delicious local cuisine.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, don’t miss Tokushima – here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Tokushima

There are countless attractions to explore in Tokushima, ranging from culturally important landmarks to stunning natural vistas. Here are just a few highlights:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tokushima Castle Ruins: a historic castle site that offers stunning views of the surrounding city and countryside.
  • Naruto Whirlpools: witness the incredible natural whirlpools that form beneath the Naruto Bridge.
  • Awa Odori Kaikan: learn about the history and significance of the famous Awa Odori dance festival at this interactive museum.
  • Otsuka Museum of Art: admire an impressive collection of meticulously-crafted ceramic reproductions of classic artworks from around the world.

Natural Attractions of Tokushima: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Iya Valley: this remote yet breathtaking valley boasts stunning views and exciting outdoor activities like hiking and rafting.
  • Tsurugi-san: Tokushima’s highest peak offers challenging hiking trails and spectacular views from the summit.
  • Yoshino River: take a scenic boat ride down this river, which is known for its crystal clear waters and stunning surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tokushima

Tokushima offers a wealth of hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy walking paths to challenging mountain treks. Here are a few popular routes:

  • Mt. Bizan Hiking Trail: this easy hike leads you up to the Bizan observatory, which offers panoramic views of the cityscape below.
  • Okuiya Nature Trail: a scenic hike through the lush forests and mountainous terrain of the Iya Valley.
  • Shimanto River Cycling Road: this 22-kilometer cycling route offers stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Tokushima: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of things to do in Tokushima! Here are a few popular activities and tours to consider:

  • Awa Odori Dance Festival: don’t miss this iconic festival, which takes place each August and showcases Tokushima’s unique dance traditions.
  • Whirlpool Sightseeing Boat Tours: see the stunning Naruto whirlpools up close with a sightseeing boat tour.
  • Sake Brewery Tours: Tokushima is home to several local breweries that offer tours and tastings of their delicious sake.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tokushima

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Tokushima, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your stay:

Day Activities
1 Explore Tokushima City, visit the Tokushima Castle Ruins
2 Hike the Mt. Bizan Hiking Trail, visit the Awa Odori Kaikan museum
3 Take a boat tour of the Naruto Whirlpools, visit the Otsuka Museum of Art
4 Hike the Okuiya Nature Trail in the Iya Valley
5 Tour local sake breweries, enjoy a traditional Japanese ryokan experience
6 Take a scenic cycling trip along the Shimanto River Cycling Road
7 Hike to the summit of Tsurugi-san, enjoy a final evening in Tokushima

Food and Drink Scene of Tokushima

Tokushima is known for its unique blend of traditional Japanese cuisine and local delicacies. Here are a few must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sobagaki: a simple yet satisfying local dish made from freshly ground buckwheat flour.
  • Jakoten: crispy fish cakes made from a mixture of fish paste and flour.
  • Iya Soba: traditional Japanese soba noodles made with local ingredients and served with a variety of toppings.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Tokushima is home to several local sake breweries, which offer a wide range of delicious and unique varieties.
  • Sudachi Juice: made from a small citrus fruit that is native to the region, this refreshing juice is a popular local beverage.

Where to Stay in Tokushima: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tokushima offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are a few popular choices:

  • Hotel Sunroute Tokushima: located in the heart of the city, this comfortable hotel offers convenient access to local attractions and amenities.
  • Guesthouse Oheya: a cozy guesthouse with a communal kitchen and living room, this is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Iya Valley Guesthouse: for a unique and secluded experience, consider staying in the Iya Valley and enjoying the natural surroundings.

What to Buy in Tokushima: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift to bring home from Tokushima, here are a few local products to consider:

  • Awa Indigo Dye: this traditional method of dyeing cotton results in a deep blue color that is unique to Tokushima.
  • Sudachi Products: try locally-made Sudachi juice, or bring home some Sudachi-flavored snacks or seasonings.
  • Jakoten: crispy fish cakes made from local ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Tokushima

Tokushima is known for its rich cultural heritage and unique local customs. To fully appreciate your visit, it’s helpful to know a few key facts:

  • Awa Odori Dance Festival: this iconic festival is a highlight of Tokushima’s cultural calendar, and visitors are encouraged to participate in the dance and festivities.
  • Respect for Elders: in Japanese culture, elders are highly respected and honored, so it’s important to show deference and respect to older individuals.
  • Etiquette in Public Spaces: in Japan, it’s important to be mindful of others in public spaces – avoid talking loudly or making a scene, and be sure to dispose of your trash properly.

Best Time to Visit Tokushima

The best time to visit Tokushima depends on your preferences and interests. Here are a few factors to consider:

  • Awa Odori Dance Festival: if you’re interested in attending the iconic Awa Odori festival, plan your visit for August when the festival takes place.
  • Cherry Blossom Season: like much of Japan, Tokushima offers stunning views of cherry blossoms in the spring – plan your visit in late March or early April to enjoy this natural spectacle.
  • Outdoor Activities: if you’re interested in hiking or other outdoor activities, consider visiting in the fall when the weather is cooler and the scenery is at its most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tokushima

To make the most of your visit to Tokushima, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages, including sake, Jakoten, and Awa Indigo dye.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, such as bowing and showing deference to elders.
  • Be polite and considerate in public spaces, and avoid making a scene or creating unnecessary noise.

Don’t:

  • Wear your shoes indoors – in Japan, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering a home or other indoor space.
  • Eat or drink while walking – it’s considered impolite in Japan to eat or drink while walking in public.
  • Be late to appointments or meetings – punctuality is highly valued in Japanese culture.

Safety and Health

Tokushima is generally a safe and healthy destination for travelers. Here are a few key things to keep in mind:

Safety in Tokushima

  • Be mindful of natural hazards like steep cliffs, strong currents, and inclement weather conditions when hiking, rafting, or participating in other outdoor activities.
  • Use caution when crossing the street or walking around busy areas – traffic in Japan can be unpredictable.
  • Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings when in crowded or touristy areas.

Health in Tokushima

  • The tap water in Tokushima is safe to drink.
  • Be sure to pack any necessary medications or prescriptions in case you are unable to find them locally.
  • In case of a medical emergency, dial 119 for an ambulance or go to the nearest hospital or clinic.

Getting to Tokushima: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tokushima is accessible by a variety of transportation methods. Here are a few options to consider:

Airports Near Tokushima

  • Tokushima Awaodori Airport: this small airport offers domestic flights to several major Japanese cities.

Bus Stations Near Tokushima

  • Tokushima Bus Terminal: this central bus station offers regional bus service throughout the prefecture and beyond.
  • JR Tokushima Station: the central train station also offers regional bus service from its nearby bus terminal.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: renting a car is a great option for exploring the more remote areas of Tokushima.
  • Ferry: there are several ferry routes that connect Tokushima to other nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Tokushima

Tokushima is a relatively small prefecture and is easily navigable by public transportation or rental car. Here are a few options:

  • Buses: there are several local bus routes that connect popular attractions and cities throughout Tokushima.
  • Trains: the JR Tokushima Line connects many cities and towns within the prefecture.
  • Rental Car: for maximum flexibility, consider renting a car and exploring the countryside at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Tokushima: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your travels beyond Tokushima, here are a few nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Matsuyama: this charming city on the nearby island of Shikoku boasts a wealth of historic landmarks and hot springs.
  • Hiroshima: this nearby city is infamous for its tragic history but is now a vibrant and modern metropolis.
  • Osaka: Japan’s third-largest city is a cultural and culinary hub that offers something for every traveler.

Conclusion

Tokushima is a small but mighty destination that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure. From the iconic Awa Odori festival to the stunning natural scenery of the Iya Valley, there’s something for every traveler to discover in this hidden gem of Japan’s Shikoku region. Book your trip today and experience the magic of Tokushima for yourself!

Dancer figures at the Awa Odori Kaikan Dancer figures at the Awa Odori Kaikan Map of central Tokushima Map of central Tokushima Statue at Tokushima Castle Statue at Tokushima Castle Bridge to Tokushima Castle Bridge to Tokushima Castle Awa Dance Memorial Hall Awa Dance Memorial Hall