Tokushima Prefecture, situated on the captivating island of Shikoku, may not be the first destination that comes to mind for those planning a trip to Japan. Yet, for those intrepid travelers who venture to this corner of the country, Tokushima offers an array of experiences that deliver a rich tapestry of culture, natural beauty, and culinary delight.
With an assortment of landmarks and activities that range from historical sites to scenic wonders, Tokushima invites visitors to immerse themselves in its cultural heritage and verdant landscapes. From the rituals of traditional dance to the fresh flavors of its local cuisine, this often-underrated destination provides a breadth of opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Top Tokushima Destinations
Tidal Spectacles of Naruto
The Naruto Whirlpools are a natural marvel situated in the waters between Awaji Island and Tokushima, within the Naruto Strait. Visitors may witness these captivating swirls from a boat tour or from the land at the Uzushio Observation Deck.
Remote Valleys and Traditional Bridges
Iya Valley is recognized for its untouched landscapes and distinct historical vine bridges, such as Kazurabashi, which stretch over the Iya River. These bridges were constructed using woven vines and have served as vital links for remote communities over generations.
Panoramic Views from Mt. Bizan
The summit of Mt. Bizan provides expansive views of Tokushima City. Adventure-seekers can either hike the trails or take a cable car to reach the top where an observation deck, park, and restaurant await.
Historical Castle Site
At the heart of Tokushima City lie the historical Tokushima Castle Ruins. The remnants of the 16th-century fortress include visible sections of walls and a moat. The nearby museum narrates the castle’s past.
World War II History Preserved
The Bandō Prisoner-of-War Camp Exhibit provides insight into World War II’s influence in Tokushima, offering an educational perspective on the prisoners’ experiences through a collection of period artifacts and documents.
Majestic Mountain Bridges
Within the depths of Tokushima’s mountains, thrill-seekers can discover the Oku-Iya Niju Vine Bridges, an enticing duo of vine bridges that offer a height-intensive crossing experience, standing taller and longer than those in the Iya Valley.
Ascent of Tsurugi-San
Tsurugi-San, the tallest mountain in Tokushima, challenges hikers with its trails, rewarding them with breathtaking natural vistas of the region upon reaching the top. The ascent typically requires a full day but is well worth the effort for the adventurous.
Highlights of Tokushima’s Culture
Ancestral Tribute Through Dance
Tokushima becomes abuzz with energy and color every year from August 12th to 15th as they host a vibrant dance festival. This event, centered around the Obon season—a time to honor returning ancestral spirits—features dancers in traditional attire moving rhythmically to taiko drums. Attracting over a million visitors, this festival stands as a pinnacle of Japanese cultural celebrations.
The Artistry of Puppetry
In Tokushima, puppetry is not merely a performance but a narrative art form passed down through generations. Artisans animate stories of love, conflict, and heroism through meticulously crafted puppets. Expert manipulators, hidden from sight, work in unison to breathe life into these figures, capturing intricate human emotions and retelling age-old tales.
The Craft of Indigo
For centuries, the craft of indigo dyeing has been a treasured traditional practice in Tokushima. Artisans transform indigo plant leaves into vibrant blue dyes and immerse fabrics to attain rich, deep hues. Visitors can explore workshops to witness the intricate process of dyeing and the labor of love that goes into perfecting each piece of fabric.
Marvels of Nature
Viewing Spots for Sakura
During the blossoming season, areas along the Katsuura River transform into a vivid spectacle, with sakura trees blanketing the riverside in pink. The natural display can also be appreciated in the tranquil settings of Tokushima Central Park and Komatsushima Park, where the blooms create serene nature spots for visitors.
Woodland Regions
Tokushima is endowed with pristine woodlands, such as the secluded Iya Valley, characterized by its dramatic scenery. Likewise, Tsurugi-san Quasi-National Park offers a rich, green sanctuary boasting Mount Tsurugi, Western Japan’s second towering peak. The park not only presents invigorating hiking paths but also affords visitors panoramic views of the resplendent natural environment.
Food and Drink
Shikoku’s culinary landscape offers an array of dining options catering to diverse tastes, ranging from time-honored Japanese fare to inventive contemporary meals.
Restaurants across the region: They showcase a cherished regional dish, the Amego freshwater trout, often prepared to perfection with traditional methods.
Incorporating local produce: Tokushima’s gastronomy often incorporates home-grown ingredients like tofu, wild mountain greens, and native potatoes, creating a distinct local flavor profile.
Izakayas: These Japanese-style taverns are abundant, providing an authentic experience with small plates accompanied by a selection of beverages. They’re ideal for savoring Tokushima-style oden, a comforting stew with boiled eggs, daikon, and fish cakes.
- Cafés in Tokushima: A haven for coffee enthusiasts, serving freshly brewed coffee alongside light bites.
- Japanese confections: Often featured in these cafés are traditional sweets such as mochi and wagashi, perfect with a cup of joe.
Sake culture: Sake, a venerable Japanese rice wine, is a point of pride for the prefecture. With multiple breweries, they utilize local rice strains to craft premium sake, celebrated in the area and beyond.
- Local Breweries: These establishments not only produce but also offer tastings and insights into the sake-making process.
Navigating Tokushima
Central Transit Hub: Tokushima Station
Tokushima Station acts as the primary nexus for local and regional travel. This station is a key stop on various JR lines, notably the JR Tokushima Line and the Kotoku Line, allowing convenient access to Anabuki and Takamatsu respectively. It also features an adjacent bus terminal that caters to intra-prefecture travel as well as further-reaching destinations. For extensive railway exploration, consider the JR Pass for unlimited journeys across the JR network.
Suspension Bridge to Awaji: The Naruto Connection
The majestic Naruto Suspension Bridge extends across the Naruto Strait, serving as a vital connection to Awaji Island. Visitors can marvel at the sweeping vistas of the strait while traversing this landmark. The bridge forms part of the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway, ensuring seamless vehicular travel to the Kansai region’s key locales.
Air Travel: Tokushima Awaodori Airport
Strategically located in Matsushige, Tokushima Awaodori Airport is a gateway to the prefecture with domestic routes operated by airlines such as Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways. Main destinations include Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka. Ground transport from the airport is facilitated by shuttle buses to the central train station, with an approximate journey time of 30 minutes priced at around 1,000 yen. For those seeking autonomy, car rental services are available at the airport.
Essential Tips for Tokushima
- Cultural Insight: Embrace the essence of Japanese traditions in Tokushima.
- Stay Duration: Allocate multiple days to explore or partake in the 88 temple pilgrimage.
- Must-See Attractions: Don’t miss the Awa Odori Hall, especially during the mid-August dance festival.
- Natural Wonders: Enjoy the hot springs, vine bridges, and outdoor adventures.
- Local Tip: Visit Tokushima Central Park for a peaceful retreat.
