21 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Tokushima Prefecture | Apr 2025
Iya Valley All Must-Sees Private Chauffeur Full-day Tour with a Driver
For a more efficient way to explore Iya Valley, take a private taxi on a one-day tour! To start your day, meet your driver at your hotel near Oboke Staion.
4.82 (11 reviews)
From $335.79
Private Iya Valley Half Day Tour
Experience Japan’s Hidden Gems with a Private Taxi Tour! Explore the breathtaking Iya Valley and Oku-Iya region in comfort and efficiency with our private taxi service.
From $314.80
Indigo Dyeing Experience : Scarf / Tokushima, Shikoku
Design and dye your own indigo masterpiece in the old townscape of Udatsu in Wakimachi, an area that has been the heart of Tokushima's indigo production since the Edo period.
5.00 (1 reviews)
From $39.18
Tokushima & Mt. Bizan BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour
In principle, reservations are for two persons or more. A course that runs through the castle town, centering on Mt. Take the ropeway from the Awa Odori Kaikan at the foot of Mt.
5.00 (1 reviews)
From $138.51
Oku-Iya Cab Plan 6 Hours Course / Tokushima, Shikoku
Visit the highlights of Oku-Iya in this six-hour private tour. Local specialty lunch with Iya soba noodles is included.
From $160.90
Iya Valley BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour
In principle, reservations are for two persons or more. This tour lets you experience the beauty of the hidden Iya Valley at first hand through the magic of the BROMPTON bicycle.
4.96 (24 reviews)
From $138.51
Iya Valley All Must-Sees Private Chauffeur Half-day Tour with a Driver
For a more efficient way to explore Iya Valley, take a private taxi on a 4-hour tour! To start your day, meet your driver at your hotel, or anywhere at your convenience.
4.50 (2 reviews)
From $223.86
Tokushima Private Customizable Full Day Tour
This private and customizable tour for Tokushima is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace.
From $277.02
Indigo Dyeing Experience : Handkerchief / Tokushima, Shikoku
Design and dye your own indigo masterpiece in the old townscape of Udatsu in Wakimachi, an area that has been the heart of Tokushima's indigo production since the Edo period.
From $14.69
Wakimachi BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour
This tour takes you along the Yoshino River to the historic town of Wakimachi. The meeting place is BROMPTON STATION, a 150-year-old renovated old house.
5.00 (5 reviews)
From $83.95
Enjoy the Sea of Clouds in Oboke Iya Cab Plan / Tokushima,Shikoku
View the spectacular sea of clouds phenomenon at a local hidden spot with a driver who is familiar with the area. Fear not the mountain roads! Where the Yoshino River winds deep into the mountains of Iya, a phenomenon of mists gathering and flowing through the valley is called the “sea of clouds”.
From $39.18
World Agricultural Heritage BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour
Explore the streets where old-fashioned life remains. An elegant time to buy sweets at a local Japanese confectionery store and eat them in an old mansion in the Edo period.
From $125.92
Ikeda Reservoir BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour
In principle, reservations are for two persons or more. On this tour, you cycle around the Ikeda Reservoir formed in the middle of the Yoshino River.
5.00 (3 reviews)
From $104.93
Tokushima Motomachi Private Activity Tour by Fine Arts
Few opportunities exist for foreigner visitors or even Japanese people to handle traditional puppets and learn about their structure and manipulation and see behind the scene views.
From $75.00
Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour
This is a course to experience the Shikoku Pilgrimage by pottering around. This tour is recommended for those who are interested in the pilgrimage but think it might be a bit difficult to visit 88 pilgrimage sites on foot.
From $138.51
Mima Temple-Town BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour
You can enjoy the peaceful countryside surrounding the beautiful Yoshino River. You can also visit the historical temples.
From $104.93
Naruto Seaside BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour
As a rule, reservations are for two persons or more. This is a pottering tour that allows you to enjoy the scenery of Naruto's sea.
From $138.51
Half-Day Private Bike Tour in Mima City
Wakimachi, Mima City, located in the middle basin of the Yoshino River, a major river in Shikoku, is a river port town that prospered through the cultivation of indigo, known as "Japan blue," and the distribution of indigo dye, "sukumo," throughout Japan.
From $104.93
Anabuki River BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour
This tour follows the path of Japan’s purest river, the Anabuki. In the summertime, many people head to the lower reaches of the river to camp, but this cycling course on the upper reaches avoids the crowds.
From $104.93
Lodging Plans with Gibier Cuisine / Tokushima, Shikoku
Relish the slow life in this mountain village, where each of the seasons offers something new to enjoy. As a hunter, Mr.
From $188.88
Half-Day Kayaking Trip in Iya Valley for Beginners
Enjoy kayaking at Oboke Gorge, a deep canyon crafted by the torrents of the Yoshino River that crosses the Shikoku Mountains.
From $104.93
What activities can I do in Tokushima Prefecture?
1. Visit the Naruto Whirlpools: Located in the Naruto Strait, these powerful whirlpools are a natural phenomenon caused by the tides. You can take a sightseeing boat to get up close and witness the whirlpools in action. 2. Explore Ritsurin Garden: This beautiful traditional Japanese garden in Takamatsu is one of the most famous in Japan. It features meticulously landscaped gardens, ponds, teahouses, and walking paths. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. 3. Attend the Awa Odori Festival: Held annually in August, the Awa Odori Festival is one of Japan's largest dance festivals. Thousands of dancers and musicians take to the streets of Tokushima City, performing traditional Awa Odori dances. Join in the festivities and experience the lively atmosphere. 4. Visit Oboke and Koboke Gorges: These stunning gorges, located in the Iya Valley, offer breathtaking views of rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Take a boat ride or go hiking along the trails to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area. 5. Explore the Iya Vine Bridge: Known as one of Japan's three most unusual bridges, the Iya Vine Bridge is a suspension bridge made of vines. Walk across this unique bridge and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and Iya River. 6. Try the local cuisine: Tokushima is known for its delicious food, including Tokushima ramen, a unique style of ramen with a soy-based broth. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like soba noodles, sudachi citrus, and Awaodori chicken. 7. Visit Otsuka Museum of Art: Located in Naruto City, this museum is the largest ceramic art museum in the world. It houses over 1,000 replicas of famous Western paintings, including works by Leonardo da Vinci and Vincent van Gogh. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts. 8. Explore the Naruto Strait: Besides the whirlpools, the Naruto Strait offers other attractions like the Naruto Bridge, which connects Tokushima and Awaji Island. Take a boat tour or enjoy a scenic drive along the coast to appreciate the beauty of this area. 9. Take a pilgrimage to the 88 Temples of Shikoku: Tokushima is part of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a famous Buddhist pilgrimage route that covers 88 temples. Even if you're not a religious pilgrim, visiting some of these temples can provide a unique cultural experience. 10. Experience indigo dyeing: Tokushima is famous for its indigo dyeing tradition. Visit a local indigo dyeing studio or workshop to learn about the dyeing process and try your hand at creating your own indigo-dyed fabric or clothing. These are just a few of the many things to do in Tokushima Prefecture. Whether you're interested in nature, culture, or food, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful region of Japan.
When is the best time to travel to Tokushima Prefecture?
The best time to travel to Tokushima Prefecture, Japan is during the spring and autumn seasons. In spring (March to May), the weather is mild and pleasant, with cherry blossoms blooming across the region. One of the most popular events during this time is the Awa Odori Festival, held in August. It is one of Japan's largest dance festivals, attracting thousands of performers and spectators from all over the country. In autumn (September to November), the temperatures are also mild, and the autumn foliage creates a stunning landscape. The Tokushima Prefecture is known for its beautiful mountains and hiking trails, making it a perfect destination for outdoor activities during this season. However, it is important to note that the summer months (June to August) can be hot and humid in Tokushima, with occasional typhoons. Winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy, especially in the mountainous areas. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid these seasons if you are not comfortable with extreme weather conditions.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Tokushima Prefecture
Tokushima Prefecture, located on the island of Shikoku in Japan, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions. Here are some key aspects of the travel culture in Tokushima: 1. Awa Odori Festival: The Awa Odori Festival is one of the most famous and lively dance festivals in Japan. Held annually in August, the festival attracts thousands of participants and spectators from all over the country. Traditional dancers, dressed in distinctive costumes, parade through the streets of Tokushima City, performing the energetic Awa Odori dance. 2. Traditional Folk Arts: Tokushima is renowned for its traditional folk arts and crafts. Indigo dyeing, known as ""Aizome,"" is a popular craft in the region. Visitors can explore workshops and studios to learn about the dyeing process and even try their hand at creating their own indigo-dyed items. 3. Bunraku Puppet Theater: Tokushima is home to one of Japan's most famous puppet theaters, Awaji Puppet Theater. Bunraku, a traditional form of puppetry, involves intricate puppet manipulation accompanied by live music and storytelling. Visitors can watch performances and gain insights into this ancient art form. 4. Shikoku Pilgrimage: Shikoku Island is famous for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a 1,200-kilometer long route that connects 88 Buddhist temples. Many pilgrims embark on this spiritual journey, which takes them through Tokushima and other prefectures on the island. Visitors can explore the pilgrimage trail, visit temples, and experience the serene atmosphere of the sacred sites. 5. Local Cuisine: Tokushima is known for its delicious local cuisine. Some popular dishes include ""Naruto Ramen,"" a type of ramen with a unique soy-based broth, and ""Dancing Squid Sashimi,"" where the squid appears to dance when soy sauce is poured over it. Visitors can savor these local delicacies and explore the vibrant food scene in Tokushima. 6. Natural Beauty: Tokushima is blessed with stunning natural landscapes. The prefecture is home to the famous Naruto Whirlpools, created by tidal currents in the Naruto Strait. Visitors can take boat tours to witness this natural phenomenon up close. Additionally, Tokushima boasts beautiful mountains, rivers, and hiking trails, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Overall, Tokushima Prefecture offers a blend of traditional culture, vibrant festivals, and natural beauty, providing a unique and enriching travel experience for visitors.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Tokushima Prefecture
When visiting Tokushima Prefecture in Japan, there are several unique shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider purchasing. Here are some popular options: 1. Awa Indigo Products: Tokushima is famous for its traditional Awa indigo dyeing technique. You can find a wide range of indigo-dyed products such as clothing, accessories, and home decor items. 2. Naruto Whirlpool Souvenirs: Tokushima is home to the Naruto Whirlpools, natural phenomenon created by tidal currents in the Naruto Strait. You can find various souvenirs related to the whirlpools, including keychains, magnets, and postcards. 3. Sudachi Products: Sudachi is a small, green citrus fruit that is native to Tokushima. You can find a variety of products made from sudachi, such as sudachi-flavored snacks, jams, and sauces. 4. Traditional Crafts: Tokushima is known for its traditional crafts, including Awa Washi paper and Awa Ningyo dolls. These crafts make for unique and authentic souvenirs. 5. Local Sake: Tokushima has a rich sake brewing tradition, and you can find a wide variety of local sake brands to choose from. Consider purchasing a bottle or two to take back home. 6. Naruto Kintoki Sweet Potato Products: Naruto Kintoki is a type of sweet potato that is grown in Tokushima. You can find various sweet potato-based snacks and treats, such as chips, cakes, and ice cream. 7. Awa Odori Merchandise: Awa Odori is a traditional dance festival that takes place in Tokushima. You can find merchandise related to this festival, including t-shirts, masks, and accessories. 8. Handmade Bamboo Products: Tokushima is known for its bamboo craftsmanship. Look for handmade bamboo products such as baskets, utensils, and home decor items. 9. Local Food Products: Tokushima offers a variety of local food products that make for great souvenirs. Some popular options include Tokushima ramen, Tokushima beef, and Naruto sea salt. 10. Traditional Clothing: If you're interested in traditional Japanese clothing, you can find yukata (light cotton kimono) and other traditional garments in Tokushima. Remember to check the customs regulations of your home country regarding bringing back food items or alcohol before purchasing them as souvenirs.
Tokushima Prefecture travel review
Tokushima Prefecture: Discover the Hidden Gem of Japan Nestled in the eastern part of Shikoku Island, Tokushima Prefecture is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique attractions, this region offers a truly authentic Japanese experience. From the vibrant Awa Odori Festival to the tranquil beauty of the Naruto Whirlpools, Tokushima is a must-visit destination for any traveler. One of the most iconic events in Tokushima is the Awa Odori Festival, held annually in August. This traditional dance festival attracts thousands of performers and spectators from all over Japan. The streets come alive with the sound of taiko drums and the mesmerizing movements of dancers dressed in colorful yukatas. Join in the festivities and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you dance alongside the locals. It's an experience you won't soon forget. Nature lovers will be captivated by the breathtaking scenery that Tokushima has to offer. The Yoshino River, the second-longest river in Shikoku, cuts through the prefecture, creating a picturesque landscape of lush greenery and crystal-clear waters. Take a leisurely boat ride along the river and soak in the tranquility of the surrounding mountains. For a more adventurous experience, hike the famous Mount Tsurugi, known as the ""Roof of Shikoku,"" and be rewarded with panoramic views of the region. Another natural wonder that Tokushima boasts is the Naruto Whirlpools. Located in the Naruto Strait, these whirlpools are formed by the tidal currents rushing through the narrow channel. Hop on a sightseeing boat and witness the power of nature as you sail through the whirlpools. It's a sight that will leave you in awe of the forces of the ocean. For history enthusiasts, Tokushima offers a glimpse into Japan's past. The city of Tokushima is home to the Tokushima Castle Ruins, a historical site that dates back to the 16th century. Explore the remnants of the castle and learn about its significance in Japanese history. Additionally, the Oboke Gorge is a must-visit destination for those interested in traditional Japanese architecture. The gorge is lined with picturesque thatched-roof houses, known as ""kayabuki,"" which provide a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of the past. No trip to Tokushima would be complete without trying the local delicacies. Indulge in Tokushima's famous dish, ""udon,"" a thick wheat noodle served in a flavorful broth. The prefecture is known for its unique twist on this classic dish, with variations such as ""jakoten udon"" (udon topped with deep-fried fish cake) and ""sawachi udon"" (udon served with various toppings). Pair your meal with a glass of the locally brewed ""awamori"" sake for a truly authentic taste of Tokushima. In conclusion, Tokushima Prefecture offers a blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and culinary delights that make it a must-visit destination in Japan. Whether you're dancing at the Awa Odori Festival, exploring the stunning landscapes, or immersing yourself in the local history, Tokushima will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to this hidden gem of Japan.