Tokushima

Tokushima city is globally renowned as the home of the Awa Odori, Japan's largest and most famous traditional dance festival. Every August, the city streets transform into a massive stage for thousands of dancers in straw hats and colorful yukatas, moving to the rhythmic pulse of drums and lutes. For those visiting at other times, the Awa Odori Kaikan museum provides daily performances and a chance to learn the dance moves yourself. The city is located at the foot of Mount Bizan, which can be reached via a ropeway for panoramic views of the city and the distant Kii Peninsula. Just a short trip from the city center lies the Naruto Strait, home to the spectacular Naruto Whirlpools. These natural wonders, caused by massive tidal movements, are best viewed from sightseeing boats or the glass-floored walkway under the Onaruto Bridge. Tokushima is also the traditional heart of Japan’s indigo dyeing industry (Aizome), where visitors can try their hand at creating deep blue textiles. Local food culture features Tokushima Ramen, a rich, savory bowl topped with pork belly and a raw egg, and the refreshing Sudachi citrus fruit used in many dishes. The peak time to visit is during the festival in mid-August, though spring and autumn offer milder weather for exploring. The city is conveniently connected to Honshu via the Akashi Kaikyo and Naruto bridges, making it an easy bus trip from Osaka or Kobe.

Nearby cities

Himeji

Himeji in Hyogo Prefecture is best known for its brilliant white Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Akashi

Akashi is a maritime city on the 135th meridian, known for its castle and views of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge.

Takasago

A historic city in Hyogo Prefecture, famous for its wedding-related shrine traditions and scenic seaside parks.

Ako

Ako is a historic coastal city in Hyogo Prefecture, famous for its salt production and the legend of the 47 Ronin.

Minamiawaji

The southernmost city on Awaji Island, famous for the Naruto whirlpools and world-class onions.

Harima

A historic coastal town in Hyogo Prefecture on the Seto Inland Sea, known for its archaeological sites and seaside resorts.

Taishi

A historical town with deep ties to Prince Shotoku and expansive, shallow sandy beaches.

Kami

A charming town in Hyogo, known for its dramatic rocky coast, clear diving spots, and premium Tajima beef.

Iya Valley

A remote, mountainous valley famous for its ancient vine bridges and rugged natural beauty.

Kinosaki Onsen

A charming hot spring town where guests stroll in yukata between seven public bathhouses.

Komatsushima

A port city known for its deep legends of Tanuki spirits and beautiful coastal parks.

Naruto

Famous for its massive tidal whirlpools and the impressive bridge connecting Shikoku to Honshu.

Anan

A charming coastal city in Tokushima Prefecture, known for its scenic bays and top-rated swimming beaches.

Minami

Minami is famous for its sea turtles, the significant Yakuouji Temple, and the picturesque Tainohama coastline.

Mugi

Mugi is a picturesque fishing town in Tokushima, famous for its coral reefs and the beautiful Osuna Coast.

History & landmarks

Kotohira

Home to the grand Konpira-san shrine complex, reached by climbing over a thousand stone steps.

Takeda Castle Ruins (Castle in the Sky)

Known as the 'Machu Picchu of Japan', these mountaintop ruins are famous for the 'sea of clouds' (unkai) that surrounds them on autumn mo…

More places

Port of Kobe

A major Japanese seaport in Hyōgo Prefecture.

Takeda Castle Ruins

Known as the 'Machu Picchu of Japan', these mountaintop ruins are famous for the 'sea of clouds' (unkai) phenomenon, which makes the cast…

Naoshima Art Island

A small island in the Seto Inland Sea known for its modern art museums, architecture, and outdoor sculptures.