Your Ultimate Guide to Tokushima: 10 Best Things to Do for a Memorable Visit!

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Contents

Introduction

On Shikoku Island’s eastern edge, Tokushima Prefecture connects to the rest of Japan through the majestic Akashi-Kaikyo and Naruto Bridges. Whether you're a food lover savoring local delicacies, a nature enthusiast exploring stunning vistas, a culture buff indulging in vibrant dance festivals, or a history aficionado appreciating timeless crafts, Tokushima has something spectacular for you—and that's just the beginning!

Discover 400 years of “Fool's Dance”

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Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping thrill at Tokushima's Awa Odori, the crown jewel of dance festivals across Japan during the Obon season in mid-August. 

"Awa" is the historic name for Tokushima Prefecture, and "Odori" means dance. From August 12 to 15, thousands flock to Tokushima to partake in the "Fool's Dance," a tradition that stretches back 400 years. 

Dubbed so because of a popular dance song lyric—"Fools dance and fools watch, if both are fools, you might as well dance"—this event is one of Japan's three major Bon Odori dances. With its vibrant performances and electric atmosphere, missing this during your city visit would be unthinkable!

Have you tried Tokushima Ramen? You should! 

This standout dish from Tokushima Prefecture first caught the public’s eye after being spotlighted at the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum in 1999. 

Known earlier as “Chinese Soba,” its rich shoyu-tonkotsu broth can vary in color from brown to yellow or white, depending on its base ingredients. 

With a uniquely satisfying blend of salty and sweet flavors, and topped with essentials like thinly sliced meat, bean sprouts, green onions, and a raw egg, Tokushima Ramen is a taste of heaven right here on earth!

Catch the breathtaking whirlpool phenomenon

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Don't miss the incredible opportunity to witness the Naruto whirlpools—a breathtaking phenomenon along the Shikoku coast of the Naruto Strait. 

These whirlpools form due to the massive volumes of water moving between the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean during the changing tides, enhanced by the strait's unique underwater geography. 

You can catch this awe-inspiring phenomenon roughly every six hours, with the most impressive displays in the morning and afternoon during the spring and autumn tides. Watch in amazement as whirlpools swirl up to 20-30 meters in diameter, making them some of the largest in the world!

Explore the ancient charm of Ryozenji Temple

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Ryozenji Temple, the starting point of the famed Shikoku Pilgrimage, is a gateway to a spiritual adventure that spans the entire island of Shikoku, covering all four prefectures. 

This journey, closely associated with Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, takes about two months on foot and often extends beyond Shikoku to Koyasan, the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism, where Kobo Daishi is said to be in eternal meditation. Ryozenji is strategically positioned closest to Koyasan, making it both the beginning and the concluding point for many pilgrims on Shikoku. 

Image source: Tourism SHIKOKU

Here, you can equip yourself with all the necessary pilgrimage gear, from traditional white robes to woven hats and walking sticks. The temple grounds themselves are a sight to behold, featuring a beautifully crafted wooden gate, a large carp pond, serene gardens, and a striking two-story pagoda. 

This serene and picturesque setting, enhanced by the sight of white-clad pilgrims, offers an ideal opportunity for both reflection and photography!

Indulge in Tokushima’s finest meats

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In Tokushima, the culinary scene is elevated by its exceptionally high-quality meats, making it a true foodie's paradise. The Awa beef from Tokushima's prized black cattle is a standout, consistently achieving Class A or B status and scoring above Grade 4 in quality assessments. This sumptuous beef is known for its rich marbling, which ensures every bite is tender and flavorful.

Not to be overlooked, the Awa chicken (oniwatori) is distinctive for its reddish streaks and a unique combination of low fat and high umami, offering a rich and satisfying taste that lingers. The ground chicken from Tokushima is particularly coveted across Japan, known for its quality and flavor.

Whether it's beef, chicken, or even pork, indulging in Tokushima’s local meats is essential for a truly drool-worthy culinary experience during your stay.

Treat yourself to Tokushima’s iconic sweets! 

Image source: East Tokushima

Hallelujah Sweets Kitchen is a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth—a must-visit during your stay in Tokushima. Since 1937, the beloved "Kincho Manju" has become a signature treat, symbolizing Tokushima's confectionery heritage and remaining a favorite souvenir choice throughout the region.

The Hallelujah Sweets Kitchen doesn't just excel in traditional wagashi, which they've perfected since their inception—they also offer a tempting array of patisserie classics. From lusciously filled cream puffs to velvety egg tarts, rich mont blancs, and creamy puddings, there's something to satisfy every craving. 

Their flagship store's Blue Note Café serves up comforting brown sugar manju, chewy dango, and soft daifuku, all paired wonderfully with various cakes and freshly brewed coffee.

In the souvenir section, you'll find the famous kincho manju, a creation of Hallelujah Sweets themselves. Named after a local Awa legend involving a raccoon dog (tanuki), these treats feature a chocolate dough and a sweet white bean filling, available in various flavors. The manju boxes, adorned with a tanuki, are instantly recognizable.

Image source: East Tokushima

Also available for purchase are regional specialties like Naruto kintoki sweet potato pastries, rare cheese desserts, and karinto—a crunchy snack made with local Tokushima ingredients.

Be sure to try the original tanuki cakes at Hallelujah Sweets Kitchen, adorably shaped into various raccoon dog figures to form a cute family ensemble. Each cake is topped with whipped cream, coated with tempered chocolate and nuts (for the ears), and filled with a light buttery cream that beautifully balances the rich, crisp chocolate exterior—yum!

Escape to the fascinating Iya Valley

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The Iya Valley, nestled in the rugged terrain of western Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku Island, offers a breathtaking escape into Japan's wild heart. This secluded valley is defined by its steep mountain slopes and deep, rocky gorges, once traversed by traditional vine bridges. 

Today, three of these historic structures—including the Iya Kazurabashi and the Oku-Iya Kazurabashi bridges—continue to draw visitors with their rustic charm and engineering marvel.

Rich in history, the Iya Valley served as a sanctuary for the Taira Clan, who fled here following their defeat in the Gempei War during the late Heian Period. The legacy of these ancient warriors lingers in the valley, with their descendants still residing in this secluded part of Japan and other remote areas like Shirakawago, Yunishigawa, and the Noto Peninsula. 

Over the centuries, Iya Valley has morphed into a beloved tourist destination, celebrated for maintaining a piece of ancient Japan within its lush landscapes, complete with must-visit hot springs.

Visitors to the valley can indulge in a variety of experiences, from soothing hot springs to a range of outdoor activities that capitalize on its natural beauty. So, put on your comfy shoes, grab your camera, and come soak in the timeless beauty of the Iya Valley!

Discover The Ōtsuka Museum of Art

OTSUKA MUSEUM OF ART 2022PR MOVIE（English）

Get the most out of your stay by exploring The Ōtsuka Museum of Art. 

Founded in 1998 by Otsuka Pharmaceutical, this museum boasts one of Japan's largest exhibition spaces. What's cool is that they have over 1,000 full-size ceramic replicas of iconic artworks. 

The Ōtsuka Museum of Art offers a three-dimensional display that brings ancient frescoes and church environments to life, offering an unparalleled sense of reality. Wander through a world of art including the Cappella Sistina fresco, Monna Lisa, Sunflower, and Western masterpieces like Guernica—there's so much to discover!

The museum spans about 4 kilometers, so wear comfy shoes and get ready for an art adventure that’s both immersive and enlightening!

Experience the magic of Indigo dyeing

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Tokushima offers an amazing firsthand experience of Aizome—the ancient practice of indigo dyeing. Aizome uses natural dyes made from indigo, one of the oldest plant dyes known. The resulting indigo-dyed clothing is both beautiful and functional; it’s cool in summer, warm in winter, and boasts antibacterial properties.

Indigo plants are annuals, with seeds typically sown each spring. In most of Japan, this happens from early March to mid-April. The process of managing the dye solution is an art in itself, requiring careful adjustment of temperature, humidity, and other climatic factors.

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During your visit to Tokushima, you can immerse yourself in this traditional craft at several facilities dedicated to teaching the techniques of indigo dyeing. One notable place is the Ai-no-Yakata, a museum housed in the beautifully refurbished residence of a former indigo trader. 

Here, you can participate in a hands-on dyeing workshop where you’ll use rubber bands to tie off sections of a handkerchief, then dip it into the indigo dye to achieve the shade you desire. This engaging experience takes about 20 minutes, and you get to keep your personalized creation as a unique souvenir of your visit!

Explore the city’s finest crafts

TSUKI-JIRI WOOD PLATE M oak-Ridged-Indigo Dyed from Mori Kougei

If you're on the hunt for unique and high-quality finds, Tokushima should be at the top of your list. This area is renowned for its traditional crafts and unique products, each crafted with meticulous care and exceptional quality.

OG Japan Co.'s Koubou Take has been crafting quality paulownia products since 1954, ranging from specialized Awa Odori bamboo doll cases to elegant drawers and Buddhist altars, each leveraging the wood's natural properties for airtightness and humidity control. 

On the culinary front, Shiki-no-aji has perfected the art of chawan-mushi ingredients over three decades, offering unique products like Awa Naruto Sea Bream Miso, Awa Naruto Sea Bream Ponzu, and Awa grilled conger eel with ponzu sauce, all sourced from top-quality local ingredients.

If you're a collector of history and craftsmanship, Ikawa Choukoku offers an exceptional array of wooden kabuto decorations and other items. Their skilled artisans hand-carve each piece without machines, allowing the natural beauty of the wood to deepen and become more lustrous as time passes. 

The company’s wood-carved helmets and samurai armor are especially noteworthy, showcasing the wood’s natural warmth in a way that makes enthusiasts fall head over heels!

Should you visit Tokushima?

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The short answer is, yes, you should! If you're into breathtaking nature, vibrant festivals, and truly unique culinary experiences, Tokushima is a must-visit. From the adrenaline-pumping Awa Odori festival to the stunning whirlpools of Naruto, there’s something about this place that just captures your heart. Plus, the local ramen? Totally worth the trip alone!

The Iya Valley is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with its ancient vine bridges and lush landscapes. Then there's the spiritual journey starting at Ryozenji Temple, offering a profound experience that could be a highlight of your travels.

And let’s not forget about the unique local craftsmanship and the heavenly sweets at Hallelujah Sweets Kitchen—absolutely to die for! 

So, should you pack your bags for Tokushima? Heck yes! Imagine soaking in the beauty of the Naruto whirlpools or dancing your heart out at the Awa Odori festival. It's a place where every moment feels a bit magical and the food is as memorable as the landscapes—expect zero regrets and endless fun!

Shop exclusive Tokushima products online! 

CUBE AWA-AI (Aging) ~Healing aroma interior~ from Koubou Take

Over 3,000 local retailers across Japan are excited to offer their 5+ million unique items through the online marketplace ZenPlus, providing you with the complete Japanese shopping experience from the comfort of your home. 

Simply type in the name of any Japanese item you can dream of, browse and pick your favorites, and place your order. The ZenPlus team will promptly package your purchase and deliver it straight to your doorstep (everyone will think you've just returned from a shopping spree in Japan!)