Things To Do
in Anan
Anan, Japan sits along the Pacific coast of Shikoku in Tokushima Prefecture, where rugged cliffs meet quiet fishing communities. The town is known for its seafood industry, especially bonito products, and its scenic coastal drives and riverside parks. Visitors experience a slower pace, warm hospitality, and easy access to nature trails and traditional crafts.
Seasonal ocean views and fresh island air make Anan a rewarding destination for a short visit or a longer exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning at the bustling Anan Asaichi market exploring stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and handmade crafts. Engage with friendly vendors as they share the stories behind their seasonal specialties. Breathe in the lively atmosphere while sampling unique local snacks like sudachi citrus and yuzu sweets.
Stroll through the heart of Anan’s downtown district to discover hidden boutiques, traditional tea houses, and quaint specialty shops. Pause for lunch at a small soba noodle shop known for serving hand-cut noodles with freshly grated wasabi. Continue wandering cobbled alleys as you hunt for artisan pottery and indigo-dyed textiles.
Dine at a local izakaya by the riverbank, savoring grilled ayu river fish and seasonal vegetable dishes paired with local sake. Enjoy the gentle glow of lanterns reflecting on the water as you chat with fellow travelers and fishermen. End the evening with a leisurely walk along the river’s edge under a starlit sky.
Drive east to the dramatic Shishikui Coast, where rugged cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean in a breathtaking display of natural beauty. Wander along the cliff-top trails as waves crash against the rocky shore far below. Keep an eye out for rare coastal plants and seabirds carving through the salty wind.
Descend to hidden pebble beaches framed by towering rock formations to search for weather-polished stones and fossilized marine life. Relax on large driftwood logs and soak up the sun while listening to the rhythmic roar of the sea. Savor a beachside picnic featuring freshly caught shellfish and locally baked bread.
Return to a seaside restaurant to taste shishamo smoked over local pine wood, served with tangy sudachi dressing. Watch the sun sink below the horizon, painting the sky and water in shades of orange and purple. Conclude the day with a soothing seaside stroll beneath the rising moon.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $60-120 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and fresh seafood
- Quiet, authentic small-town atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Fewer big-city amenities and English-speaking staff in rural areas
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you
- "Doko desu ka?" - Where is ...?
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ikura desu ka?" - How much is it?
- "Kore o kudasai" - This, please
- "Toire wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Anan
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point along the clifftops offering sweeping views of the Pacific and rugged coastline.
A calm river bend where the sky colors reflect off the water, perfect for golden hour shots.
A sheltered wharf with weathered boats and soft evening light—great for long exposures.
A hillside shrine that overlooks the sea, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Food in Anan
Anan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lightly seared bonito served with garlic, onions, and ponzu sauce; a regional specialty best enjoyed at a harbor-side eatery.
Must-Try!
Rice bowls piled with seasonal sashimi and shellfish from the harbor; perfect for a quick, flavor-packed meal.
Smoked bonito flakes either crisped into chips or sprinkled over warm rice for a savory bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls near the pier offer grilled fish, fresh sashimi, and small plates you can eat on the go.
A cluster of casual eateries along the riverfront serving tempura, yakitori, and seasonal bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a small bow or nod; keep voices low in public spaces and on public transport.
Remove shoes where required, such as in traditional inns, temples, and some homes.
Stand in lines, wait your turn, and handle cash with both hands when giving or receiving money.
Dispose of trash properly in designated bins and avoid leaving waste on trails.
Safety
Tipping in Anan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; service charges are typically included, and exceptional service is rewarded with a thank-you in polite language rather than cash tips.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and small restaurants. Credit cards are common in larger establishments and at tourist facilities; mobile payments are growing but may be limited in rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring brings mild temperatures and cherry blossoms in town parks; perfect for walking tours and harbor photos.
Hot and humid with a chance of typhoons; pack light clothing, stay hydrated, and enjoy early-morning coastal walks.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies with dramatic sunsets; ideal for hiking and outdoor dining.
Cool but rarely freezing; quieter streets, local hot meals, and riverside views with misty mornings.
Anan at Night
Hiking in Anan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged coastal path with dramatic sea views and occasional sea spray, half-day hike.
Shaded forest trail that climbs gently for views over farmland and village.
Airports
How to reach Anan by plane.
Domestic and some international flights; well-connected by train and bus to Anan for onward travel.
Regional flights with onward rail connections; roughly 2-3 hours by public transport to Anan.
Regional hub with frequent services to major cities; travel time to Anan by rail or bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Aging population with a strong local identity and long-standing fishing industries.
Domestic travelers exploring Shikoku’s coast and nature, plus a small number of foreign visitors seeking seafood culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at schools and municipal facilities; local leagues and weekend games are common.
Coastal fishing and boat charters are popular for both locals and visitors.
Youth and community baseball are common, with games in parks during season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Anan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find vegetable bowls, tofu dishes, and miso soup; communicate no fish stock or bonito products where possible, and look for plant-based specials at cafes and modern eateries.