Things To Do
in Tokushima
Tokushima is a prefecture on Shikoku Island renowned for its rugged mountains, lush rivers, and a lively coastal culture. It is famous for the Awa Odori festival, which fills the streets with dance and music each summer. The Yoshino River offers acclaimed outdoor adventures, while the Iya Valley provides dramatic rural scenery and historic vine bridges.
Visitors enjoy fresh seafood, citrus flavors from sudachi, and a welcoming, laid-back regional vibe that centers on nature and tradition.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Tokushima Castle, where you can stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and learn about the history of the region. After exploring the castle, head to the nearby Awa Odori Kaikan to watch a traditional Awa Odori dance performance. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly made onigiri and green tea.
In the afternoon, visit the Tokushima Prefectural Museum to gain insight into the art and culture of Shikoku. Take a leisurely walk along the Yoshinogawa River, where you can appreciate the scenic views and perhaps catch sight of local wildlife. Stop by a nearby market to sample regional delicacies such as naruto fish cakes and fresh fruits.
As the sun sets, find a cozy izakaya to enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner, featuring fresh seafood and local sake. After dining, take a stroll through the vibrant streets of Tokushima, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and shop for unique souvenirs. End your evening by witnessing the illuminated Tokushima Castle, providing a picturesque backdrop to your day.
Begin your morning with a visit to the Awa Odori Dance Hall, where you can learn about the origins of this famous dance and even try your hand at it. Next, explore the streets adorned with colorful decorations in anticipation of the upcoming Awa Odori Festival. Enjoy a local breakfast featuring Awa beef and seasonal vegetables.
In the afternoon, participate in a workshop to learn the traditional dance steps of Awa Odori from local experts, immersing yourself in the culture. Afterward, stroll through the lively streets filled with performers practicing for the festival, and enjoy street food along the way. Visit the nearby Tokushima Museum of Modern Art to appreciate contemporary Japanese art.
As night falls, gather at the festival grounds to witness the spectacular Awa Odori dance performances under the stars. Join the crowds, and don a yukata to fully immerse yourself in the festive spirit while dancing along with the locals. Savor delicious festival snacks such as yakitori and sweet taiyaki as the rhythmic music fills the air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚆Single-ride local transit | $2-3 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $80-130 |
| 🎟️Attraction entry (average) | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant festival culture (Awa Odori) and lively riverfront atmosphere
- Outstanding nature nearby: Iya Valley, Yoshino River, and Naruto Strait
- Delicious regional cuisine featuring Awa beef and sudachi citrus
- Easy day trips from Tokushima City to rural and coastal sights
- Rural areas can be less accessible; some services may be limited outside the city
- Summer heat and humidity can be intense for outdoor activities
- Awa Odori crowds can be large during festival season
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I’m sorry
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please (when requesting something)
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Koko wa doko desu ka?" - Where is this place?
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Okanjō wa onegaishimasu" - Check, please
- "Sumimasen, toire wa doko desu ka?" - Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
- "Isogashii desu ka?" - Are you busy / May I ask you a quick question?
- "Itadakimasu" - I humbly receive (before meals)
- "Gochisōsama deshita" - Thank you for the meal (afterward)
Places to Visit in Tokushima
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic tidal whirlpools visible from viewing decks and bridges, best captured at dawn or dusk with water and rock contrasts.
Panoramic cityscape and harbor views from above, especially striking at sunset.
Reflections of lights along the river and bridge piers create a moody urban photography scene.
Ancient vine bridges set against lush valley scenery, perfect for early-morning or golden-hour shots.
Historic grounds with stone walls and seasonal foliage offering calm, atmospheric frames.
Food in Tokushima
Tokushima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty bowl with a savory soy or pork-based broth, often finished with a shower of green onions and a hint of garlic.
Must-Try!
High-quality wagyu from the prefecture, best enjoyed as yakiniku, teppanyaki, or thinly sliced hot dishes.
Buckwheat noodles from the Iya Valley region, typically served with rustic toppings and a light broth.
Desserts or sorbets flavored with sudachi, offering bright, refreshing citrus notes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lively lanes near the river with fresh seafood snacks, small plates, and casual eateries that showcase local flavors.
A market area tied to the festival culture, offering souvenirs and bite-sized local specialties for a quick taste.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bow slightly when greeting; remove shoes before entering homes or certain traditional spaces; keep noise to a minimum in public transport and quiet in temples and shrines.
Respect shrine etiquette: clean hands at the chozuya, bow before entering, and avoid using flash photography in sacred spaces.
Public trash bins are scarce; carry waste with you and sort recyclables where facilities exist.
Safety
Tipping in Tokushima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Japanese services; polite gratitude is appreciated without extra charges or tips.
Cash is widely used, and many shops and restaurants in the city accept major credit cards. Some rural or smaller venues may be cash-only; many businesses now accept IC cards or mobile payments in urban areas, but carry cash as a backup.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming sakura along riversides; great for temple trails and riverside walks.
Hot and humid with frequent festivals, notably the Awa Odori; opportunities for evening street photography and water-side activities.
Pleasant air and colorful foliage in valleys and highlands; ideal for hiking and scenic drives.
Cool but generally mild; occasional chilly mornings with clear skies; fewer crowds and good for temple visits and cozy cafés.
Tokushima at Night
Hiking in Tokushima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging high-altitude hike offering panoramic vistas and rugged terrain in central Tokushima.
Scenic valley routes with waterfalls, moss-covered rocks, and forested paths near the vine bridges.
Airports
How to reach Tokushima by plane.
Main regional airport serving Tokushima, with domestic flights and connections to Tokyo and Osaka; accessible by express bus and taxi from the city.
Nearby airport offering regional flights; useful for multi-day Shikoku itineraries and connecting to JR routes.
Ehime Prefecture airport within reach for broader Shikoku access; often used for longer trips including Matsuyama and nearby attractions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time locals and students; the region faces an aging population with active youth in urban centers.
Domestic travelers from across Japan and international visitors attracted to the Awa Odori festival, nature trips, and cultural heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular pastime across schools and communities; local games and regional leagues can be enjoyed in parks and stadiums.
Local clubs and school teams are active; city stadiums host matches and community events.
River-based activities like rafting and kayaking on the Yoshino River and coastal water sports along the Naruto coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tokushima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes rely on fish-based dashi and meat stocks. Look for tofu, vegetable tempura, and can-do veggie sides; ask for no dashi or broth when ordering.