Spots List

Iya Valley

The Iya Valley, formed by the Iya River carving through the Shikoku Mountains, is one of Japan's premier scenic spots with V-shaped steep cliffs continuing for dozens of kilometers. Dynamic photo spots like the "Hi-no-ji Valley," which looks like the letter "ひ" from above, and the "Peeing Boy" statue standing on a 200-meter high rock are scattered throughout. The contrast between the emerald green water, deep green surroundings, and autumn foliage that colors the entire valley is a mysterious beauty fitting for a hidden region. Some areas are narrow and steep, but that allows you to experience the power of...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kamiyama Town

Kamikama Town, located west of Tokushima City, is Japan's most creative "Miraculous Countryside" where artists and IT entrepreneurs gather amidst rich nature. Through the "Kamiyama Artist-in-Residence" program, artists from around the world stay here, creating a unique landscape dotted with artworks along forests and rivers. Many stylish spots like offices and cafes renovated from traditional old houses coexist with cutting-edge work styles and rural life. In spring, the town is filled with thousands of weeping cherry blossoms, appearing like a paradise. With delicious spring water and local ingredient-based cuisine, it attracts worldwide attention as a successful example of regional revitalization...

Tokushima
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Mt. Tsurugi

Mt. Tsurugi, standing at 1,955 meters, is the second highest peak in Shikoku. While historically a mountain of faith, it is a "heavenly paradise" relatively easy for beginners to climb. Using the mountaineering lift, you can reach near the summit from the mountainside in about 15 minutes and walk along the gentle ridge path. The summit offers a 360-degree unobstructed panorama, overlooking the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean on clear days. Legend also says King Solomon's treasure is hidden here, adding a mysterious charm. Rare alpine plants bloom from May to October, allowing you to feel Japan's seasonal...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Iya Onsen

Iya Onsen, located in the Iya Valley—one of Japan’s three most hidden regions—is world-famous for its secluded inn perched on a precipice. The main attraction is the open-air bath at the bottom of the valley, reached by a private cable car descending about 170 meters. Soaking in the free-flowing hot spring water while listening to the murmuring of the emerald green Iya River is the ultimate luxury. In autumn, the valley is filled with gold and red foliage, enveloping you in breathtaking views. With no convenience stores or traffic lights, only birdsong and the river's sound are heard. It provides...

Tokushima
Accommodation
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kamikatsu Town

Kamikatsu Town, located in a mountainous area, is an environmentally advanced town gaining worldwide attention for its "Zero Waste" initiative. The "Zero Waste Center WHY" features astonishing architectural beauty made from recycled materials, attracting eco-conscious travelers. It is also famous for the "Irodori" business, where elderly residents vibrantly work shipping seasonal leaves used to garnish dishes. At high altitudes, the "Kashihara Terraced Rice Fields," selected among Japan's top 100, offer spectacular views like a village in the sky. It is a town that strongly stimulates intellectual curiosity, where sustainable living wisdom coexists with ruggedly beautiful Satoyama landscapes.

Tokushima
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Minami Town

Minami Town, located in southern Tokushima, is a healing town where beautiful seas and deep faith coexist. It features "Ohama Beach," world-famous as a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, serving as a symbol of nature conservation. It has also flourished as the temple town for "Yakuoji," the 23rd temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, with a constant stream of worshippers seeking to ward off evil. The old townscape around Hiwasa Port and "Sea Turtle Marine Cruises" touring dynamic cliffs by fishing boat offer charms unique to a seaside town. In recent years, it has gained attention for attracting IT satellite...

Tokushima
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Yamashiro-cho, Miyoshi City

Yamashiro-cho, Miyoshi City

Yamashiro-cho in Miyoshi City is a unique region world-famous as the "Village of Yokai Legends," surrounded by steep mountains and deep valleys. Over 150 types of yokai legends remain here, and it's considered the home of "Konaki-jiji," who appears in Shigeru Mizuki's manga. Walking the streets, handmade stone and wooden yokai statues created by locals welcome you everywhere, providing fun as if wandering into another world. The rugged terrain is also famous as a high-quality tea producing area, and the deep flavor of "Awa Tea" nurtured in misty environments is also a charm. For travelers wanting to touch the imagination...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Miyoshi City

Miyoshi City, at the western tip of Tokushima, is a city representing Shikoku for adventure and healing, housing the "Oboke and Koboke" gorges carved by the Yoshino River's torrents and "Iya," one of Japan's three most hidden regions. It is a world-famous mecca for rafting while simultaneously preserving historical and cultural heritage like "Kazurabashi" and "Ochiai Village." In recent years, branding as a "Yokai Town" and town-making utilizing old sake breweries have flourished, with spots stimulating intellectual curiosity. With observatories overlooking seas of clouds, quiet hot spring villages, and nutritious Iya Soba, you can enjoy mountain blessings with all five...

Tokushima
Area Info
Sightseeing
Food
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Awa Odori Kaikan

Awa Odori Kaikan

The "Awa Odori Kaikan" at the foot of Mt. Bizan in Tokushima City is a museum where you can experience the world-famous "Awa Odori" anytime year-round. The main attraction is the authentic dance performances held in the hall. Not only can you watch elegant and powerful dances by professional "Ren" (groups) up close, but there's also a section where spectators can get on stage to dance together, creating smiles and excitement regardless of nationality. There are also exhibits on history, costumes, and instruments, providing an understanding of the festival's 400-year depth. The 5th floor houses the Sanroku Station for the...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shinmachi River

Shinmachi River

The Shinmachi River flowing through the heart of Tokushima City is a relaxation spot for citizens and a beautiful river symbolizing the "City of Water," Tokushima. Wooden walkways called "Boardwalks" are maintained on both banks, lined with stylish cafes and shops, ideal for strolling or lunch. You can ride the "Hyotanjima Cruise," a sightseeing boat that circles the city area, enjoying an elegant time viewing bridges and townscapes from the water surface. At night, LED lights fantastically illuminate the water, transforming it into a very romantic atmosphere. Especially during the Awa Odori festival in August or events, stalls line the...

Tokushima
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Ryozenji Temple (No. 1)

Ryozenji Temple (No. 1)

Ryozenji Temple in Naruto City is the "1st Temple" of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, the commemorative spot where the magnificent 1,200 km journey begins. The sight of pilgrims in white robes with sedge hats and staff departing from here is a symbolic scene of Tokushima. The vast grounds feature a garden with beautiful ponds and a main hall where numerous lanterns glow fantastically, creating a fresh yet solemn air to celebrate the journey's start. The shop selling pilgrimage supplies is well-stocked, so even those not starting a full pilgrimage can feel the unique culture firsthand. It is the origin...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Konsenji Temple (No. 3)

Konsenji Temple (No. 3)

Konsenji Temple in Itano Town is the 3rd temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. The temple's name derives from a legend that when Kobo Daishi visited and struck the ground to save residents suffering from water shortages, golden water gushed out. That "Golden Well" still remains today, and there's a saying that if your shadow is clearly reflected in the bottom of the well, you will live a long life, so many worshippers peer inside. The grounds have a calm atmosphere, and beautifully arranged halls and lush greenery heal the hearts of pilgrims on their long journey. While walking...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Gokurakuji Temple (No. 2)

Gokurakuji Temple (No. 2)

Gokurakuji Temple in Naruto City is the 2nd temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. As its name suggests, a beautiful, meticulously maintained garden reminiscent of "Gokuraku Jodo" (Pure Land Paradise) welcomes worshippers. It is also famous for easy childbirth prayers, housing the "Anzan Daishi" statue. Especially noteworthy is the "Chonju-sugi" (Longevity Cedar), said to be over 1,200 years old. Legend says Kobo Daishi planted it, and you can feel a powerful life force from its giant trunk. Located just a short walk from the 1st temple, Ryozenji, it's a quiet and peaceful temple to stop by amidst the excitement...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Ai-no-Yakata (Indigo House)

Ai-no-Yakata (Indigo House)

Ai-no-Yakata (Indigo House) in Aizumi Town is a museum utilizing a vast former indigo merchant's mansion where you can learn the history and culture of Tokushima's traditional industry, "Awa Indigo." Tokushima was once known as Japan's largest indigo producer, and here, tools used for dyeing and the luxurious lifestyle of merchants are exhibited in detail. The main highlight is the "Indigo Dyeing Experience," where you can actually use natural indigo to dye items like handkerchiefs. Creating your own beautiful "JAPAN BLUE" under a craftsman's guidance is extremely popular among international travelers. Within the heavy historic architecture, you can feel the...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Awa Jurobe Mansion

Awa Jurobe Mansion

Awa Jurobe Mansion in Tokushima City is a valuable cultural facility where you can watch "Awa Ningyo Joruri" (puppet theater), a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, every day. This mansion was built on the site of Bando Jurobe's residence, who was the model for the famous Joruri story "Keisei Awa-no-Naruto." The delicate movements of a puppet operated by three skilled handlers feel as if it has a soul, conveying a power and sorrow that shakes the viewer's heart. With backstage explanations and experiences of actually touching the puppets, even beginners can enjoyably learn the depth of Japanese traditional arts....

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Yakuoji Temple

Yakuoji Temple in Minami Town is the 23rd temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage and is a famous "Temple for Warding Off Evil" (Yaku-yoke) attracting worshippers from across Japan. Legend says Kobo Daishi Kukai founded it to pray for protection against misfortune. A unique feature is the tradition of climbing stairs while placing one-yen coins on each step to drop one's misfortunes. From the grounds, you can overlook the Hiwasa townscape and the beautiful sea, with the red "Yugi-to" pagoda standing strikingly against the sky. The temple town features shops selling local specialties and hot springs, making it a...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Ohama Beach

Ohama Beach in Minami Town is a beautiful sandy beach forming a gentle arc of about 500 meters, designated as a National Natural Monument as one of the world's few nesting grounds for loggerhead sea turtles. Every year from May to August, a mysterious scene unfolds as turtles land from the night waves to lay eggs and connect lives. Consequently, there is very high awareness of environmental protection, and it has been carefully protected by locals. "Caretta" Sea Turtle Museum is located right by the beach, offering deep learning about turtles. Even outside nesting season, the scenery woven by white...

Tokushima
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Sea Turtle Marine Cruise

Sea Turtle Marine Cruise

This adventure experience tours Minami Town's beautiful coastline on a refurbished fishing boat. The main highlight is looking up at dynamic sea caves and cliffs carved by rough waves, such as Senjojiki and Ebisu-do, from close range. The thrill and emotion of the boat entering a giant rock hole provide a special feeling unattainable from land-based sightseeing. If lucky, you might encounter sea turtles popping their heads above water. The light-hearted guide from the boatman—who knows the area inside out—is also part of the fun. It is an exciting experiential tour representing southern Tokushima, allowing you to fully experience the...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Anmitsu-kan (Kawano Mericlone)

Anmitsu-kan (Kawano Mericlone)

Anmitsu-kan in Mima City is a flower exhibition and experience facility themed around Cymbidium orchids, a rarity worldwide. The sight of vibrant orchids, mainly unique varieties developed by Kawano Mericlone, blooming year-round is spectacular. The interior features a sophisticated design blending Japanese and Western styles, providing an elegant time enveloped in floral scents. Beyond viewing flowers, you can enjoy shopping for cosmetics and sweets using Cymbidium extract. The brilliant spatial presentation, like an "anmitsu" dessert utilizing the orchids' beauty, is popular among women and couples as a photogenic spot. Located near the traditional "Udatsu Townscape," it's a healing hub to...

Tokushima
Food
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Muroto-Anan Kaigan Quasi-National Park

Muroto-Anan Kaigan Quasi-National Park

The Muroto-Anan Kaigan Quasi-National Park features a magnificent coastline of about 100 km stretching from Anan City, Tokushima, to Cape Muroto, Kochi. Its greatest charm is the diverse ocean beauty, from dynamic rias coastlines and sea-sculpted unusual rocks to highly transparent seas with coral reefs. It serves as a field for various ocean activities, including Ohama Beach—a sea turtle nesting site—calm Mitoko Bay, and surfing meccas. Coastal areas also feature temples associated with Kobo Daishi Kukai, offering a sense of local culture where nature and faith are integrated. Serving as an excellent driving course, this vast area allows you to...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Oboke Sightseeing Cruise

Oboke Sightseeing Cruise

The Oboke Sightseeing Cruise is an activity where you leisurely tour the "Oboke Gorge," carved out by the Yoshino River's torrents over hundreds of millions of years, while listening to a boatman's guide. The biggest highlight is the crystalline schist rock walls designated as a National Natural Monument. You can admire the rugged yet beautiful rock surfaces that look like sculptures up close, and their power is overwhelming. The seasonal beauty of cherry blossoms in spring, fresh green in summer, autumn foliage, and snowy landscapes in winter reflects on the river surface, providing a different moving experience in every season....

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Heike Yashiki Folk Museum

Heike Yashiki Folk Museum

The "Heike Yashiki Folk Museum" in Nishi-Iya Village is a facility that conveys the legend of the Heike clan, who fled to this hidden region after losing the Genpei War. Utilizing the Edo-period Nishioka residence, a former local influential family, its atmospheric thatched roof and heavy gate impart a sense of history. The museum exhibits armor, swords, old documents belonging to the Heike clan, and daily tools that tell of the harsh mountain life of the time. In the garden stands a centuries-old pine tree, quietly watching over the tragic history of the refugees. In an environment surrounded by deep...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Ochiai Village

Ochiai Village in Higashi-Iya, Miyoshi City, is a rural landscape where traditional houses built from the mid-Edo to Meiji periods are scattered along a steep mountain slope. The maximum elevation difference reaches about 390 meters, and the wisdom and effort of ancestors who built stone walls to secure farmland and housing are designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. From the observation point on the opposite shore, you may see a fantastical sight of the village floating in a sea of clouds. In recent years, renovated old houses have become accommodations, allowing visitors to actually...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Hi-no-ji Valley

Hi-no-ji Valley

The "Hi-no-ji Valley" in Iya Gorge is a stunning spot named because the Iya River curves sharply around the mountain, resembling the Japanese character "ひ" (hi) from above. The artistic beauty of the deep cliffs and the shimmering emerald green river showcases the power of nature. During the autumn foliage season, the entire valley turns fiery shades of red and yellow, creating a breathtaking contrast with the blue of the river. An observation deck provides a safe view of this dynamic landscape, making it a popular photo spot symbolizing the hidden region of Iya. Surrounded by deep forests and rocky...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter