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Awa City

Itano Town, located in northeastern Tokushima Prefecture, is a town where pilgrimage culture lives deeply, concentrating Temples 3 (Konsenji) to 5 (Jizoji) of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Walking through town, you can touch the sight of pilgrims in white robes and the heart of "Osettai" hospitality from locals. It also features rich historical sights like "Fujiidera Temple" with one of Shikoku's largest wisteria trellises and the "Fukuroi Canal" conveying Edo-period water management technology. Idyllic rural landscapes feature specialty strawberry and carrot fields, allowing for seasonal tastes. It's a town perfect for soul-soothing strolls, comfortably harmonizing city proximity with quiet...

Tokushima
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Hashikurasan Ropeway

Hashikurasan Ropeway

The "Hashikurasan Ropeway" in Miyoshi City is an aerial line of about 1 km from the foot to the historic Hashikuraji Temple, known as the "Inner Sanctuary of Konpira-san." During the 4-minute journey, you can overlook the relaxed flow of the Yoshino River, the unique terrain of Miyoshi City created by the Median Tectonic Line's fault, and seasonal panoramas of the Shikoku Mountains. Especially the moment the view opens up as altitude increases, revealing Tokushima's mountain beauty, is moving. The gondolas are clean and spacious, serving as a luxurious prologue for mental preparation before heading to the historic pilgrimage site....

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
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Tairyuji Ropeway

Tairyuji Ropeway

The "Tairyuji Ropeway" in Anan City is a dynamic line boasting a length of 2,775 meters, the longest in western Japan. It connects the foot station to Tairyuji Temple, the 21st temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage located at approximately 600 meters altitude, in about 10 minutes. The highlight is the "aerial walk" crossing deep mountains and overlooking the Naka River. The thrill of passing support towers, sheer rock walls pressing in, and the spectacular view of the Kii Channel on clear days is spectacular. Especially the moment of viewing the Kobo Daishi statue sitting atop a cliff from the air...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
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Otsuka Museum of Art

Otsuka Museum of Art

The "Otsuka Museum of Art" in Naruto City is a unique museum boasting Japan's largest permanent exhibition area, reproducing approximately 1,000 Western masterpieces from over 190 museums in 26 countries on full-scale ceramic boards (tiles). Masterpieces like Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper," Gogh's "Sunflowers," and Michelangelo's "Sistine Chapel Ceiling" are reproduced with surprising precision on fadeless ceramic boards. The greatest feature is the "Environment Exhibit" only achievable via ceramic tiles, recreating entire spaces of masterpieces to provide an immersive feeling as if being on-site. Some works can even be touched, and photography is free. It's a "Palace of Masterpieces"...

Tokushima
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Tobinosu Valley

Tobinosu Valley

Tobinosu Valley in Ikeda-cho, Miyoshi City, is an undercover scenic spot located on a tributary of the Yoshino River. Over many years, the river's torrents carved the rocks, exposing giant rock surfaces featuring numerous "potholes" (ou-ketsu). The rugged sculptural beauty combined with surrounding deep forests and transparent water flow exudes the essence of a hidden region. Especially the silence, where only the sound of water sliding over rocks echoes, deeply settles the heart. It has a more private feel than the famous Oboke; for those wanting to spend time in nature as it is or those interested in geological beauty,...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
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Ahashi Unkai Observatory

Ahashi Unkai Observatory

Ahashi Unkai Observatory in Nishi-Iya Village, Miyoshi City, is a spectacular viewpoint known for encountering fantastical seas of clouds. Visiting in the early morning silence, the deep valley below is filled with white mist, and mountain peaks float like islands, appearing like a "castle in the sky." As the sun rises and the clouds shift, the emerald green Iya River revealing itself is a true natural artwork. From here, you can also overlook villages clinging to mountain slopes and the unique steep landscape of Iya, feeling the resilience of people living in harsh natural environments. It's a miraculous observatory where...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
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Kawani-ke Nagayamon Gate

Kawani-ke Nagayamon Gate

Kawani-ke Nagayamon in Mima City is a historic structure conveying the prestige of an indigo merchant mansion that built a fortune through the cultivation and manufacturing of Tokushima's specialty, "indigo." This gate, estimated to have been built in the late Edo period, features a very large-scale and heavy structure, symbolizing how the indigo industry brought prosperity to this region. The white walls, tiles, and sturdy wooden gate exude a style concentrating traditional Japanese architectural beauty. With good access from the "Udatsu Townscape," visiting them together allows for a deeper understanding of the former wealthy merchants' authority and aesthetic sense. The...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
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Biwa-no-Taki Falls

Biwa-no-Taki Falls

Biwa-no-Taki (Biwa Waterfall), located just a short walk from the "Iya Kazurabashi Bridge," is an elegant 25-meter waterfall. Its name originates from a poignant legend that Heike refugees who fled here after losing the Genpei War played the biwa (lute) by the waterfall to console each other while reminiscing about their hometown. The intense water spray and the cooling sensation around the plunge pool are ideal for healing travel fatigue. The contrast between the surrounding greenery and the white water sliding over rock surfaces is beautiful, making it a popular photo spot. After the thrill of crossing the Kazurabashi, viewing...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
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Kita Family Samurai Residence

Kita Family Samurai Residence

Bukeyashiki Kitake (Kita Family Samurai Residence) in Higashi-Iya, Miyoshi City, is the largest samurai residence in the hidden region of Iya. Built in the late Edo period, this residence features heavy thatched roofs and stone walls symbolizing the authority of the village headman who once ruled here and is designated as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property. Inside, the spacious hall with an Irori hearth, carefully polished black-glowing floors, and preserved daily tools allow you to feel the prestigious lifestyle of people who lived alongside harsh nature. Its appearance harmonized with surrounding steep mountains is truly "Japanese beauty" itself. It's...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
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Hashikuraji Temple (Bekkaku)

Hashikuraji Temple (Bekkaku)

Hashikuraji Temple, collecting faith since ancient times as the "Inner Sanctuary of Konpira-san," is the 15th temple of the Shikoku Bekkaku 20 Pilgrimage, located at about 600 meters altitude. Its name comes from a legend that Kobo Daishi received a revelation from "Konpira Daigongen" and was granted chopsticks (hashi). Reachable from the foot via the "Hashikurasan Ropeway," you can climb while enjoying the panorama of the Yoshino River and Miyoshi City. The grounds, with heavy wooden structures designated as Important Cultural Properties, are truly a celestial sacred site. Especially the main hall with exquisite carvings and the quiet forest showing...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
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Handaiwa Rock

Handaiwa in Miyoshi City is a scenic area of giant and unusual rocks located on a tributary of the Yoshino River. Over long years, the river flow carved the hard rocks, resulting in a series of unique sculptures where you can enjoy natural beauty up close. The water flowing between the rocks is incredibly clear, and it is cherished by locals as a hidden water play spot in summer. The contrast between deep surrounding forests, rugged rocks, and clear streams evokes the charm of traditional Japanese landscape paintings. Not overly commercialized, it allows for a quiet time and the luxury...

Tokushima
Nature
Spring
Summer
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Winter

Minenokubo Panorama Observatory

Minenokubo Panorama Observatory

The "Minenokubo Panorama Observatory," located at the top of a settlement with steep tea plantations in the mountains of Miyoshi City, is a spectacular spot overlooking the Yoshino River and the villages spreading across the opposite mountains. Early morning is highly recommended; when conditions align, a sea of white clouds fills the valley below, creating a "castle in the sky" scene where mountain peaks float like islands. It is a famous takeoff point for hang gliders, with certified openness and breadth of view. Feeling the idyllic mountain air with the scent of tea while experiencing the extraordinary sensation of clouds...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
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Ikedako Mizugiwa Park

Ikedako Mizugiwa Park

Ikedako Mizugiwa Park, on the shores of the Ikeda Dam Lake created by damming the Yoshino River, is an open park with beautiful waterscapes and green lawns. The surrounding mountains reflect on the calm lake surface, ideal for strolling or picnicking in the idyllic scenery. Water sports like wakeboarding and banana boating are actively conducted here, making it a lively area where quiet landscapes and active play coexist. Its international recognition is rising, having hosted the "Wakeboard World Championships." At dusk, the lake surface shines golden, creating a very romantic atmosphere. It's a perfect place to stop during a drive...

Tokushima
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Nature
Spring
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Ochiai Pass

Ochiai Pass, connecting Miyoshi City and Tsurugi Town, is one of the highest passes in Tokushima Prefecture at approximately 1,520 meters. With few tall trees obstructing the view, the summit area offers a 360-degree panorama of the ruggedly beautiful Tsurugi mountain range. It is considered a mecca among enthusiasts for exhilarating drives or cycling that feel like traveling above the clouds. Seasonal expressions in fresh summer green, autumn foliage, and winter snow are all dramatic. The silence of the remote highlands and the non-daily feeling of clouds passing right before your eyes are unique. It's a spot where you can...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
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Oku-Iya Niju Kazurabashi Campsite

Oku-Iya Niju Kazurabashi Campsite

Located right next to the "Oku-Iya Niju Kazurabashi Bridges," this campsite is a special place fittingly called the "bed within the hidden region." Situated in a forest where the murmuring of the clear Iya River is constantly heard, the night sky is filled with an overwhelming number of stars unattainable in cities. Right beside the campsite are the historic "Kazurabashi" and the manual "Yaen" ropeway, making the stay itself an adventure. Drinking coffee brewed in the morning mist and clear air is an exceptional experience. Here lies the true essence of outdoor life—enjoying inconveniences. It's highly recommended for those wanting...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
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Mitsugonji Temple

Mitsugonji Temple

Mitsugonji Temple, located on a hill in Ikeda-cho, Miyoshi City, is a historic ancient temple enveloped in silence with a fantastic view overlooking northern Tokushima Prefecture. Known as a temple associated with the Miyoshi clan, powerful local lords who once ruled the area, the grounds are dotted with buildings and stone monuments conveying the weight of history. In autumn, magnificent ginkgo and maple trees color the grounds, further enhancing the historical atmosphere. It is also an excellent point to overlook Mt. Kotsu, known as "Awa Fuji," allowing visitors to touch Japanese spiritual culture alongside fresh mountain air. This is a...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
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Ryugugake Park

Ryugugake Park in Higashi-Iya, Miyoshi City, features the symbolic 70-meter high "Ryugu Bridge" suspension bridge over the deep Iya River gorge. The view from this bridge is a mysterious, spectacular scene fitting the name "Ryugu" (Dragon Palace), overwhelming visitors with a panorama of sheer cliffs and emerald green streams. Its greatest charm is allowing a quiet enjoyment of the hidden region's atmosphere without the crowds of the main Kazurabashi. The park is equipped with campsites and cottages, providing a luxurious time gazing at star-filled skies at night and valley mists in the morning. Strolling through the grounds while admiring natural...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Nagoro Kakashi Village

Nagoro Kakashi Village

Nagoro Kakashi Village in Higashi-Iya, Miyoshi City, is a mysterious and warm settlement where over 300 "kakashi" (scarecrows) outnumber the human population. A woman started making scarecrows to chase birds from her fields, but now they are placed everywhere—working in fields, waiting at bus stops, or children in classrooms—recreating the village's former vitality. These expressive and realistic figures were featured by international media as a "miracle of the village in the sky." This landscape, which gracefully and artistically sublimates the reality of depopulation, provides deep emotion and a sense of the quiet life force of provincial Japan to all who...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
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Spring
Summer
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Oboke Station

Oboke Station on the JR Dosan Line is an atmospheric station loved by many travelers as the gateway to the hidden region of Iya. From the platform, you can view the beautiful Yoshino River flowing just below, making even the wait for a train a special sightseeing experience. Around the station building, a stone statue of "Konaki-jiji," based on local yokai legends, humorously welcomes visitors. It is also a stop for the sightseeing train "Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari," featuring heart-warming interactions with locals known for their hospitality. The moment you step off the train, pure air and the deep presence...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
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Koboke Observatory

Koboke Observatory

Koboke Observatory is a prime viewing spot offering a safe, bird's-eye view of the rugged "Koboke" gorge carved by the Yoshino River's torrents. From here, you can overlook a dynamic panorama of the V-shaped sheer cliffs and the powerful Yoshino River flowing between them. Compared to Oboke, the flow is faster and the rock surfaces are more jagged, truly showcasing the Earth's pulse. If lucky, you might see rafting boats navigating the rapids, looking as small as beans. The seasonal colors are also beautiful, especially in autumn when the foliage fills the valley. A short stop here during a drive...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
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Winter

Akago-buchi Pool

Akago-buchi Pool

Akago-buchi, located in a deep mountainous area of Miyoshi City on a tributary of the Dozan River, is a mysterious pool with beautiful, transparent emerald green water. Its name originates from a legend that an infant's (akago) cry was once heard here, and alongside surrounding sheer rock walls and deep forests, it exudes a somewhat mysterious atmosphere. Because it's not developed on a large scale for tourism, the charm lies in feeling untouched natural beauty as it is. Especially in summer, it's the ultimate summer resort for those seeking cool air and clear streams. Listening to the water flowing over...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
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Winter

Kurozo Wetland

Kurozo Wetland in Miyoshi City is a rare high-mooor wetland spreading on a mountain at about 550 meters altitude, a mysterious place fittingly called the "Wetland in the Sky." Within the vast 27-hectare grounds, many rare wetland plants and insects live; particularly the tens of thousands of "Sagiso" (fringed orchids) blooming in summer fascinate visitors with their appearance like white birds dancing. In the silence surrounded by deep mountains, walking the boardwalk to observe the waterside ecosystem is a calm, "Zen"-like moment away from city hustle. The seasonal shifting wetland landscapes are also beloved by painters and photographers. A soul-cleansing...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
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Shiozuka Plateau

Shiozuka Plateau

Shiozuka Plateau, spreading around 800 meters altitude across Miyoshi City and Ehime's Shikoku-Chuo City, is a heavenly paradise with vast, unobstructed silver grass fields. Below, the Yoshino River and Shikoku mountains stretch out, providing exceptional openness. In spring, fresh green sprouts from "prescribed burning," in summer, cool plateau breezes blow through, and in autumn, you encounter fantastical scenes covered in golden silver grass. The sight of silver grass shining in the setting sun is particularly breathtaking. The grounds also feature campsites, bungalows, and paraglider takeoff points, ideal for active holidays. It's a luxurious panoramic spot to reset yourself while feeling...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Oboke & Koboke Gorges

Oboke & Koboke Gorges

Oboke and Koboke Gorges, carved from crystalline schist over hundreds of millions of years by the Yoshino River's torrents, are dynamic scenic spots representing Tokushima. V-shaped steep cliffs continue for several kilometers; the upstream Oboke can be viewed up close via "sightseeing cruise," while the downstream Koboke attracts adventurers as one of the "world's best rafting spots." The contrast between the emerald green water surface and rugged yet beautiful rock surfaces is a spectacular view feeling the Earth's pulse. Seasonal colors decorate the valley, pressing in with overwhelming scale whenever you visit. It's a premier field where you can run...

Tokushima
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
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