Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Tokushima, Japan

The city of Tokushima serves as a significant gateway to the eastern region of Shikoku and features a local airport, making it an excellent entry or exit point when exploring the island. Visitors can also share their time here with immersive experiences of the local culture, art, and cuisine.

Renowned for its spacious streets and verdant suburbs, Tokushima offers opportunities for leisurely strolls in parks and visits to historical sites, including castles and museums. The city is also an integral part of the 88 Temple Pilgrimage, which is well-known across Shikoku, and it boasts a delightful culinary scene.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Tokushima…

1. Attend Awa Odori

Awa Odori is one of the principal festivals in Tokushima, occurring every August, and has been celebrated for over 400 years. This vibrant event attracts many visitors, featuring energetic parades and intricate dance performances that showcase various elaborate dance styles. It is important to note that the city experiences considerable crowds during this festival, given its popularity.

2. Explore the House of Indigo

The House of Indigo is a unique attraction in the city, situated in a historical residence that once belonged to an indigo merchant. Visitors can explore the home and participate in hands-on experiences to learn the traditional art of indigo dyeing, creating their own piece while discovering the historic patterns used in local textiles.

3. Visit Awa Odori Kaikan

Awa Odori Kaikan serves as a museum dedicated to the Awa Odori Festival, providing extensive exhibits that tell its history. Visitors can gain insights into this vibrant dance festival and enjoy occasional presentations featuring traditional dances associated with the festival, making it a worthwhile destination even if one cannot attend during the actual celebration.

4. Try the Local Food

During your visit to Tokushima, it is essential to sample the local cuisine, particularly the delectable varieties of fruit for which the region is noted. This includes sweet strawberries, which are locally cultivated, as well as sudachi, a fruit similar to lime. Other regional specialties to savor include narutokintoki, a type of sweet potato, and sugata sushi, which features small fish stuffed with rice, offering a unique culinary experience.

5. Visit Tokushima Modern Art Museum

For art enthusiasts, the Tokushima Modern Art Museum is an excellent destination that showcases contemporary works by both local and international artisans. With various galleries dedicated to modern artistic endeavors, this museum is frequently regarded as one of the premier small modern art museums in the area, providing a valuable insight into the local art scene.

6. Travel to Mount Bizan

If a day trip from Tokushima appeals to you, a visit to Mount Bizan, situated on the city’s outskirts, is highly recommended. This mountain is adorned with over 1,500 cherry trees, which bloom beautifully in spring. To reach the summit, one can utilize a ropeway that offers stunning vistas of the city below. Following your ascent, the descent can be accomplished on foot, providing a serene 20-minute hike through the picturesque surroundings.

7. Visit Tokushima Castle

Located adjacent to Chuo Park, Tokushima Castle combines a museum with expansive gardens. The castle museum offers valuable insights into its storied past, showcasing an array of antiquities and exhibits reflecting its history. The gardens, created in the 16th century, exhibit a typical Japanese aesthetic, providing a serene retreat with tranquil streams and delightful ponds.

8. Stock Up on Handicrafts

For those seeking a memento of their visit to Tokushima, the city’s selection of handicrafts is noteworthy. The region is renowned for its indigo-dyed textiles, where various shops offer garments and home decor featuring these intricate designs. Additionally, the famous otani-yaki pottery can be found in numerous establishments, alongside handmade paper products that highlight local craftsmanship.

9. Watch a Performance at Awa Jurobe Yashiki

Awa Jurobe Yashiki formerly served as the residence of the renowned samurai Jurobe. Currently transformed into a puppet theater known as bunraku, it also functions as a museum. Regular puppet performances are held here, offering an enjoyable experience for families with children, who will undoubtedly be captivated by the vibrant puppetry.

10. Have a Drink at Awa Shinmachigawa Brewery

Those interested in local brews should visit Awa Shinmachigawa Brewery, a well-known microbrewery. A diverse selection of ales, stouts, and bitters is available, providing an opportunity to learn about the brewing process while enjoying the beverages. They also offer food options and unique experiences like beer tastings and inventive beer cocktails.

11. Visit the Tokushima Prefectural Museum

The Tokushima Prefectural Museum is an excellent resource for those seeking to understand the region’s history and geology. It provides a chronological journey through the development of Tokushima, complemented by various interactive exhibits that appeal to younger audiences. Notably, it is situated adjacent to the Tokushima Modern Art Museum, allowing for a combined visit.

12. Tour Awa Deko Ningyo Kaikan

Awa Deko Ningyo Kaikan is a quaint museum that showcases vibrant and creative puppets crafted by one of the leading puppeteers from the Awa Jurobe Yashiki Puppet Theater. Visitors can gain insights into the construction and utilization of these puppets. However, it is advisable to note that the puppet master’s presentations are conducted in Japanese, though the visual appeal of these elaborate handmade creations makes the visit worthwhile even for non-Japanese speakers.

13. Visit the 88 Temple Pilgrimage

The 88 Temple Pilgrimage in Shikoku comprises a series of eighty-eight temples scattered across the island, serving as significant sites for pilgrims. Several temples can be accessed on day trips from Tokushima, including Jorakuji, Kokubunji, Kan’oji, and Idoji, as well as Ryozenji, the official starting point of the pilgrimage.

14. Enjoy the Nightlife

While Tokushima may not be renowned for its vibrant nightlife, it possesses various notable establishments. A popular venue is Ingrid’s International, managed by a Filipino expatriate and famed for its delightful beverages and karaoke nights, perfect for those wishing to engage in this local Japanese pastime. This venue also features themed evenings and live music throughout the week.

15. Try the ‘Self Udon’

The ‘Self Udon’ experience is a unique self-service concept in Tokushima, allowing patrons to select their udon noodles served either hot or cold. Diners can personalize their meals by choosing toppings and broth options. One of the most popular venues for this culinary experience is Self Udon Yama, making it a must-try while exploring the local cuisine.