Events in Tokushima
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Tokushima Prefecture is a region full of natural beauty and traditional culture that will captivate you.
In Tokushima City, famous for the Awa Odori dance, the “Awa Odori” festival is held every summer, bringing the entire city to life with vibrant energy. You can enjoy the elegant and lively dances up close and immerse yourself in the exciting festival atmosphere alongside the dancers.
Additionally, “Naruto’s Whirlpools” is a spot where you can truly feel the power of nature. During the spring and autumn equinox tides, the whirlpools are said to be some of the largest in the world. You can experience the massive whirlpools up close by taking a sightseeing boat, offering a thrilling and spectacular view.
In the Oboke and Koboke areas, you can enjoy rafting and trekking in the picturesque gorges, making it a perfect destination for outdoor activities. Exciting experiences surrounded by nature await, ready to spark your adventurous spirit.
How about experiencing a special journey filled with both tradition and nature in Tokushima?
PickUp Tokushima Events
Awa Odori
The “Awa Odori” is one of Japan’s largest traditional dance festivals, held annually from August 12th to 15th in Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture. With over 400 years of history, it is famous for its unique chant, “Odoru aho ni miru aho” (The fool who dances and the fool who watches). The highlight of the festival is the “Sō Odori,” where dance groups, known as “ren,” perform to the rhythm of drums and shamisen, delivering powerful and exciting performances. Throughout the city of Tokushima, various stages and streets fill with dance, and the best part is that the audience is invited to join in! As a lively and energetic summer tradition, the Awa Odori attracts both domestic and international visitors.
🔍Image search for「阿波おどり」
A musical tour exploring Tokushima through songs.
Discover and Enjoy Tokushima! A Guide to Must-Visit Spots & Topics.
Awa Odori
The “Awa Odori” is a traditional Bon dance that represents Tokushima Prefecture, with a history spanning over 400 years. Held every year from August 12th to 15th in downtown Tokushima, it’s one of Japan’s largest dance festivals, attracting both dancers and spectators. There’s even a group called “Niwaka Ren” where anyone can join in and participate. Additionally, at the Awa Odori Hall in Tokushima City, visitors can enjoy live performances of the dance and learn about its history throughout the year.
Naruto Whirlpools
The Naruto Whirlpools are a world-famous natural phenomenon that occur in the Naruto Strait, which separates Tokushima Prefecture’s Naruto City from Awaji Island. Due to the difference in tide levels between the Seto Inland Sea and the Kii Channel, tidal flows can reach speeds of over 20 km/h, creating whirlpools that can be as large as 20-30 meters in diameter. You can get a close-up view of these incredible whirlpools from a sightseeing boat, or even gaze down from above on the “Uzu no Michi” pedestrian walkway on the Great Naruto Bridge. The whirlpools reach their peak size during the spring and autumn tides, offering an awe-inspiring sight.
Iya Kazura Bridge
The Kazurabashi Bridge in Iya is a 45-meter-long suspension bridge, located over the Iya River in Tokushima Prefecture. The bridge is about 14 meters above the water’s surface and is made by weaving Shira-Kuchikazura vines. It is replaced every three years. There’s a theory that the bridge was built by the Heike warriors who were fleeing from their pursuers, designed so they could cut it down if needed, but this is not confirmed. The thrilling views of the valley from the swaying bridge are truly something to experience.
Ryozenji Temple
Ryozenji Temple, located in Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture, is the first temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, one of the 88 sacred sites of Shikoku. This historic temple was founded by the Buddhist priest Gyoki. The temple grounds feature several buildings, including the main hall and the Tahoto pagoda, with the Enmusubi Kannon being particularly famous for its blessings in matters of love, work, and health.
When you pass through the Nio gate, you’ll come across the Hojyo Pond, where you can enjoy the sight of colorful koi swimming peacefully and a charming stone bridge that adds to the tranquil atmosphere. Ryozenji is not only the starting point of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, but also a popular spot for many pilgrims and tourists alike.
Otsuka Museum of Art
The Otsuka Museum of Art, located in Naruto City, is one of Japan’s largest museums dedicated to ceramic reproductions of famous paintings. It features over 1,000 renowned Western artworks from 26 different countries, all recreated at full size on ceramic plates. The museum’s exhibition route spans approximately 4 kilometers, allowing you to enjoy masterpieces from ancient times to the present all in one place.
Tokushima Castle Ruins
“Tokushima Castle Ruins” is located in Tokushima City. The castle was originally built by Hosokawa Yoriyuki and later reconstructed in 1585 by Hachisuka Iemasa. Today, the area is developed into Tokushima Central Park, where restored sites like the Eagle Gate, Sukiya Bridge, and the Tokushima Castle Museum give visitors a glimpse into its past. Additionally, the “Former Tokushima Castle Front Palace Garden” is designated as a scenic spot in Japan, offering beautiful views that change with the seasons.
Kaiyo Town & Kaifu River
Kaijo Town is a nature-rich area in the southern part of Tokushima Prefecture, with the Awa River being recognized as one of the 36 cleanest rivers in Japan. The Shishikui area is especially popular for surfing. Other attractions include Yakuyoji Temple, one of the 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, and the Blue Marine sightseeing boat.
Udatsu Townscape in Wakimachi, Mima City
In Wakimachi, in the city of Mima, you’ll find a historic area called “Udatsu no Machinami,” where the townscape from the Edo period to the early Showa era has been preserved. The term “udatsu” refers to a fireproof wall, which eventually became a symbol of wealth and status. This area has been designated as an Important Traditional Building Preservation District, and around 85 historical buildings are still maintained to this day.
Mount Bizan
Mount Bizan is a symbol of Tokushima City, standing at 290 meters high. It gets its name from its eyebrow-like shape. You can reach the summit by cable car or car, and from the observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. The night view is so breathtaking that it has been selected as one of the “100 Best Night Views in Japan” and one of the “100 Famous Views of the Moon in Japan.”
Yoshino River
The Yoshino River, known as the “Shikoku Saburo,” flows through Tokushima and Kochi Prefectures. The Daho-oka and Koboke areas are especially famous for their powerful rapids, making them a top destination for rafting. Along the river, you’ll find many hot springs and spots known for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, making it a great place to enjoy both nature and outdoor activities.
List of Inbound-Friendly Taxi Companies in Tokushima
Yoshinogawa Taxi
All vehicles are equipped with a multilingual interpretation system, supporting over 30 languages. Additionally, some drivers can communicate in English.
- Multilingual Support for the Official Website・・・×
- Dispatching Standard Taxis via the GO App・・・〇
Konpira Taxi
Konpira Taxi supports communication by using the multilingual translation device “Pocketalk.” Additionally, an English page is available on the company’s website.
- Multilingual Support for the Official Website・・・〇
- Dispatching Standard Taxis via the GO App・・・×
NTS Group (Tomita Taxi / Novil Taxi Service)
NTS Group (Tomita Taxi / Novil Taxi Service) offers chauffeur-driven car charter and rental services for inbound travelers. A dedicated webpage is available on their website, with support for English and Traditional Chinese.
- Multilingual Support for the Official Website・・・〇
- Dispatching Standard Taxis via the GO App・・・×
Daiichi Taxi Tokushima Area
As a group company of Daiichi Kotsu Sangyo Co., Ltd., Daiichi Taxi Tokushima Area offers a multilingual interpretation service. Taxi drivers can assist passengers in communicating through a dedicated interpretation center while inside the vehicle.
For more details, please visit:
[Multilingual Interpretation Service | Taxi | Top | Daiichi Kotsu Sangyo DAIICHI]
- Multilingual Support for the Official Website・・・×
- Dispatching Standard Taxis via the GO App・・・×
- This content introduces taxi companies based on inbound-friendly information available online. However, the availability and details of services may vary depending on when the information was released.
- The GO app’s dispatch service may not support special services such as sightseeing taxis. If you are planning to use a taxi for tourism purposes, please contact the respective taxi company in advance.
- This website does not handle taxi reservations or arrangements. For detailed service information and the latest availability, please contact each taxi company directly.