Destinations

Tokushima

"Watching the Awa Odori dance was so much fun, we couldn't resist getting up and joining in the dancing! One of the group won the best dancing award and was given a certificate, which made a fantastic souvenir of a truly memorable experience"

Jarrod Stenhouse - Tour Leader/Travel Consultant

Tokushima is the capital of Tokushima Prefecture, one of the four prefectures on Shikoku Island, and the largest city on the island.
It is an attractive city, surrounded by 1,000 metre mountains on three sides and the Inland Sea on the fourth.

Famous for its local arts and culture,  August sees the city taken over by the Awa Odori festival with its distinctive dancing style.  Locals say that when Tokushima Castle was opened in the late 16th century, the daimyo (feudal lord) hosted a wild celebration.  The sake flowed freely and the locals began to drunkenly weave and stumble back and forth.
Music was played to accompany this strange dance and lyrics were invented to go with the tune.  Thus, the Awa Odori was invented.
Performances of this unique dance can be seen all year round, and you may find yourself joining in on the fun!
Tokushima is also a great place to see bunraku, Japanese puppetry, and to try your hand at indigo-dyeing.

Tokushima makes a great base for trips to the stunning Iya Valley to see the famous vine bridges.  You can also visit the giant Naruto whirlpools, just outside of town.
It is also the starting place for Shikoku’s 88 Temple Pilgrimage; you may see henro (pilgrims) in their distinctive white garb, large hats and walking sticks preparing for their long walk.
It can take up to 2 months on foot to reach the 88th temple, so feel free to offer them o-settai; a small gift of money or food to assist them on their pilgrimage. This will bring you luck as well.

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