Introduction to Instagram-Worthy Photos of Tokushima Prefecture
Known as the starting point for the pilgrimage of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, Tokushima Prefecture boasts rich natural features such as the whirlpools of the Naruto Strait, Mount Tsurugi, and the Oboke and Koboke gorges. Additionally, every August, the Awa Odori, one of Japan’s three major Bon dances with a history of over 400 years, is held and enjoyed by many.
Tokushima Castle
Tokushima Castle is characterized by its mountain castle and gardens built on Shiroyama. Currently, the area has been developed as Tokushima Central Park, where the Tokushima Castle Museum exhibits the history and art of the Tokushima Domain and the Hachisuka family. Adjacent to this museum is the Old Tokushima Castle Omote-Goten Garden, where you can experience the atmosphere of the Edo period.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 3-minute walk from Tokushima Station
Mount Bizan
Mount Bizan, the symbol of Tokushima City, is a beautiful mountain mentioned in the ancient Japanese poetry collection “Manyoshu.” From the 5th floor of the Awa Odori Hall, you can take a ropeway that reaches the summit, about 290 meters high, in approximately 6 minutes. From the summit, you can get a panoramic view of Tokushima City, the Yoshino River, and the Kii Channel. The nighttime view during operations from April to the end of October is particularly spectacular.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 11-minute walk from Tokushima Station
Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage
The Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage involves visiting 88 Buddhist temples in the Shikoku region. These temples are associated with Kobo Daishi (Kukai) and are the most important pilgrimage sites in the Shikoku region. This pilgrimage, also known as the “Shikoku Henro,” starts in Tokushima Prefecture (Awa Province), continues through Kochi Prefecture (Tosa Province), Ehime Prefecture (Iyo Province), and Kagawa Prefecture (Sanuki Province), covering a distance of about 1450 kilometers. It is believed to dispel the 88 earthly desires of humans and is a spiritual journey for many people. It typically concludes with a visit to Mount Koya. In Tokushima Prefecture, the temples from Temple 1 (Ryozen-ji) to Temple 23 (Yakuo-ji) are designated as the “Place of Awakening.”
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 6-minute bus ride from Ikeda Station
Naruto
The strait between Oge Island in Naruto City and Awaji Island is famous for the whirlpools of Naruto. The Onaruto Bridge, which connects Awaji Island and Tokushima Prefecture, is about 1629 meters long. Beneath the bridge, there is a walkway called “Uzu no Michi” from which you can view the whirlpools from about 45 meters above. There is also a whirlpool viewing room where you can see the whirlpools up close through a glass floor without boarding a tour boat. As the whirlpools’ occurrence times vary by day, it is recommended to check the tidal schedule on the Uzu no Michi website in advance. Nearby, there is the Otsuka Museum of Art, which displays over 1000 famous Western art masterpieces.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 21-minute bus ride from Naruto Station
Oboke and Koboke
Oboke and Koboke are gorges extending about 8 kilometers, formed over 200 million years by the rapid flow of the Yoshino River cutting through the Shikoku Mountains. This area is characterized by beautiful marble-like rock formations and V-shaped valleys, with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful autumn leaves reflected on the river surface. In the Oboke area, you can enjoy activities such as rafting and river cruises.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 24-minute walk from Oboke Station
Mount Tsurugi
Mount Tsurugi, with an elevation of about 1955 meters, is the second-highest mountain in Western Japan. It offers hiking trails for beginners to advanced hikers, and a lift can take you halfway up the mountain. The path to the summit features beautiful primeval forests and alpine plants, offering natural beauty throughout the seasons. From the summit, there is a panoramic view of the mountains of Shikoku and the Seto Inland Sea. You can enjoy new greenery in spring, colorful plants in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snow scenery and frost in winter.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Infrequent public transportation car recommended
Awa Odori
The “Awa Odori” of Tokushima is one of Japan’s three major Bon dances, with a history of over 400 years. Held every August, the rhythmic music and dancers are a highlight. The “women’s dance” is particularly known for its elegance. Viewing at the performance venues in the city center is recommended. At the Awa Odori Hall, you can learn about the history and culture of the Awa Odori. Daytime dances are held four times a day, and nighttime dances are held once a day. The attached museum also displays historical instruments and materials.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: August
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 11-minute walk from Tokushima Station
Iya Kazurabashi
The Iya Kazurabashi in Miyoshi City, Tokushima Prefecture, is a suspension bridge located in the Iya Valley, surrounded by deep mountains. This ancient bridge, linked to the Heike clan legends, weighs about 6 tons and is made from a plant called shirakuchikazura. It is a popular spot for tourists due to its beautiful scenery as it crosses the lush valley.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Bus from Awa-Ikeda Station
