When is the Awa Odori festival?

The main events are held annually from August 12th to 15th in Tokushima City, with hundreds of dance groups performing day and night.

How do I see the Naruto whirlpools?

The best ways are from sightseeing boats departing from Naruto or by walking on the glass-bottomed Uzunomichi path on the Onaruto Bridge. Check tide tables, as they are only visible during tidal changes.

Is a car necessary in Tokushima?

While public transport works in the city, a rental car is highly recommended for exploring the scenic Iya Valley, coastline, and other rural attractions at your own pace.

What is Tokushima's famous food?

Must-tries include Tokushima Ramen (with a soy sauce or pork bone broth, often served with raw egg and pork), sudachi citrus fruit, and Naruto Kintoki sweet potatoes.

Are the Iya Valley vine bridges safe?

The main tourist vine bridges (Kazurabashi) are maintained and safe, though they sway and have gaps. They require a fee to cross. They are not recommended for those with a severe fear of heights.

Varies by nationality. Many countries have visa-free stays up to 90 days. Check with Japanese embassy.

What is the currency?

Japanese Yen (JPY). Cash is widely used; credit cards accepted in cities.

Is English widely spoken?

Limited, especially in rural areas. Learn basic Japanese phrases or use translation apps.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe throughout Japan.

What is the Awa Odori festival?

A famous dance festival held August 12-15 in Tokushima City, featuring traditional dance troupes.

How do I get to Tokushima?

By flight to Tokushima Airport, or by bus/ferry from other parts of Shikoku and Honshu.

Are there onsen (hot springs)?

Yes, many ryokan and public baths, especially in Iya Valley and around Naruto.

Comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, and a rain jacket. In summer, light clothing and sunscreen.

Is it safe for solo travelers?

Very safe. Solo travel is common and well-supported.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, but check roaming charges. Local SIM cards and pocket Wi-Fi are available.

What is the local cuisine?

Try sudachi citrus, tokushima ramen, and fresh seafood like sea bream.

Are there hiking trails?

Yes, especially in Iya Valley and Mount Tsurugi. Trails are well-marked.

Tokushima

PrefectureJapan, Asia

Tokushima is a STATE in Japan, Asia.

Nestled on the eastern coast of Shikoku Island, Tokushima Prefecture is a captivating blend of natural wonders, ancient traditions, and vibrant energy. It's globally renowned as the home of the Awa Odori, Japan's most famous traditional dance festival, which transforms the capital city into a mesmerizing spectacle of music and movement every August. Beyond the festival, Tokushima's dramatic landscapes beckon adventurers. The mighty Naruto Strait showcases the world's largest whirlpools, best viewed from the Onaruto Bridge's glass-bottomed walkway. The pristine Iya Valley, with its legendary vine bridges and deep gorges, offers breathtaking hiking and a glimpse into Japan's secluded past. The prefecture's Pacific coastline features stunning beaches like Ohama and Hiwasa, while the sacred Mount Bizan provides panoramic views. Foodies will delight in Tokushima's unique culinary scene, from succulent sudachi citrus and sweet Naruto Kintoki sweet potatoes to fresh seafood and the local specialty, Tokushima ramen. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Tokushima offers an authentic and unforgettable Japanese experience.

Best time to visit Tokushima

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November) are ideal for pleasant temperatures, blooming cherry blossoms (late March-early April), and vibrant autumn foliage, perfect for hiking and sightseeing. August (especially 12th-15th) is the peak for experiencing the world-famous Awa Odori festival, but expect extreme heat, humidity, and crowds. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid, good for beach activities but also the rainy season (June to mid-July). Winter (December-February) is mild on the coast but can be cold and snowy in the mountainous Iya Valley.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Drizzle
Temperature: 15°
Feels like: 16°
Humidity: 99%
Wind: 5 km/h
Precipitation: 0.2 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 15-25°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Autumn colors begin

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

TKS

Tokushima Airport

Domestic

10 km away

TAK

Takamatsu Airport

Domestic

75 km away

KCZ

Kochi Airport

Domestic

120 km away

KIX

Kansai International Airport

International

150 km away

Getting around

"The main transportation hub is Tokushima City. The JR Tokushima Line connects major cities. For exploring remote areas like the Iya Valley, renting a car is highly recommended. Local buses serve most towns and tourist sites, but schedules can be infrequent in rural areas. Taxis are available in cities but expensive. Popular navigation apps include Google Maps and Japan Travel by Navitime. Bicycles are a great way to explore Tokushima City and coastal areas. The Awa Odori Kaikan in the city is a key starting point for tourist information."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in cities and many rural accommodations

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

+81

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe overall. Scams are rare but be cautious in tourist spots.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe overall. Scams are rare but be cautious in tourist spots.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Tokushima is an exceptionally safe prefecture with very low crime rates. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Standard precautions against petty theft (e.g., securing valuables) are sufficient. The main safety concerns are natural: be cautious of strong currents and whirlpools when boating or swimming near the Naruto Strait. In the Iya Valley, the historic vine bridges and mountain trails require careful footing. During the Awa Odori festival, be mindful of large, dense crowds. There are no specific areas to avoid, though standard nighttime caution in less-populated areas applies. Scams targeting tourists are uncommon."

Police

110

Ambulance

119

Fire

119

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Tokushima has excellent medical facilities, including the advanced Tokushima University Hospital. No specific vaccinations are required for entry. Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Tap water is safe to drink. In rural areas like the Iya Valley, access to medical facilities can be limited, so carry any necessary medications. Be aware of ticks in forested and grassy areas, which can carry diseases. Japan has a national health insurance system for residents; travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. Pharmacies (\"yakkyoku\" or \"drugstore\") are widely available."

Culture

Local customs

"As in all of Japan, politeness and respect are paramount. Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional inns (ryokan), and some restaurants. Bowing is the standard greeting. Tipping is not practiced and can cause confusion. During the Awa Odori, spectators are often encouraged to join the dancing. When visiting temples and shrines, observe quiet reverence. Public baths (onsen) require washing thoroughly before entering the communal bath, and tattoos may be prohibited at some facilities. In the Iya Valley, respect the historical nature of the sites."

Japanese

Costs and practicals

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY) · ¥

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$8 | a cheap local meal costs around $8

Hotels

$50-100 | budget hotels range $50-100/night

Local transport

$2 | local bus ride ~$2

Cost notes

Costs are lower than Tokyo. Luxury ryokan can be $200+.

Timezone

Asia/Tokyo +09:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

728,000

Area

4,146.65 km²

Government

Prefectural government with a Governor and Prefectural Assembly

ISO code

JP-39

Type

Prefecture

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Tokushima Prefecture, Tokushima-ken, Préfecture de Tokushima, Tokuŝimo, 德岛县, Tokushima, 德島縣, Prefektura Tokushima, Prefeitura de Tokushima, Präfektur Tokushima, Tokushima prefektúra, Токусима, Prefectura de Tokushima, 도쿠시마현, Prefektur Tokushima, Tokuŝima, 徳島県, prefektura Tokušima, とくしまけん, Prefettura di Tokushima, Префектура Токушіма, JP-36, 360007, TKS, Tokushima - de dao shi, Tokushima-shi, Tokushimashi, Tokusima, Tokušima, de dao, de dao shi, dokusima si, tokushima, tokushimashi, とくしま, とくしまし, トクシマ, トクシマシ, 徳島, 徳島市, 도쿠시마 시

Capital CityMajor HubHistoric CityHikingNatureFestivalHot SpringsCultural