Dig deeper into the unknown charms and history of Tokushima Prefecture! From hidden gems to culture all revealed at once
Unraveling the charms of Tokushima Prefecture – from beautiful nature to historical landmarks
Introduction: What is Tokushima Prefecture?
I’m Kasumi, a web writer who travels all over the country. I have traveled to all 47 prefectures in Japan, but this time I would like to focus on Tokushima Prefecture, which left a special impression on me. Tokushima Prefecture, located in the Shikoku region of Japan, is home to great nature, history, and a unique local culture. Let’s dig deeper into the charms of Tokushima Prefecture that many people don’t know about and rediscover the value of this beautiful region.
Attractive spot surrounded by nature
Speaking of Tokushima Prefecture, it is famous for the Naruto whirlpools. This natural phenomenon is rare in the world and attracts a lot of attention from tourists. I actually went to see the whirlpools, and their dynamic appearance was overwhelming. Additionally, Oboke Koboke is known for its beautiful scenery of cliffs and clear streams, and offers many activities such as hiking and riverside picnics.
Visit historical sites
Tokushima Prefecture is also an attractive region for history buffs. In particular, the Tokushima Castle Ruins is one of the must-see spots, where the stone walls, moat, and castle gates still exist. In addition, Tokushima Prefecture was developed by the famous warlord Hachisuka Iemasa during the Sengoku period. Its influence remains strongly in the local culture and famous places even today.
local culture and traditions
Speaking of Tokushima Prefecture, Awa Odori is famous. This Awa Odori dance is considered to be one of Japan’s three major Bon dances, and is a major event that attracts tourists from all over the country every August. I have participated once and was impressed by the energy and enthusiasm of the local people.
Delicious local gourmet food
Tokushima Prefecture also has many delicious local foods. In particular, Tokushima Prefecture boasts the highest production volume of Sudachi in Japan. The food and drinks made with this sudachi are well worth a visit.
Average number of tourists and their results
The number of tourists in Tokushima Prefecture is increasing year by year, with approximately 6 million people visiting in 2019. As a result, the local economy has been revitalized, and new tourist spots and events are being held one after another. In particular, the whirlpools in Naruto have become a major tourist destination, with an average of about 1 million people visiting each year.
Hidden spots in Tokushima Prefecture and services provided by local companies
Enjoy Tokushima other than sightseeing
Tokushima has not only tourist attractions, but also many hidden spots that locals enjoy on a daily basis. For example, “Bizan” in Tokushima City is a spot loved by locals. The night view from Mt. Bizan is said to be very beautiful, and when I visited there once, I was mesmerized by its beauty.
Collaboration with local companies
Tokushima Prefecture is also a place where local businesses are thriving. For example, products made using locally produced vegetables and fruits that Tokushima Bunri University was involved in developing are supported not only by tourists but also by local residents. Additionally, major telecommunications company NTT Docomo has collaborated with local communities to create an app that provides tourist information for Tokushima Prefecture.
relaxation and health
In addition to sightseeing, Tokushima is also dotted with wonderful hot springs. In particular, “Naruto Onsen” is a hot spring that has a reputation for being gentle on the skin, and when I visited there, I felt the benefits for myself. In this way, Tokushima Prefecture is a multifaceted region that can be enjoyed not only for sightseeing but also for relaxation and health.
Local products and shopping
Don’t miss the local products produced in Tokushima Prefecture. In particular, “Awa Washi” is famous around the world and is used in many artworks and traditional crafts due to its quality and beauty. You can purchase these local products at the local shopping facility, Awa Odori Hiroba.
Evaluation as a tourist destination and future prospects
Tokushima Prefecture is also gaining recognition as a tourist destination. In particular, Naruto Whirlpools and Oboke Koboke are highly rated on TripAdvisor, and the number of tourists visiting is increasing due to word of mouth. In the future, new services and events are planned in collaboration with local businesses, and the area is sure to become an increasingly popular tourist destination.
Interact with local people and discover even more unknown charms of Tokushima
Heartwarming interactions with local people
When traveling through Tokushima Prefecture, what left a particular impression on me was the interaction with the local people. For example, when I participated in the Awa Odori dance, a local grandmother taught me some dance tips. Their kindness and warmth symbolize the great character of the people of Tokushima.
Cooperation with local communities
Tokushima has many communities that love their area. For example, there are active movements in which tourists and locals work together to revitalize the area, such as the Awa Town Development Association, which holds events that utilize local agricultural products.
Collaboration with non-profit organizations
In Tokushima, non-profit organizations are also working to enhance the attractiveness of the area. For example, “Tokushima Environmental Design” aims to preserve the natural environment and develop the local community sustainably. I also participated in this organization’s event and was reminded once again of the wonders of Tokushima’s nature and culture.
Introduction in local media
Local newspapers and television frequently feature tourism and local activities in Tokushima. This has expanded its appeal not only to locals but also to tourists from all over the country. In particular, “Tokushima Shimbun” and “JRT Shikoku Broadcasting” actively disseminate local information.
Future prospects and challenges
Many new projects have begun in Tokushima Prefecture with an eye toward sustainable development of the region. For example, new products are being developed using locally produced Sudachi, and facilities are being improved to make Uzushio tourism even more attractive. Through these efforts, Tokushima will continue to grow as an attractive tourist destination and a region loved by locals.
summary
Tokushima Prefecture is a deep and multifaceted region that is more than just a tourist destination. The exquisite combination of many elements, including not only nature but also people, culture, and local communities, provides spiritual enrichment to all who visit this area.
I hope that this article will help many people learn about Tokushima’s unknown charms and history, and encourage even more people to visit this beautiful region.
Please visit Tokushima once and experience its wonders for yourself. I’m sure you will become a fan of Tokushima too. looking forward to!
Historical buildings selected by Kasumi
Tokushima Prefecture is rich in not only a beautiful natural environment but also historical buildings. This time, I would like to introduce five historical buildings that I feel have particularly high hazing points.
1.Tokushima Castle (Tokushima City)
Kasumi points:
This castle was built by Iemasa Hachisuka during the Sengoku period. It has been maintained as a castle park, and its appeal is that you can enjoy the seasonal flowers. A perfect combination of history and nature.
2. Mt. Iya (Miyoshi City)
Kasumi points:
Iya Kazura Bridge, located on Mt. Iya, is the largest vine bridge in Japan and has been closely connected to the lives of local people since ancient times. You can feel the history and culture of this area, and also enjoy its beautiful natural environment.
3.Naruto Park (Naruto City)
Kasumi points:
The Otsuka Museum of Art, located in Naruto Park, is Japan’s first themed art museum that reproduces masterpieces of Western art in plaster. Here you can have a unique experience where history and modern art intertwine.
4. Awa Country Craft Museum (Yoshinogawa City)
Kasumi points:
This museum exhibits traditional crafts and folk crafts from the Awa region. Visitors can understand the historical background as well as local crafts, and feel the depth of Awa culture.
5. Kamiyama Onsen Town (Mima City)
Kasumi points:
Kamiyama Onsen Town retains many of its historic buildings. In particular, the wooden buildings built from the Meiji period to the early Showa period give you a sense of history and elegance.
Each of these historical buildings has different “kasumi points”, but what they have in common is that they are places where you can deeply feel the culture and history of the area. Please come and experience its charm for yourself.
