Tokushima City | A Springtime Stroll Through a Hidden Gem

Tokushima City, a small city located in the northeastern part of the Shikoku region of Japan, is like a hidden gem, exuding a unique charm. With four distinct seasons and an average annual temperature of around 16°C, it's a great place to visit, even in winter. Follow this guide and embark on a romantic spring journey to Tokushima City! ✈️ Must-See Attractions • Awa Odori Kaikan: As a cultural landmark of Tokushima City, the Awa Odori Kaikan is the perfect place to learn about Awa Odori dance culture. Originating about 400 years ago, Awa Odori is one of Japan's three major Bon Odori dances. Here, you can not only enjoy wonderful Awa Odori performances but also join in, dancing alongside the enthusiastic dancers and experiencing the lively and cheerful atmosphere 💃 Even if you miss the Awa Odori Festival, held annually from August 12th to 15th, you can still experience the unique charm of Awa Odori at the Kaikan year-round. • Tokushima Castle Ruins: Although Tokushima Castle has undergone years of weathering, its remaining stone walls, moats, and gates still convey its former majesty and solemnity. Stroll through the ruins park, admiring the blooming cherry blossoms. The pink petals against the ancient architecture create a scene that feels like stepping back in time. The Tokushima Castle Museum within the park displays many historical relics and materials related to Tokushima Castle, providing a deeper understanding of the city's historical changes 📜 • Mount Bizan: Mount Bizan is the symbol of Tokushima City. From the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom all over the mountain, and the petals flutter like snow in the breeze. A cable car 🚠 is available for easy access to the summit. From the observation deck, you can overlook the entire Tokushima city area, appreciating the beautiful integration of city and nature. Whether it's the bustling daytime scene or the brilliant lights at night, the view is captivating. Tokushima Cuisine • Tokushima Ramen: Tokushima ramen is a local specialty. Compared to ramen in other regions, Tokushima ramen has a richer and thicker broth, typically made with pork bones and soy sauce, and a hint of seafood flavor. The noodles are firm and chewy, topped with tender and juicy chashu pork, crisp bean sprouts, and a soft-boiled egg 🥚 Every bite is unforgettable. Recommended restaurant: Chuka Soba Inotani (main branch). This restaurant is a well-known, long-established Tokushima ramen shop, serving only ramen and white rice, yet it's beloved by locals and tourists alike, often with long queues during lunch and weekends. • Awaodori Chicken: This is Tokushima's famous brand of chicken, known for its tender and delicious meat. The most classic way to enjoy it is bone-in, grilled. The bone-in chicken is seasoned with a secret homemade sauce and carefully grilled in a 400-degree kiln 🔥 The grilled chicken has a crispy golden skin and juicy interior. The secret sauce, a blend of 17 spices and seasonings, creates a unique and irresistible flavor. The bone-in Awaodori chicken at Ikkou Tokushima Station Front Store is highly recommended. The freshly baked chicken is impressive in size, much larger than a typical chicken leg, and each bite is pure bliss. • Seafood Dishes: With Tokushima City close to the sea, seafood is naturally a staple on the dining table. From fresh and plump sashimi to fragrant grilled seafood and delicious seafood bowls, there's something to satisfy every seafood lover 🦀 Tokushima City Central Wholesale Market is a great place to enjoy seafood. Here, you can not only witness the lively seafood auction but also purchase fresh seafood and have it prepared at a nearby restaurant, allowing you to savor the bounty of the sea immediately. Travel Tips • Transportation: From Osaka and other surrounding cities, you can reach Tokushima City by highway bus or train. Within Tokushima City, public transportation mainly consists of buses and trams, but services may not be frequent, so it's recommended to check the timetable in advance 🚌 Alternatively, consider renting a car for more flexible exploration of the surrounding area. • Accommodation: There are many hotels and guesthouses near Tokushima Station, offering convenient access to transportation and shopping. If you want to experience onsen (hot springs), you can also choose to stay at an onsen resort, such as Shirako or Yamanouchi, where you can relax and unwind in the soothing hot springs 🛀 • Other: Remember to plan your itinerary in advance, check the weather forecast, and pack appropriate clothing and sunscreen. When enjoying the local cuisine, be mindful of local dining etiquette and savor your culinary journey in Tokushima. Tokushima City, this charming and less-traveled destination, offers a unique travel experience, from its natural scenery to its culinary culture. Come to Tokushima City and start your romantic spring journey 💕