Tokushima, Japan
Tokushima, Japan
Description
Born as a 16th century castle town whose remains now lay scattered near a park and museum, Tokushima is best known for its colorful summer dance festival, the Awa Odori. But it may be Mother Nature who garners the most attention. Surrounded by 3,280-foot-tall mountains that hint at the wonders that lie beyond, the city is the perfect gateway to the mesmerizing Naruto whirlpools, the panoramic views from atop Mt. Bizan, and the spectacular gorges and vine bridges of Iya Valley. Whether you're entranced with the ways of the warrior, or under the spell of the extraordinary attractions, Tokushima offers exciting new experiences and unforgettable new adventures.
Points of Interest
- Ryozen-ji Temple
- Mount Bizan
- Naruto Whirlpools
- Otsuka Museum of Art
- Tairyu-ji Temple
- Udatsu Town District
- Awa Jurobe Yashiki Residence Theater
- Byodo-ji Temple
More about Tokushima, Japan Points of Interest
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Ryozen-ji Temple -
Located in the town of Naruto, Ryozen-ji Temple is the first of 88 holy sites that follows in the footsteps of 9th century Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi. Traditionally, pilgrims begin and end their journey here.
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Mount Bizan -
Tokushima's beloved symbol sits near the center of the city. A popular spot for climbing, hiking and mountaineering, the observatory at the summit boasts beautiful 360-degree views of Tokushima, the bay and beyond.
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Naruto Whirlpools -
This natural phenomenon is created in the Naruto Straits by large flows of seawater furiously moving back and forth with the tides. An observation deck directly over the water offers fantastic views of these natural wonders.
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Otsuka Museum of Art -
Using state-of-the-art techniques, this unique museum features over 1,000 Western masterpieces such as Monet's "Water Lilies" and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel faithfully reproduced on ceramic boards in their original size and color.
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Tairyu-ji Temple -
Perched at the summit of the 6,413-foot-high Shikoku Mountain, Tairyu-ji Temple is #21 on the 745-mile-long Shikoku Pilgrimage Route and is one of the few locations on Shikoku where the monk actually visited.
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Udatsu Town District -
Named for a type of roof that symbolized a family's wealth, this well-preserved 300-year-old neighborhood is recognized by the government as an "Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings."
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Awa Jurobe Yashiki Residence Theater -
The former home of a 17th century samurai is now one of the last remaining puppet theaters in the country. Portions of the play detailing the tragic life of Awa Jurobe are performed here daily.
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Byodo-ji Temple -
Like many of the 88 temples that circle the island, 500-year-old Byodo-ji, #22 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage Route, is surrounded by myths and legends of miraculous healing powers and mysterious phenomenon.