Filter Tours
21 Available Tour Excursions in Tokushima Prefecture
This tour takes you along the Yoshino River to the historic town of Wakimachi. The meeting place is BROMPTON STATION, a 150-year-old renovated old house. It follows the road on the embankment where cars are prohibited, and you can experience the history and culture that developed around the Yoshino River. Mainakajima on the other side of the river from Wakimachi Udatsu Street was often flooded in the past, but at the same time it produced large amounts of indigo which contributed to the wealth of the area. Crossing a submersible bridge over the Yoshino River, you enter a street of prosperous merchant houses ornamented with udatsu. Here there are satellite offices and fashionable cafes that still retain the atmosphere of old days. You have a break from cycling at Wataru Coffee (drink included in the price). Emerging from the udatsu street, you encounter the Showa period Odeon Theatre.
Price: $127.14
Duration: 3-4 hours
In principle, reservations are for two persons or more. A course that runs through the castle town, centering on Mt. Take the ropeway from the Awa Odori Kaikan at the foot of Mt. Meishan, which has become a novel and a movie. From there, take a break downhill and take a break at Western Park on the middle of Mt. If you go down from the middle to the foot, you might want to try eating around, such as Mt. It is also interesting to compare the courses you ran to the old scenery at the museum of Tokushima Castle after running through the back alleys that leave the remnants of the castle town, Aiba beach where the performance hall is set up at the time of Teramachi and Awa Odori It will be.
Price: $141.27
Duration: 5 hours
Experience Japan’s Hidden Gems with a Private Taxi Tour! Explore the breathtaking Iya Valley and Oku-Iya region in comfort and efficiency with our private taxi service. Perfect for solo travelers and groups, we provide smooth access to remote attractions that public buses can’t reach. Our knowledgeable drivers use translation devices and multilingual brochures to share the history and culture of each destination. With a pre-set itinerary, you’ll visit all the must-see spots efficiently and without hassle. With clear pricing and reliable support, we ensure a stress-free and unforgettable journey. Discover Japan’s hidden treasures today—book now!
Price: $288.96
Duration: 4 hours
Few opportunities exist for foreigner visitors or even Japanese people to handle traditional puppets and learn about their structure and manipulation and see behind the scene views. Participants will have access to a range of traditional Japanese puppets with a guide who has more than 30 years experience performing in the puppet theater who can speak both English and Japanese and answer questions about the culture and history of the puppet theater.
Price: $75.00
Duration: 3 hours
Delve into the vibrant world of Awa Odori, Japan’s iconic dance, with this guided cultural experience in Tokushima. Explore the history and significance of Awa Odori beyond the summer festival as you visit the Awa Odori Museum, where you'll learn about the dance's evolution through engaging exhibits and live demonstrations of traditional instruments. Cap off your journey with a captivating performance at Awa Odori Hall, allowing you to witness the dance's energy and precision firsthand. This tour offers a rich understanding of Awa Odori as a living tradition, fostering a deeper connection to the local culture. - Discover the roots of Awa Odori through museum exhibits and live demos - Experience a live performance by skilled dancers and musicians - Choose your starting point: Awa Odori Kaikan or JR Tokushima Station - Gain insights into how Awa Odori influences everyday life in Tokushima
Price: $125.21
Duration: 2 hours
Enjoy kayaking at Oboke Gorge, a deep canyon crafted by the torrents of the Yoshino River that crosses the Shikoku Mountains. Designated as a national natural monument and a place of scenic beauty, Oboke attracts many rafting and kayaking enthusiasts during the summer season and is also known for the Oboke Pleasure Cruise, which has a history of more than 100 years. Riding a kayak down the river, paddling with your own strength or letting the current carry you along is an adventure in itself. The Yoshino River, which shines emerald green and reflects the colors of the seasons, is a vibrant natural treasure just waiting for you to enjoy. You'll be guided by an expert, who has experience winning kayaking competitions, and will give you a detailed lecture on how to hold, ride, and paddle the boat. Whether you are new to river kayaking or have experience, lessons are available for all levels, so please feel free to join us!
Price: $102.74
Duration: 3 hours
In principle, reservations are for two persons or more. This tour lets you experience the beauty of the hidden Iya Valley at first hand through the magic of the BROMPTON bicycle. After meeting in Awa-Ikeda, take the train to Oboke Station. While waiting for the bus at Oboke Station, check out the interesting shops. Then take a bus to the Iya Valley vine bridge. Near the vine bridge, you can see the beautiful Biwa Waterfall and go down to the Iya River. From there, ride on the old road along the valley beside the emerald green Iya River. The beauty and grandeur of the ever-changing valley makes you forget your everyday life. Points of interest include the Hi no Ji Bend, and the Peeing Boy standing on a 200 m-high precipice. The Iya Valley road runs gently downhill for most of the way, so no special physical prowess is required. The rest area has a fine view, perfect for Instagram. Enjoy the charm of the Iya Valley which can’t be experienced fully by car.
Price: $141.27
Duration: 7 hours
For a more efficient way to explore Iya Valley, take a private taxi on a one-day tour! To start your day, meet your driver at your hotel near Oboke Staion. Potential stops on a six-hour tour include the Manikin Peeing Boy Statue, with stunning views of the steep surrounding mountains and turquoise Iya River; Iya Kazurabashi vine bridge, Ochiai Village, a small hamlet in the heart of Iya Valley with farm houses from the mid-Edo era; and Oku-Iya Kazurabashi double vine bridges. Note*1: The driver for this tour has a limited level of English. Your driver will communicate with you using a translation app. Please decide your itinerary or send a list of your desired sites to see 1 week before the tour date and send it directly to Japan Guide Agency. Note*2: Tour details has a possibility of change due to seasonal influence, Mt. Tsurugi and Okuiyanijukazurabashi is closed during the winter season, December to March.
Price: $327.48
Duration: 6 hours
For a more efficient way to explore Iya Valley, take a private taxi on a 4-hour tour! To start your day, meet your driver at your hotel, or anywhere at your convenience. Potential stops on a four-hour tour include the Manikin Peeing Boy Statue, with stunning views of the steep surrounding mountains, turquoise Iya River and Iya Kazurabashi vine bridge. Note*1: The driver for this tour has a limited level of English. Your driver will communicate with you using a translation app. Please decide your itinerary or send a list of your desired sites to see 1 week before the tour date and send it directly to Japan Guide Agency. Note*2: Tour details has a possibility of change due to seasonal influence, Mt. Tsurugi and Okuiyanijukazurabashi is closed during the winter season, December to March. Note*3: Four hours is NOT enough to visit both of Iya-valley area and Oku-Iya Kazurabashi double vine bridges and Mt. Tsurugi. Please choose which you prioritize.
Price: $224.90
Duration: 4 hours
You can enjoy the peaceful countryside surrounding the beautiful Yoshino River. You can also visit the historical temples. Like Kyoto, there is no crowd and it is calm.
Price: $127.14
Duration: 4 hours
Experience the best of Naruto on this full-day tour combining art, scenery, and natural wonders. Begin at the Otsuka Museum of Art, where you’ll walk among stunning life-size ceramic reproductions of masterpieces from around the world. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the seaside AoAwo Resort, offering fresh flavors and ocean views. Continue to the Naruto Mountain Observatory for breathtaking vistas over the Naruto Strait, then board a sightseeing cruise to witness the powerful and mesmerizing Naruto whirlpools up close. This tour offers a perfect balance of culture, relaxation, and unforgettable scenery. Note: If you select the cycling option, the tour will not include a visit to the Otsuka Museum of Art.
Price: $1,000.00
Duration: 9 hours
Wakimachi, Mima City, located in the middle basin of the Yoshino River, a major river in Shikoku, is a river port town that prospered through the cultivation of indigo, known as "Japan blue," and the distribution of indigo dye, "sukumo," throughout Japan. The residences of the indigo merchants, as typified by Wakimachi, have "udatsu" firewalls as a symbol of their wealth. This potter's tour will give visitors a sense of the history of water transportation along such a long river, the history and legacy of the fight against flooding along the raging Yoshino River, the indigo dyeing technique, and the lifestyle and culture of people who have lived together with indigo. You can enjoy pottering with a navigator who tells you the story of the region and the spaces where people live that you cannot visit by car.
Price: $141.27
Duration: 5 hours
This is a course to experience the Shikoku Pilgrimage by pottering around. This tour is recommended for those who are interested in the pilgrimage but think it might be a bit difficult to visit 88 pilgrimage sites on foot. We will meet at Tokushima Station and take a JR train to Ikeya Station by bicycle. From the station, we will ride through the countryside with Naruto's lotus root fields and other fields toward Reizanji Temple, the first temple of the Shikoku Sacred Sites. After passing through the shopping street at Bando Station, the pilgrimage route begins with the gate of Reizanji Temple in front of you, and the atmosphere of the pilgrimage is enhanced as you gather your sutra books and costumes at the No. 1 temple. From Reizanji Temple, the pilgrims will take a relatively gentle route in order from Gokurakuji Temple (No. 2) to Kinsenji Temple (No. 3) to Dainichiji Temple (No. 4) to Jizoji Temple (No. 5) to Anrakuji Temple (No. 6), visiting the temples slowly along a walking pilgrimage route with few cars passing by. On the walking course, you can find points with remnants of the Edo period that cannot be discovered if you drive, with the navigator's commentary. In addition to the pilgrimage route, the tour can be combined with other attractive places, such as the venerable Omabiko Shrine and the Ninth Village, which has a tradition of exchange with Germany. We will propose a fashionable and new style of pilgrimage pottering tailored to your needs! (*Courses can be arranged to suit the participants.)
Price: $141.27
Duration: 7 hours
This private and customizable tour for Tokushima is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace. Discover Tokushima at your own pace on this fully customizable 8-hour half day private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences. After booking, you'll receive a form with various themes, facilitating easy selection based on your interests. Whether it's culture, history, cuisine, nature, or special events, you can highlight your preferences and must-see spots, streamlining our planning process
Price: $328.13
Duration: 8 hours
Explore the streets where old-fashioned life remains. An elegant time to buy sweets at a local Japanese confectionery store and eat them in an old mansion in the Edo period. If you run along Japan's best clear stream, Sadamitsu River, you can see steep slopes of the World Agricultural Heritage and beautiful waterfalls.
Price: $141.27
Duration: 5 hours
Explore Tokushima’s charming indigo town on a Brompton bike. Enjoy riverside cycling, local sweets, a coffee break by the Anabuki River, and try traditional indigo dyeing in this small-group 3-hour tour.
Price: $115.58
Duration: 3 hours
This tour follows the path of Japan’s purest river, the Anabuki. In the summertime, many people head to the lower reaches of the river to camp, but this cycling course on the upper reaches avoids the crowds. This is a tour for adults to enjoy the quiet and beautiful Anabuki River at a relaxed pace. It’s a very easy ride — the bus takes you up the river, and you only have to pedal downhill. Along the way, you can take a break at a shrine with a mysterious atmosphere, cross a submersible bridge, go down to the riverbank and play in the water, and let the guide show you various places according to your mood. When you return to the town of Anabuki, you can stop by a stylish café that offers tea and cake made from local ingredients. It’s also possible to arrange a half day tour by reducing the distance.
Price: $127.14
Duration: 4-8 hours
Step back in time and stroll through the historical Udatsu District in a traditional kimono, where the charm of the Edo to Meiji eras remains alive. Be transformed with professional kimono dressing and immerse yourself in the ambiance of old Japan. A local guide will explain the town's rich history, the meaning of “udatsu,” and the skills of local artisans. Perfect for couples, friends, or girls’ trips – a relaxing and memorable 3 - hour experience. In case of rain, the outdoor walking tour will be replaced with a kimono dressing class indoors. Please note that kimono strolls will not be conducted in rainy weather. Additionally, depending on the season (typically from June to October), yukata provided instead of kimono.
Price: $127.14
Duration: 3 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: JPY
- Languages: Japanese, English (commonly spoken by tourists)
- Climate: Humid subtropical
- Timezone: Asia/Tokyo
- Population: Approximately 720,000
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is summer for festivals and spring/autumn for mild weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries, including the US, EU, and UK, can enter Japan visa-free for short stays up to 90 days for tourism. Others may require a visa obtained in advance. Japan does not generally offer visa on arrival but has e-visa options for certain nationalities. Travelers must have a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds.
About Tokushima Prefecture
Tokushima Prefecture, located on Japan’s Shikoku island, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant local traditions. It is best known for the spectacular Awa Odori dance festival held every August, where thousands of dancers and musicians fill the streets with energy and color. Beyond the festival, Tokushima boasts stunning natural attractions such as the Naruto whirlpools, dramatic mountain landscapes, and serene rivers. The prefecture is also part of the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage route, featuring 88 historic temples that attract spiritual travelers. Visitors can enjoy rural charm, local crafts, and fresh seafood, making it a compelling destination for those seeking authentic Japanese culture away from the major urban centers. Its warm climate and welcoming communities add to the appeal, inviting tourists to explore both its lively festivals and tranquil countryside.
Tokushima Prefecture Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Japan
- Duration Range: Half-day or Full-day
- Group Size: Private or shared tours
- Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is summer for festivals and spring/autumn for mild weather. Pack light clothing for summer and layers for cooler seasons. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and polite greetings. Carry cash as some places do not accept cards. Safety is high, but be mindful of natural terrain when hiking.
Average Tour Price: $65
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $200
1. Choose Your Tour
Browse our curated selection of tours and select your perfect adventure.
2. Check Details
Review tour inclusions, duration, and meeting points carefully.
3. Book Online
Complete your booking securely with instant confirmation.
4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Tokushima Prefecture.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Awa Odori Festival – Japan’s largest traditional dance festival, famous for its lively performances and festive atmosphere. 2. Naruto Whirlpools – Natural tidal whirlpools in the Naruto Strait, best viewed from boats or observation decks. 3. Mount Bizan – Offers panoramic views of Tokushima city and the surrounding area, accessible by cable car. 4. Ryozenji Temple – The first temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, rich in history and spiritual significance. 5. Iya Valley – A remote, scenic valley known for vine bridges, waterfalls, and pristine nature.
Popular Activities
Visitors can participate in traditional dance workshops during the Awa Odori festival, take boat tours to see the Naruto whirlpools, hike in the Iya Valley, and explore temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy river rafting, cycling, and hot spring bathing. Cultural experiences include visiting local craft studios and sampling regional cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Tokushima’s cuisine features fresh seafood, Tokushima ramen (a soy sauce-based noodle soup with pork and vegetables), and sudachi citrus used to flavor dishes. Local specialties include Awa chicken and river fish dishes. Dining customs emphasize seasonal ingredients and presentation. Noteworthy restaurants include those serving traditional ramen and local izakayas offering regional sake and snacks.
Getting Around
Tokushima is accessible by train via JR lines and by air through Tokushima Awaodori Airport. Local buses serve major towns, but public transport is limited in rural areas. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility. Taxis are available but can be costly. Costs for public transport are moderate, while car rentals vary by season.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is summer for festivals and spring/autumn for mild weather. Pack light clothing for summer and layers for cooler seasons. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and polite greetings. Carry cash as some places do not accept cards. Safety is high, but be mindful of natural terrain when hiking.
Culture & Customs
Tokushima culture is deeply rooted in traditional arts like Awa Odori dance and local crafts. Festivals are important social events. Politeness and respect are key social norms. Visitors should bow when greeting and avoid loud behavior in public. The Awa Odori festival is a highlight, showcasing communal spirit and heritage.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..