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Highlights of Tokushima Prefecture

Naruto Whirlpool

The Naruto whirlpools are one of the largest whirlpools in Japan that can be seen in the Naruto Strait. This is a natural phenomenon that occurs due to the difference in tidal levels between the Seto Inland Sea and the Kii Channel, and you will be overwhelmed by its impact. We recommend boarding a sightseeing boat so you can see the whirlpools up close. There are various types of ships, from small ships to large ships, and you can choose according to your preference. Small boats are especially popular as they offer the thrilling experience of plunging into a whirlpool. We also recommend the observation deck where you can view the whirlpools from above. You can get a panoramic view of the whirlpools from the Onaruto Bridge promenade “Uzu no Michi” or from the observation deck in Naruto Park. In particular, you can see more dynamic whirlpools during the spring and fall when the tidal level difference is large.

Awa dance

Awa Odori is one of Japan’s three major Bon dances, held in Tokushima City from August 12th to 15th every year. This is a traditional festival with a history of about 400 years, and the whole city is filled with excitement during the festival. The sight of men and women of all ages dancing wildly is a sight to behold, with chants of “If you’re an idiot, you’re an idiot, so don’t dance!” The dancers’ gorgeous costumes and the light musical accompaniment of shamisen, drums, gongs, and other instruments are also attractive. Anyone can freely participate in Awa Odori. During the festival, groups of dancers known as”ren” parade around the city while dancing, and walk-ins are also welcome. Dancing classes for beginners are also held, so feel free to give it a try. [blogcard url=”https://arigatomedia.jp/cultures/japanese-festivals/”]

Iya Valley

Iya Valley is a quiet hot spring area in the mountains located in the southern part of Tokushima Prefecture. Located at the foot of Mt. Tsurugi, known as the “roof of the Shikoku Mountains,” the area is known for its rich nature and high-quality hot springs. Iya Valley is known as a beautiful valley with fresh greenery and autumn leaves. There are walking trails where you can enjoy hiking and forest bathing. Iya Valley Hot Springs are also said to be effective for treating neuralgia and muscle pain, and have been popular as a hot spring spa since ancient times. There are also plenty of accommodation facilities such as inns and hotels in the surrounding area. There is also a hot spring facility for day trips, so you can easily enjoy the hot springs. Why not refresh your mind and body in a quiet environment surrounded by nature?

Highlights of Kagawa Prefecture

Sanuki udon

Sanuki udon is known as a gourmet dish representing Kagawa Prefecture. It is known for its firmness and is loved by locals. There are many Sanuki udon restaurants in Kagawa Prefecture. You can enjoy it at a variety of restaurants, from long-established famous restaurants to locally popular restaurants. There are many self-service shops, so you can easily enjoy Sanuki udon. Self-serve Sanuki udon is a style where you boil the noodles yourself and choose your favorite toppings. A wide variety of toppings such as tempura and eggs are also available. One of the attractions is that you can make your own Sanuki udon. [blogcard url=”https://arigatomedia.jp/food/udon/”]

Ritsurin Park

Ritsurin Park is a garden in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture that has been designated as a special scenic spot by the country. It is counted as one of Japan’s three most famous gardens, and its beauty is highly praised both domestically and internationally. This garden has a history of about 400 years, and was built by the then lord of the Takamatsu domain in the early Edo period. Six ponds and 13 artificial hills are skillfully placed on the vast grounds, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of each season. The park is also dotted with historical buildings such as the tea room and Kikgetsutei. There is also a walking path, so you can take your time walking around the garden. It is recommended as a spot where you can enjoy the beauty of a Japanese garden.

Shodoshima

Shodoshima is an island located approximately 20km northeast of Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture. It is the second largest island in the Seto Inland Sea and is also known as “Olive Island.” Shodoshima Olive Park is a park where approximately 2,000 olive trees are cultivated. Inside the park, there are facilities where you can learn about the history and culture of olives, as well as shops that sell products made with olives. Also, Angel Road is a sand road that only appears twice a day at low tide. You can walk to the island on the opposite shore, and it is also popular as a power spot for fulfilling your love life.

Highlights of Ehime Prefecture

Matsuyama Castle

Matsuyama Castle is a castle located in the center of Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture. Hirayama Castle was built on Shiroyama at an altitude of 132m, and its history dates back to the Azuchi-Momoyama period. The existing castle tower was built in the late Edo period and has been designated as a national important cultural property. From the castle tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Matsuyama city and the Seto Inland Sea. Inside the castle, structures such as the Honmaru and Ninomaru, turrets, and gates remain. It is also maintained as Shiroyama Park, where you can enjoy nature in all four seasons.

Dogo Onsen

Dogo Onsen Onsen is a hot spring located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture. It is counted as one of Japan’s three oldest hot springs and is said to have a history of about 3,000 years. The most distinctive feature of Dogo Onsen is its amount of hot water. More than 3,000 liters of hot water gushes out every minute, and the hot spring town is lined with many inns and hotels. In the center of the hot spring town is the Dogo Onsen Honkan. This public bath was built in the Meiji period and has been designated as a national important cultural property. You can fully enjoy the atmosphere of a hot spring in a building with a retro atmosphere.

Shimanami Kaido

Shimanami Kaido is a maritime road with a total length of approximately 70 km that connects Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture and Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture. It connects the islands of the Seto Inland Sea with bridges, and is also known as the “sacred place for cyclists.” The Shimanami Kaido is equipped with dedicated bicycle paths, allowing everyone from beginners to experts to enjoy cycling safely. The islands along the way are full of sightseeing and gourmet spots. We recommend renting a bicycle and enjoying island hopping. There are bicycle rental terminals along the Shimanami Kaido, where you can easily rent a bicycle.

Highlights of Kochi Prefecture

Kochi Castle

Kochi Castle is a castle located in Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture. The castle was built by Kiyomasa Kato, known as a master castle builder, and later Kazutoyo Yamauchi moved into the castle. The existing castle tower was rebuilt in 1717 and is designated as a national important cultural property. From the castle tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kochi city and the Pacific Ocean. Inside the castle, there are many buildings that retain the architectural style of the time, such as the Honmaru Palace and the Otemon Gate. You can also see exhibits about the history and culture of Kochi Castle at the Kochi Castle History Museum.

Tosa Shimizu City

is an area located in the western part of Kochi Prefecture. It is characterized by a ria-style coast facing the Pacific Ocean, and is one of Japan’s most representative scenic spots with its beautiful coastline. It is known as a heart-shaped rock and is also popular as a power spot for fulfilling love. A cape located in the southern part of Kochi Prefecture, the cliffs jut out into the Pacific Ocean and offer spectacular views.