Best Of Tokushima

OVERVIEW

View Tokushima's most characteristic attractions and come away with a deeper understanding of the local culture. At Awa Odori Hall, you will watch a performance that mirrors the traditional dances seen in the city's annual street festival. It will be an enlightening experience, especially after browsing museum exhibits that reveal the history of the dance festival. You will also see the remains of Tokushima Castle, an Edo-period stronghold that perches atop a hill overlooking the city. Much of the castle was purposefully dismantled in accordance with a 1873 Meiji-period ordinance that called for the disposal of Japan's castles. The original gate was saved until it was destroyed when Tokushima was bombed during World War II. The Omote Goten Gardens on the castle grounds have been reconstructed and are so magnificent that they have been designated a National Scenic Site. You can't help but feel a sense of peace while walking through them.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Gain insight into the local culture by visiting some of Tokushima’s most iconic attractions.
• Watch a performance of dances just like the ones performed in Tokushima’s annual street festival.
• Walk among the ruins of Tokushima Castle and through the serene gardens that surround it.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.