Tucked away in the center of Shikoku Island, Japan, is Tokushima, a hidden treasure just waiting to be explored. Known for its vibrant festivals, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, this city offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions. Tokushima has something to offer everyone, regardless of your interests—foodies, history buffs, or adventure seekers alike. Navigating all the notable highlights of this enchanting destination will ensure you make the most of your visit.
Craving an exceptional Japan adventure? Explore our handpicked premium tours here for the ultimate experience.
Population: Approximately 728,000 in 2019.
Economy: Tokushima’s economy is dominated by 3 major industries, which are agriculture, forestry and fisheries. The region also is Japan’s largest supplier of cauliflower and lotus roots.
Landmarks: Famous for the Awa Odori Kaikan, Tokushima Castle Museum, and Naruto Whirlpools.
Japan
Tokushima’s history blends effortlessly between ancient traditions and modern influences. Founded in the 16th century, the city played a significant role during the Edo period as a hub for indigo dyeing. This rich past is still evident today, with many historical sites and cultural practices preserved for visitors to explore. One of the most notable landmarks is the Tokushima Castle Museum, which offers a glimpse into the city’s feudal past. The museum, built in the remains of Tokushima Castle, features displays and artifacts that demonstrate the development, together with the well-preserved culture of the city over time.
Tokushima offers a charming blend of urban and rural living to both its dwellers and visitors. The citizens of Tokushima are known for their warm hospitality and strong sense of community. They take pride in their rich cultural heritage, especially their famous Awa Odori dance festival. Both in bustling city centers or tranquil countryside, the people of Tokushima embody a harmonious balance of tradition and modernity.
Tokushima-Shi, Tokushima Prefecture, Japan - © Facts
Tokushima boasts a variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests. From historical buildings to natural wonders, you will find a lot of exciting things to discover at every turn.
Awa Odori dance - © Japan Tourism
Tokushima’s cuisine is a delightful journey for foodies around the world. Give these must-try local dishes a taste and you'll get a true taste of Tokushima’s culinary diversity and richness. Each dish offers unique flavors and stories, contributing to a memorable culinary experience.
Tokushima Ramen - © Los Angeles Times
Tokushima is vibrant with festivals and local celebrations that offer a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. Each offers a unique experience, filled with music, dance, and the warmth of the local community.
Held every August, the Awa Odori Festival is Tokushima's most famous event and one of Japan's largest dance festivals. It dates back over 400 years and attracts more than a million visitors each year. Thousands of dancers in traditional costumes perform the vivacious Awa Odori dance around the streets as part of the event. Accompanied by traditional music played on shamisen, taiko drums, and flutes, the energetic and rhythmic dance creates a festive and electric atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to join in the dance, and there are numerous food stalls, souvenir shops, and performances to enjoy throughout the city.
Celebrating the harvest of the famous Naruto Kintoki sweet potatoes, this festival takes place in the autumn. The event includes parades, traditional music and dance performances, and an array of food stalls offering various sweet potato dishes. Highlights of the festival include sweet potato digging activities, cooking demonstrations, and contests where locals and visitors can showcase their culinary skills using Naruto Kintoki. It's a fun and family-friendly event that not only celebrates local agriculture but also fosters community spirit.
In March, Tokushima celebrates the Hina Doll Festival, also known as Girls' Day. This festival features the display of Hina dolls, which are intricately crafted and dressed in traditional Heian-period clothing. The dolls stand in for the emperor, empress, and their court and are set on a tiered stage. The festival also includes traditional music and dance performances, tea ceremonies, and workshops where visitors can learn about the art of doll making. It’s a cultural celebration that highlights the importance of family and the wish for health and happiness for young girls.
Hina Doll Festival - © Japan Tourism
Naruto Whirlpools - © Japan Tourism
Want to know about Obuse? Check out our insights here and see why it's worth a visit.
Spring in Tokushima - © Terumi Tokino
Navigating Tokushima is stress-free with various transportation options available that suit your every need.
Looking for more adventures? Dive into Hakone, another famous destination in Japan, with our article here.
Handling your finances while traveling is crucial, and Tokushima provides several convenient banking and ATM services. ATMs are widely accessible at major train stations, convenience stores, and shopping malls, with many accepting foreign credit and debit cards for easy cash withdrawals. Currency exchange services are available at major hotels, airports, and some banks, though better rates might be found at local branches or exchange offices. Most businesses in Tokushima accept major credit and debit cards, but it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller shops and rural areas where card payment might not be available.
Tokushima provides a variety of accommodation choices to suit different preferences and budgets.
Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s southeastern corner, Yala National Park is where wild nature meets deep tradition. Known worldwide for its leopard population, the park is also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Beyond wildlife, Yala opens doors to a cultural landscape dotted with ancient temples, Buddhist ruins, and coastal villages. For travelers seeking more than just a safari, Yala offers a chance to explore eco-tourism, local communities, and sacred heritage sites.
Population: The Yala National Park area doesn’t have a human population.
Economy: The economy around Yala National Park thrives on a blend of eco-tourism, agriculture, and local services. Safari tours, eco-lodges, and cultural experiences drive steady income for nearby towns like Tissamaharama and Kataragama, supporting thousands of families.
Landmarks: Famous for Block I of Yala and wildlife encounters, including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and exotic bird species.
Nestled on Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, Galle is a vibrant city where history meets the sea. Its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and serene beaches make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Galle captivates visitors with its Dutch Fort, bustling markets, and friendly locals. Whether you’re exploring the ramparts at sunset or savoring fresh seafood by the shore, Galle promises an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s heritage.
Population: Approximately 113,000 in 2023.
Economy: Galle’s economy thrives on tourism, trade, and fisheries. The city’s historic fort, colonial architecture, and coastal charm draw thousands of international visitors each year, making tourism its main economic driver. Fishing remains vital for local livelihoods, supplying fresh seafood across the region.
Landmarks: Famous for the Galle Fort, Dutch Reformed Church & Maritime Museum, and Unawatuna Beach.
Nestled along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, Bentota is a tropical paradise that blends golden beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures. Famous for its calm waters, luxury resorts, and scenic river estuary, Bentota has become a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and authentic experiences. From serene beach walks at sunrise to adrenaline-pumping water sports, this coastal town offers a perfect balance of leisure and exploration. With its proximity to Colombo and Galle, Bentota is easy to reach, making it an ideal stop for both short escapes and extended holidays.
Population: Approximately 37,000 in 2023.
Economy: Bentota’s economy thrives mainly on tourism, which drives local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and wellness retreats. The town also benefits from fishing, coconut cultivation, and handicrafts like wood carving and batik textiles. Many residents rely on the growing demand for water sports and Ayurvedic treatments, making tourism the backbone of both income and employment in the area.
Landmarks: Famous for Bentota Beach, Bentota River Safari, and Kande Vihara Temple.
Mirissa is a charming coastal town on Sri Lanka’s southern shoreline. Known for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, it has become a must-visit stop for travelers exploring the island. Many come for whale watching, surfing, and sunset views at Coconut Tree Hill, but Mirissa offers much more than postcard beauty. The fishing boats you see anchored by the bay carry generations of stories. Local traditions, delicious cuisine, and a laid-back rhythm of life shape every visitor’s experience.
Population: Approximately 4,700 in 2023.
Economy: Mirissa’s economy is largely shaped by its coastal location. Fishing has long been the backbone of local livelihoods, with generations relying on the Indian Ocean for income. In recent decades, tourism has become the main driver of growth, thanks to whale watching, surfing, and beachside hospitality.
Landmarks: Famous for Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, and Parrot Rock Bridge.
Tucked away in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is often called “Little England”. With its rolling tea plantations, cool misty mornings, and colonial charm, this mountain town feels like a step into another world. Travelers come here to breathe fresh air, walk through flower gardens, sip the finest Ceylon Tea, and enjoy a pace of life far from the island’s busy cities. Whether you’re drawn by scenic landscapes, heritage architecture, or the warmth of its people, Nuwara Eliya is a destination that blends nature, culture, and history in perfect harmony.
Population: Approximately 781,000 in 2023.
Economy: Nuwara Eliya’s economy thrives mainly on tea production, as it sits in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, famous worldwide for Ceylon Tea. The city also benefits from a growing tourism industry, attracting visitors with its colonial charm, cool climate, and scenic landscapes.
Landmarks: Famous for Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and Victoria Park.
Nestled on the banks of the Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, Sukau is a destination where wildlife, culture, and conservation come together. Known as one of Asia’s top spots for river safaris and eco-tourism, this quiet village offers a front-row seat to encounters with Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and exotic birdlife.
Population: Approximately 1,400 in 2019.
Economy: Sukau’s economy is shaped by its riverine location and natural resources. Traditionally, the Orang Sungai community relied on fishing, small-scale farming, and forest gathering for their livelihood. Today, the village has shifted toward eco-tourism, with river cruises, jungle trekking, and homestays providing income.
Landmarks: Famous for the Kinabatangan River cruises, Gomantong Caves, and Ox-bow lakes and wetlands.