Tokushima

Name: Tokushima - City of the Awa Odori Dance
Address: Tokushima, Tokushima, JP
Price range: Free

City

Last updated September 07, 2026 Reviewed by the Japan Voyage editorial team

Prefecture

Tokushima

Type

City

N/A

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Free

Entry Fee

Free Entry Restaurant Train Access Cafe

About This Destination

Home of the Awa Odori, Japan's largest and most famous dance festival that transforms the entire city each August with over a million spectators and dancers.

Tokushima is the starting point for pilgrims embarking on the sacred 88-temple Shikoku pilgrimage, with Temple Number One located just outside the city. The prefecture's most famous event is the Awa Odori, Japan's largest dance festival where millions gather in August to watch and join the spirited traditional dancing. The dramatic Iya Valley and Naruto whirlpools nearby make Tokushima an excellent base for exploring Shikoku's natural wonders.

Location

Prefecture: Tokushima

Address: Tokushima, Japan

Nearest Station: Tokushima Station

Best time to visit: Mid-August for the famous Awa Odori dance festival; the Naruto whirlpools are close by

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Accepted

Food Options: Tokushima ramen with a rich pork-bone and soy sauce broth topped with raw egg is the signature dish. Fresh sudachi citrus flavors everything from soba to beer. Naruto sea bream (tai) and locally raised Awa-odori chicken (yes, named after the dance) are premium ingredients. Try dekomawashi grilled skewers at Iya Valley.

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Access

Tokushima, Tokushima

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Tokushima?

From Tokyo, a flight to Tokushima takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. Alternatively, a highway bus from Osaka takes around 2 hours 40 minutes, or you can take a JR train from Okayama via Takamatsu in roughly 2 hours.

What is Tokushima famous for?

Tokushima is the home of Awa Odori, Japan's largest dance festival, held August 12-15 and drawing around 1.3 million visitors. The area is also known for the nearby Naruto whirlpools and its traditional indigo (aizome) dyeing.

Can I experience Awa Odori outside the festival, and how much does it cost?

Yes. The Awa Odori Kaikan offers exhibits and daily performances year-round, with admission to the exhibits costing ¥300. The festival itself peaks August 12-15, the best time for the full atmosphere.