0 CultureThings to do in All areas
Found 36 plans in All areas
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【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Temples 1, 2, and 3
Learn about various historical objects on the temple grounds of the first three temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route - Temple 1, Ryōzenji, Temple 2, Gokurakuji, and Temple 3, Konsenji. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 1, Ryōzenji ◆Temple 2, Gokurakuji ◆Temple 3, Konsenji Temple 1 Ryōzenji: If you are starting your journey here, perhaps you might be interested in buying some of the accouterments – such as sedge hat, wooden staff, pilgrimage book, white pilgrim coat etc. – that people get to show that are making this journey as a henro (Shikoku pilgrim). Enjoy the atmosphere, feel free to take photographs (except for the innermost part of the main hall where the altar is), look at the various buildings and statues, and perhaps take your pilgrimage book to the temple office to have it signed and stamped. Temple 2 Gokurakuji: As you walk along the path, you will most likely be impressed by the large garden on your left and various statues on your right. After you turn left and walk a little bit further, you will see a huge tree in front of you. It is called “the cedar of long life” (chōmei sugi) and is believed to have been planted by the well-known 8th century Buddhist priest Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi, who founded many of the temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. Next, go up a flight of steep stone stairs to see the main hall and Daishi hall, the latter which has a statue of Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi enshrined inside. In front of the Daishi hall are many amulets and wooden tablets related to the safe birth of a child. In fact, the large statue of Kōbō Daishi was given to the temple by a woman during the Meiji period (1868-1912) when she had a safe childbirth after visiting this temple. Temple 3 Konsenji: Recommended Points: ◆A well beside the Daishi hall, which is said to have been dug by Kōbō Daishi for the benefit of the local people when he visited here in the 9th century. It is said that if you can see your reflection in the water, you will live a long life. ◆“Benkei`s stone of strength”, which is in the garden in front of the temple office. It is believed that warrior-monk Benkei (1155-1189) lifted this stone during the 12th century when he came here on his way to fight in the Battle of Yashima in present-day Kagawa prefecture. Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 40,000 Yen Group of 2: 20,000 Yen Group of 3: 13,000 Yen Group of 4: 10,000 Yen Age: 10 & Older Walking Distance: Approx. 6.5 km Time Needed: Approx. 5 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Culture
Hiking/Walking
JPY 10,000
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【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Cranes and Dragons – Hike to Temple 20 and 21 (9 hours)
Learn about various historical objects on the temple grounds of the first two temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route - Temple 20, Kakurinji and Temple 21, Tairyūji. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 20, Kakurinji ◆Temple 21, Tairyūji Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 90,000 Yen Group of 2: 45,000 Yen Group of 3: 30,000 Yen Group of 4: 22,500 Yen (For more than four people, please contact us. Max: 7 people) Age: 15 & Older Walking Distance: Approx. 10 km Time Needed: Approx. 9 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.
Minami・Mugi・Shishikui
Culture
Hiking/Walking
JPY 22,500
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【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Visit Three Temples, One Shrine, and the Naruto German House (8 Hours)
Learn about various historical objects on the temple grounds of the first three temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route - Temple 1, Ryōzenji, Temple 2, Gokurakuji, and Temple 3, Konsenji; one of the largest Shinto shrines in Tokushima; and the Naruto German House, a "museum" about the German POWs. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 1, Ryōzenji ◆Temple 2, Gokurakuji ◆Temple 3, Konsenji ◆Oasa Hiko Jinja Shrine ◆Naruto German House Temple 1 Ryōzenji: If you are starting your journey here, perhaps you might be interested in buying some of the accouterments – such as sedge hat, wooden staff, pilgrimage book, white pilgrim coat etc. – that people get to show that are making this journey as a henro (Shikoku pilgrim). Enjoy the atmosphere, feel free to take photographs (except for the innermost part of the main hall where the altar is), look at the various buildings and statues, and perhaps take your pilgrimage book to the temple office to have it signed and stamped. Temple 2 Gokurakuji: As you walk along the path, you will most likely be impressed by the large garden on your left and various statues on your right. After you turn left and walk a little bit further, you will see a huge tree in front of you. It is called “the cedar of long life” (chōmei sugi) and is believed to have been planted by the well-known 8th century Buddhist priest Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi, who founded many of the temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. Next, go up a flight of steep stone stairs to see the main hall and Daishi hall, the latter which has a statue of Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi enshrined inside. In front of the Daishi hall are many amulets and wooden tablets related to the safe birth of a child. In fact, the large statue of Kōbō Daishi was given to the temple by a woman during the Meiji period (1868-1912) when she had a safe childbirth after visiting this temple. Temple 3 Konsenji: Recommended Points: ◆A well beside the Daishi hall, which is said to have been dug by Kōbō Daishi for the benefit of the local people when he visited here in the 9th century. It is said that if you can see your reflection in the water, you will live a long life. ◆“Benkei`s stone of strength”, which is in the garden in front of the temple office. It is believed that warrior-monk Benkei (1155-1189) lifted this stone during the 12th century when he came here on his way to fight in the Battle of Yashima in present-day Kagawa prefecture. Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 50,000 Yen Group of 2: 25,000 Yen Group of 3: 16,500 Yen Group of 4: 12,500 Yen (For more than four people, please contact us) Age: 10 & Older Walking Distance: Approx. 9 km Time Needed: Approx. 8 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Culture
Hiking/Walking
JPY 12,500
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【Ai Take no Uchi Kobo】Aizome Indigo Dyeing
【About Ai Take no Uchi Kobo】 The owner, Yoshiko Takeuchi, is in her 80s and still pouring her heart into indigo dyeing. Come and visit, and enjoy indigo dyeing with a warm-hearted grandmother who knows a lot about history! Yoshiko's mother-in-law, Akiko Takeuchi, was born in 1919 and was designated by the prefecture as an "Intangible Cultural Heritage (Art Techniques) on March 3rd, 1982. In her youth, she worked as a roketsu dyer, and in 1973 she studied under Shokichi Watanabe, a dyer in Gifu Prefecture, and learned techniques for indigo dyeing and researched indigo dyeing methods. The indigo dyed by Akiko Takeuchi was truly fitting for the prefecture of indigo - Tokushima. Continuing on the dream of her mother-in-law, Yoshiko Takeuchi reopened the workshop "Ai Take no Uchi Kobo" in 2017. 【About the Aizome Indigo Dyeing Activity】 Guests will dye either a cotton handkerchief, gauze towel, or cotton bandana. Prices per Person: Handkerchief (Cotton): 2,100 Yen Towel (Gauze): 2,600 Yen Bandana (Cotton): 2,700 Yen Necessary Time: Approximately 2 Hours Number of People: 1 ~ 5 【About the Company】 Ai Take no Uchi Kobo Address: Eguchi 38-5, Nakamura, Kitajima Town, Itano District, Tokushima Prefecture HP: https://aitakenouti.jimdofree.com/
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Hands-on Crafts
Traditional Crafts
Culture
JPY 2,100
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Handmaking Miso with Pesticide-free Ingredients!
Experience making miso with pesticide-free ingredients in a 150- year-old Japanese traditional folk house! Young children are welcome to join! Enjoy making traditional miso in a relaxing environment. Local mineral water is used for making miso, and the soybeans are carefully cooked over a bonfire. After the activity, you can take home 2 kg （about 4.4lbs) of miso. After taking it home, you have to let the miso rest for at least 3 months before you can eat it. The taste of the miso changes depending on the length of time it is left to rest. Leaving the miso to rest for your preferred length of time is part of the fun of making hand-made miso! Enjoy making the perfect miso using safe ingredients during the best time for miso making. ♪ 【Ingredients】 ・ Pesticide-free Soybeans ・ Pesticide-free Koji Malted Rice ・ Sun-dried Salt ・ Local Mineral Water ♢About the Mugi Aozora Project ♢ We plan and operate nature activity tours in southern Tokushima Prefecture. In 150-year-old Japanese traditional folk houses (kominka), guests can experience the country way of life throughout the four seasons. We also offer many tours for children as young as under 1, as well as camping programs. Our staff have over 15 years of experience in nature activities. We're looking forward to meeting you!
Minami・Mugi・Shishikui
Culture
Food Making
JPY 5,500
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【Hi-COLOR handworks】Single Gauze Haori Indigo/Mud/Madder Dyeing
Hi-COLOR handworks is located in Kaiyo Town in the southernmost part of Tokushima Prefecture. We use water from the Kaifu River, said to be one of the cleanest in all Japan, for our dyeing. We also cultivate all of the indigo needed for our dyeing by our ourselves. In addition to indigo dyeing, visitors can experience madder dyeing or mud dyeing, a rarity in Japan, that uses mud from the mineral spring that gushes out a local shrine. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Activity Details We will dye a single gauze 8-part sleeved haori. You can choose between indigo dyeing, mud dyeing, or madder dyeing. It can be dyed in a single color, or with two different colors. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Unfortunately, if you put our address into a car navigation system, it will only show a portion of the route. Please put "Hi-COLOR handworks" into Google Maps. ----------- Shop Details ----------- 【Name】Hi-COLOR handworks 【Address】〒775-0202 Tsutsujigon 6-2. Ogawa, Kaiyo-cho, Kaifu-gun, Tokushima Prefecture 【TEL】0884-75-2515 【HP】https://hi-colorhandworks.com/
Minami・Mugi・Shishikui
Traditional Crafts
Culture
JPY 11,000
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【Hi-COLOR handworks】Hemp Stole Indigo/Mud/Madder Dyeing
Hi-COLOR handworks is located in Kaiyo Town in the southernmost part of Tokushima Prefecture. We use water from the Kaifu River, said to be one of the cleanest in all Japan, for our dyeing. We also cultivate all of the indigo needed for our dyeing by our ourselves. In addition to indigo dyeing, visitors can experience madder dyeing or mud dyeing, a rarity in Japan, that uses mud from the mineral spring that gushes out a local shrine. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Activity Details We will dye a hemp stole (180 cm x 53 cm). You can choose between indigo dyeing, mud dyeing, or madder dyeing. It can be dyed in a single color, or with two different colors. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Unfortunately, if you put our address into a car navigation system, it will only show a portion of the route. Please put "Hi-COLOR handworks" into Google Maps. ----------- Shop Details ----------- 【Name】Hi-COLOR handworks 【Address】〒775-0202 Tsutsujigon 6-2. Ogawa, Kaiyo-cho, Kaifu-gun, Tokushima Prefecture 【TEL】0884-75-2515 【HP】https://hi-colorhandworks.com/
Minami・Mugi・Shishikui
Traditional Crafts
Culture
JPY 8,800
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Tokushima Central Park Tour (3~3.5 hours)
Explore the Tokushima Central Park and Castle Museum! Places to Visit: ◆Tokushima Central Park ◆Tokushima Castle Museum and Gardens Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 20,000 Yen Group of 2: 10,000 Yen Group of 3: 7,000 Yen Group of 4: 5,000 Yen Age: 10 & Older Time Needed: Approx. 3 ~ 3.5 Hours ＊The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc. ＊The tour time can be changed according to your schedule. ＊This tour is not available on Mondays when the castle museum and gardens are closed.
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Culture
Hiking/Walking
JPY 5,000
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【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】The Hair of Two Women Enshrined at Two Temples (7 hours)
Learn about various historical objects on the temple grounds of two of the temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route - Temple 18, Ozanji and Temple 19, Tatsueji, as well as a mini-Shikoku pilgrimage route. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 18, Onzanji ◆Temple 19, Tatsueji ◆Mini-Shikoku pilgrimage route Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 50,000 Yen Group of 2: 25,000 Yen Group of 3: 16,500 Yen Group of 4: 12,500 Yen (For more than four people, please contact us) Walking Distance: Approx. 10 km Time Needed: Approx. 7 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.
Anan・Naka・Kito
Culture
Hiking/Walking
JPY 12,500
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【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Temples 1 to 5
Learn about various historical objects on the temple grounds of the first five temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route - Temple 1, Ryōzenji; Temple 2, Gokurakuji; Temple 3, Konsenji; Temple 4, Dainichiji; and Temple 5, Jizōji. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 1, Ryōzenji ◆Temple 2, Gokurakuji ◆Temple 3, Konsenji ◆Temple 4, Dainichiji ◆Temple 5, Jizōji Temple 1 Ryōzenji: If you are starting your journey here, perhaps you might be interested in buying some of the accouterments – such as sedge hat, wooden staff, pilgrimage book, white pilgrim coat etc. – that people get to show that are making this journey as a henro (Shikoku pilgrim). Enjoy the atmosphere, feel free to take photographs (except for the innermost part of the main hall where the altar is), look at the various buildings and statues, and perhaps take your pilgrimage book to the temple office to have it signed and stamped. Temple 2 Gokurakuji: As you walk along the path, you will most likely be impressed by the large garden on your left and various statues on your right. After you turn left and walk a little bit further, you will see a huge tree in front of you. It is called “the cedar of long life” (chōmei sugi) and is believed to have been planted by the well-known 8th century Buddhist priest Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi, who founded many of the temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. Next, go up a flight of steep stone stairs to see the main hall and Daishi hall, the latter which has a statue of Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi enshrined inside. In front of the Daishi hall are many amulets and wooden tablets related to the safe birth of a child. In fact, the large statue of Kōbō Daishi was given to the temple by a woman during the Meiji period (1868-1912) when she had a safe childbirth after visiting this temple. Temple 3 Konsenji: Recommended Points: ◆A well beside the Daishi hall, which is said to have been dug by Kōbō Daishi for the benefit of the local people when he visited here in the 9th century. It is said that if you can see your reflection in the water, you will live a long life. ◆ “Benkei`s stone of strength”, which is in the garden in front of the temple office. It is believed that warrior-monk Benkei (1155-1189) lifted this stone during the 12th century when he came here on his way to fight in the Battle of Yashima in present-day Kagawa prefecture. Temple 4 Dainichiji: Over the past few years Dainichiji has been involved an extensive restoration project including rebuilding the main gate and restoring thirty-three wooden statues made in the 18th century that represent each temple along the 33-sacred site pilgrimage route in the Saigoku region. These statues are located in a covered corridor between the main hall and the Daishi hall. Temple 5 Jizōji: It's recommended to go into the “500 Rakan” building up the stairs behind the temple. Inside the U-shaped building, you will see approximately 200 wooden statues of rakan (arhats in English), which are disciples of Buddha. At the end of the building, you will see many small wooden statues representing the main deities of the pilgrimage routes around Shikoku, Bando, Chichibu and Saigoku. Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 60,000 Yen Group of 2: 30,000 Yen Group of 3: 20,000 Yen Group of 4: 15,000 Yen Age: 14 & Older Walking Distance: Approx. 12 km Time Needed: Approx. 9 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Culture
Hiking/Walking
JPY 15,000
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Pilgrimage
IndigoDyeing
- Awadance
Special Shikoku Pilgrimage and Indigo Dyeing Tour
This two-day tour contains a myriad of unique experiences, such as visiting a portion of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, staying at a temple and experiencing religious services, learning about Tokushima's indigo industry, and seeing Tokushima's famous Awa Odori dance. ◎On Day 1 you will walk a portion of the Shikoku Pilgrimage by foot. Together with a knowledgeable guide, you will walk from Temple No.1 Ryozenji to Temple No.4. Dainichiji. That evening you will stay at Temple No.6 Anrakuji, where there is a hot spring, and take part in the evening service. You will also have the rare opportunity to view beautiful Buddhist statues and paintings located in the small pagoda on the temple grounds. ◎On Day 2 you will experience indigo dyeing at an old merchant's house and enjoy a private performance of Tokushima's famous dance, Awa Odori, by one of Tokushima's most famous dance groups. 【Details】 Price Per Person: For 1 Participant: ￥225,000～ For 2 Participants: ￥200,000～ For 3 to 4 Participants: ￥125,000～ For 5 to 9 Participants: ￥100,000～ For 10 Participants or More: ￥75,000～ ・Meals: Breakfast (1), Lunch (2), Dinner (1) ・English Interpreter/Guide ・Pilgrimage Attire (Stole, Sedge Hat, White Cotton Jacket with Sleeves) ・A support bus (small or medium sized bus) is provided during the walking pilgrimage. It is possible to change to a jumbo taxi or sedan taxi. ・In case of a large number of guests, the night service experience at Anrakuji Temple cannot be held privately. ・Rooms at Anrakuji are typically Western-style rooms with a bath and toilet. Japanese-style rooms (bathroom and toilet outside of the room) are optional. ・The price does not include the overnight stay before the event. We can make arrangements for you upon request. Please feel free to contact us for details. 【Contact】 Air Travel Tokushima Inc. Tel:088-600-8560 E-mail:aitripper@air-travel.jp
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Hands-on Crafts
Traditional Crafts
Culture
Japanese Food
Hiking/Walking
JPY 225,000
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【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Spiritual Checkpoint Temple Tour (6 hours)
Learn about the tales, blessings, and history of Shikoku pilgrimage temple 19, Tatsueji; and walk a mini Shikoku pilgrimage. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 19, Tatsueji ◆Place where a woman called Okyo lived in the 1800s ◆Mini 88-temple Shikoku pilgrimage route Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 40,000 Yen Group of 2: 20,000 Yen Group of 3: 13,000 Yen Group of 4: 10,000 Yen (For more than four people, please contact us) Age: 10 & Older Walking Distance: Approx. 8 km Time Needed: Approx. 6 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.
Anan・Naka・Kito
Culture
Hiking/Walking
JPY 10,000
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Indigo Dyeing at a Traditional Weaving Company! [Silk Stole Dyeing + Factory Tour]
Try your hand at "Aizome Indigo Dyeing", a traditional craft of Tokushima! ♢♢♢About Nagao Orifu ♢♢♢ A long-established weaver since 1897, Nagao Orifu handles the entire process, from dyeing, to weaving, and finally to the finishing touches. In addition to manufacturing fabrics known as "Awa Shijira-ori," which is our primary product line, we also deal in indigo-dyed products. Among them, shijiraori dyed with natural Awa Indigo Dye is called "Awa sho-an shijira-ori," and is designated as a traditional handicraft. Nagao Orifu's "Awa Shijira-ori" and "Aizome Indigo" products are created by combining the beautiful water and indigo of Tokushima and the skills of our craftsmen. Here you can dye your own original silk stole with real indigo. Please visit us for a hands-on experience. - - - - - - - - - - - Plan Details- - - - - - - - - - - - - - ♢ Indigo Dyeing Activity: Silk Stole (1) Dye a silk stole with real indigo. Our staff will help you achieve the desired pattern and color intensity. You can take home your dyed stole after the activity ♢Awa Shijira-ori Factory Tour Tour the historic wooden architecture and experience hand weaving, which is a rarity in modern times. 【NAGAO ORIFU】 189 Kokufu-cyo Wada,Tokushima City,Tokushima,779-3121
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Hands-on Crafts
Traditional Crafts
Culture
JPY 4,000
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Make Authentic Baumkuchen with Bamboo!
In the midst of nature, try your hand at making Baumkuchen with bamboo! You'll start by preparing the bamboo. Steps include cutting the bamboo with a saw, drilling in air holes... Enjoy a unique experience that can only be found here! Once the bamboo sticks are ready, it's time to finish preparations by making the dough. The baking process is divided into two groups, with two people to hold the bamboo sticks and the other to pour the dough over them. It is then baked slowly, where everyone must be in unison. The resulting quality is entirely based on teamwork! Even with the same ingredients, the texture and flavor can turn out to be a bit different. On the premises, you can meet the goats and chickens who have the job of keeping the grass cut. The bamboo leaves cut during the activity will be completely eaten by the goats. This is both an environmentally friendly tour and bamboo maintenance tour! Families, friends and groups are welcome to participate. Reservations require at least 2 people. Due to the necessary tasks, only those 5 and older are able to participate. *The activity schedule/location is subject to change or cancellation due to weather. ♢About the Mugi Aozora Project ♢ We plan and operate nature activity tours in southern Tokushima Prefecture. In 150-year-old Japanese traditional folk houses (kominka), guests can experience the country way of life throughout the four seasons. We also offer many tours for children as young as under 1, as well as camping programs. Our staff have over 15 years of experience in nature activities. We're looking forward to meeting you!
Minami・Mugi・Shishikui
Culture
Eco-tours
Food Making
JPY 3,300
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See and Experience some of the Attractions of Naruto City (8 hours)
Explore some of the wonders that Naruto City has to offer! Places to Visit: ◆Naruto Whirlpools ◆Naruto Skyline Road ◆Seto Inland National Park ◆Eska Hill Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 90,000 Yen Group of 2: 45,000 Yen Group of 3: 30,000 Yen Group of 4: 22,500 Yen Age: 10 & Older Time Needed: Approx. 8 Hours ＊The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc. ＊Weather conditions might affect outdoor scenes and the availability of the whirlpool boat ride.
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Culture
JPY 22,500
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Tokushima Goshuin Stamp Journey! (Tokushima City Version ②)
Visit 3 different shrines in Tokushima City and receive their goshuin stamp! ※ Transportation will be by taxi. 【Omiwa Shrine】 The symbol of this shrine is a rabbit, and many rabbit statues and figures can be found on the shrine grounds. The shrine is also often decorated with seasonal items, such as Japanese-style umbrellas or wind chimes. The goshuin change monthly and can features rabbits, dragons, and more. 【Kokoroyoshi Shrine】 This shrine features monthly and other types of goshuin. There are always many different goshuin to choose from, so enjoy finding your favorite! 【Lunch: KIRA HOUSE】 Lunch is an "adult's kid meal" featuring karage, roast beef, fried shrimp, rice, and a salad. (1 Item/2 Types) 【Shisho Shrine】 This shrine retains many of its traditions. Some of the past goshuin have featured things such as beautifully drawn dragons. 【Points of Caution】 ※ For each shrine, a goshuin fee of up to 500 yen is included in this tour's price. ※ If the shrine priest/person in charge of goshuin is not available, a paper goshuin may be received in place of a goshuin directly written in the goshuincho. ※ If you are unable to receive a goshuin from one of the shrines, that portion of the fee will be refunded. ※ Any additional goshuin purchases not included in this tour's price (500 yen worth per shrine) must be purchased with your own money. ※ The pictures featured on this tour page are only an example. Many of the shrine's goshuin change monthly or seasonly. 【Tour Details】 Minimum Number of Participants: 3 Price (Per Person): 20,000 Yen
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Culture
JPY 20,000
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Explore Tokushima's Temple Town & Enjoy Traditional Sweets!【Guided Walking Tour】
Enjoy some of Tokushima's most representative sightseeing spots alongside some hidden gems in this walking tour. This half-day tour allows participants to experience Tokushima's shrines, traditional performing arts, an old town area, and historical sweets together with an English speaking guide. ♪ 【Bizan Tenjin Shrine】 After a short walk up a flight of stairs, one is greeted with brilliant red color that adorns the buildings of Tenjin Shrine. Dedicated to the God of Learning, Sugawara no Michizane, this shrine attracts many students hoping for some luck to pass their entrance exams. On the shrine grounds lies a cow statue known as the “Cow of Wisdom”. It’s said that the more you rub it, the more wisdom you will gain! In addition to being a shrine for learning, Tenjin Shrine is also known as a power spot for matchmaking! Near the western area of the shrine lies a large rock that is fondly known as “Himemiya-san” and it is said to be effective for match making, safe pregnancies, and for recovery from sickness. This shrine is also known for its beautiful goshuin shrine stamps that change monthly. Stamps featuring seasonal flowers, bamboo covered in snow, and more attract visitors from across the country eager to add to their goshuin collection. 【Awa Odori Kaikan: Shopping & Museum】 While waiting for the dance performance to start, peruse some uniquely Tokushima souvenirs at the shop “Aredeyo”. Aredeyo offers a wide array of souvenirs, such as local sweets and food products, indigo dyed scarves and shirts, traditional otaniyaki pottery, and more. Awa Odori Museum The museum on the 3rd floor teaches visitors about the history of the Awa Odori, with costumes, instruments, etc. on display. 【Awa Odori Dance Performance】 Enjoy watching a spectacular Awa Odori dance performance, a traditional performance art of Tokushima with over 400 years of history! The group will show visitors how the dance style has changed throughout the years, explain about the role of each instrument, and then finally give a mini lesson on the dancing basics. After this lesson, it’s time for the audience to join in on the fun! Don’t worry if you’re not good at dancing – as they say in Tokushima, “Those who dance are fools. Those who watch are fools. If both are fools, you may as well dance!” 【Tokushima Ramen Lunch】 Enjoy Tokushima's specialty "Tokushima Ramen" for lunch. 【Kinryosui Spring】 The beautifully clear waters of the Kinryosui Spring were once beloved by the lords of the Tokushima Domain in times past. Nowadays, residents of Tokushima still stop by to gather some of the delicious water. (Bring a water bottle and try some of the water for yourself!) 【Stroll Around Temple Town (Teramachi)】 Long ago, Hachisuka Iemasa, the domain leader, gathered various temples and shrines and brought them to this area, where they played an important role in the resident’s lives. Enjoy viewing the old shrines and temples that line the streets, and soak up the quiet and peaceful atmosphere. 【Wadanoya】 It’s said that long ago when the lord of the Tokushima domain completed the Tokushima Castle, a sweet called “Taki no Yaki Mochi” was served at the celebration. This sweet, made using the lord’s beloved Kinryosui Spring water, quickly became a hit. More than 400 years later, we can still enjoy the lord’s favorite treat at Wadanoya. In addition to Taki no Yaki Mochi, Wadanoya offers drinks made with Tokushima flavors, including Awa Bancha Tea, Sudachi citrus juice, yamamomo bayberry juice, and more. They also have seasonal items, such as shaved ice in the summer and zenzai (red bean soup with mochi) in the winter. The best part though? The view is absolutely gorgeous! This tiny café features a small waterfall with koi and seasonal flowers, and the traditional Japanese scenery makes it so easy to relax and enjoy some tea and sweets. 【Price per Person】 12,000 Yen 【Minimum Number of Participants】 2 【Meeting Place】 In Front of Tokushima Station 【Inquiries】 Air Travel Tokushima, Inc. TEL：088-600-8560 E-mail：aitripper@air-travel.jp
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Culture
Japanese Food
Sweets
Hiking/Walking
JPY 12,000
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【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Temples 1 and 2
Learn about various historical objects on the temple grounds of the first two temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route - Temple 1, Ryōzenji and Temple 2, Gokurakuji Places to Visit: ◆Temple 1, Ryōzenji ◆Temple 2, Gokurakuji Temple 1 Ryōzenji: If you are starting your journey here, perhaps you might be interested in buying some of the accouterments – such as sedge hat, wooden staff, pilgrimage book, white pilgrim coat etc. – that people get to show that are making this journey as a henro (Shikoku pilgrim). Enjoy the atmosphere, feel free to take photographs (except for the innermost part of the main hall where the altar is), look at the various buildings and statues, and perhaps take your pilgrimage book to the temple office to have it signed and stamped. Temple 2 Gokurakuji: As you walk along the path, you will most likely be impressed by the large garden on your left and various statues on your right. After you turn left and walk a little bit further, you will see a huge tree in front of you. It is called “the cedar of long life” (chōmei sugi) and is believed to have been planted by the well-known 8th century Buddhist priest Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi, who founded many of the temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. Next, go up a flight of steep stone stairs to see the main hall and Daishi hall, the latter which has a statue of Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi enshrined inside. In front of the Daishi hall are many amulets and wooden tablets related to the safe birth of a child. In fact, the large statue of Kōbō Daishi was given to the temple by a woman during the Meiji period (1868-1912) when she had a safe childbirth after visiting this temple. Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 25,000 Yen Group of 2: 12,500 Yen Group of 3: 8,000 Yen Group of 4: 6,250 Yen Age: 10 & Older Walking Distance: Approx. 4 km Time Needed: Approx. 4 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Culture
Hiking/Walking
JPY 6,250
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Iya Soba Noodle Making & Meal
Enjoy traditional soba noodle making in the midst of Oku-Iya Valley's grand nature! Afterwards, relax and enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal made with local plants. Iya soba is a local dish made from buckwheat flour harvested in the Iya Region. The Iya Region is able to produce good quality buckwheat flour thanks to the temperature differences that occur between daytime and nighttime. Through this activity, experience grinding buckwheat flour on a millstone that has been in use for nearly 80 years. While you're grinding the buckwheat, the kind grandmother will sing a folk song that was sung in the past while this type of work was done. Meals are served in a dining room with a sunken hearth. Enjoy the freshly prepared and boiled soba together with your meal. The taste of soba made using traditional methods that you grinded yourself is truly special! This special experience is something that you can only find here. We look forward to seeing you here in Oku-Iya!
Iya・Oboke・Ikeda
Culture
Food Making
JPY 3,600
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Indigo Dyeing at a Traditional Weaving Company! [T-shirt Dyeing + Factory Tour]
Try your hand at "Aizome Indigo Dyeing", a traditional craft of Tokushima! ♢♢♢About Nagao Orifu ♢♢♢ A long-established weaver since 1897, Nagao Orifu handles the entire process, from dyeing, to weaving, and finally to the finishing touches. In addition to manufacturing fabrics known as "Awa Shijira-ori," which is our primary product line, we also deal in indigo-dyed products. Among them, shijiraori dyed with natural Awa Indigo Dye is called "Awa sho-an shijira-ori," and is designated as a traditional handicraft. Nagao Orifu's "Awa Shijira-ori" and "Aizome Indigo" products are created by combining the beautiful water and indigo of Tokushima and the skills of our craftsmen. Here you can dye your own original T-shirt with real indigo. Please visit us for a hands-on experience. - - - - - - - - - - - Plan Details- - - - - - - - - - - - - - ♢ Indigo Dyeing Activity: T-shirt (1) Dye a T-shirt with real indigo. Our staff will help you achieve the desired pattern and color intensity. You can take home your dyed T-shirt after the activity ♢Awa Shijira-ori Factory Tour Tour the historic wooden architecture and experience hand weaving, which is a rarity in modern times. 【NAGAO ORIFU】 189 Kokufu-cyo Wada, Tokushima City, Tokushima, 779-3121
Tokushima (City Center)・Naruto
Hands-on Crafts
Traditional Crafts
Culture
JPY 5,000
Recommended Tourist Information
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Awa Dance Festival (Awa Odori)
Awa Odori (Awa Dance) is a world-class traditional performing art with a history of over 400 years. In Tokushima City, the eve of the festival is held on August 11 every year. Then, from the 12th to the 15th, a wild dance is performed at stages and other locations throughout the city. Awa Odori is one of the most popular festivals in Japan, attracting many tourists from not only within Japan, but also from abroad. The synchronized dancing to the sounds of shamisen, gongs, drums, and other musical instruments is truly breathtaking.
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Iya Vine Bridges
In the secluded area of the Iya Valley lies a vine bridge made from hardy kiwi, which is 45 meters long and 2 meters wide and is 14 meters above the water. The beautiful shape of the bridge is reflected in the clear water of the Iya River that lies below, creating a scene that is in harmony with nature and shows different colors throughout the four seasons. Designated as a National Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property, it is now a popular sightseeing area.
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Yamainudake
This mountain is located 997 meters above sea level in the center of Kamikatsu Town. It is one of the best places to see moss in Tokushima Prefecture from July to October. It is a natural sanctuary where deep green moss grows in clusters on the rocks, creating an almost mysterious atmosphere. It takes about an hour's walk from the nearest parking lot, and you should make sure to wear comfortable walking clothes as the paths are steep because they used to be training paths for mountain priests in the past.
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Yakuoji Temple
This is the last temple in Tokushima Prefecture that is a part of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage route, and it is famous as a temple to ward off bad luck or misfortune. There are three sets of stairs - one with 33 stairs, one with 42 stairs, and one with 61 stairs. These are the years of misfortune for women, men, and those who turn 60 (61 in the old calendar) respectively . By climbing and leaving a coin on each step, it's said that one can prevent misfortune from occurring during that year.
