Track my journey through all 88 temples of the Shikoku Henro pilgrimage. Explore temple details, locations, and insights from my personal visits.

Just behind Tokushima Station, the Tokushima Castle Ruins offer panoramic city views and a peaceful walk through historic grounds. I followed an unmarked trail to the hilltop, explored the ruins, and visited the Omotegoten Garden below — a National Historic Site since 1957 — before catching my train.

An overnight ferry from Tokyo to Tokushima became one of the calmest and most refreshing parts of my Japan trip. With an onboard onsen, quiet lounges, sunrise views over the water, and a full digital detox, the journey turned into the perfect break from constant movement. It’s a long ride, but one I’d happily take again.

The Ai Yoshinogawa Trolley Train offers open-air views of Tokushima’s rivers, mountains, and countryside. With onboard commentary, a student welcome at Sadamitsu, and a delicious Awaodori chicken bento, this charming two-and-a-half-hour ride to Awa-Ikeda is a unique way to experience rural Shikoku.

Naruto, Shikoku, is famous for its dramatic whirlpools in the Naruto Strait. Visit the Uzu-no-Michi Walkway, take a sightseeing boat, explore Naruto Park, and enjoy local cuisine while discovering this scenic and cultural hotspot.

Experience Tokushima’s famous Awa Odori dance year-round at Awa Odori Kaikan, then ride the ropeway to Bizan Park for panoramic city and sea views.

Iya Valley in Tokushima is famous for its historic vine suspension bridges, dramatic mountain scenery, and cliffside viewpoints. Crossing the iconic Kazurabashi bridge and visiting the quirky Peeing Boy statue offers a memorable look into one of Shikoku’s most remote landscapes.

Oboke Gorge in Tokushima offers dramatic canyon views carved by the Yoshino River, misty mountain scenery, and a surprising touch of folklore with its nearby Yokai Village. This scenic walk explores viewpoints, rural mountain roads, and one of Shikoku’s most beautiful river valleys.