6 Recommended Tourist Spots for Winter Tokushima Travel – Enjoy Tokushima Even in the Cold

When the cold winter makes it feel too much effort to go out, why not seize the opportunity to discover something enjoyable? With a little courage, you might find delightful experiences waiting for you.

Tokushima Prefecture offers many attractions that you can enjoy even in winter. You might be wondering, “Tokushima? Besides Awa Odori, is there anything else?” In fact, Tokushima is a region blessed with abundant nature. Hidden gems like the remote Iya region and the solemn Oasa Hiko Shrine provide a profound, reflective atmosphere, while the Otsuka Museum of Art is an excellent option unaffected by chilly weather. Here, we introduce six perfect spots for winter tourism in Tokushima.

1. A Remote Hidden Gem Accessible by Car: Oku-Yoya

Located in Miyoshi City, Tokushima, Oku-Yoya lies about an hour’s drive further into the mountains from the well-known Yoya area. This is truly a hidden gem—with narrow, winding roads and few visitors, it exudes an air of seclusion. For those seeking an even more authentic remote experience, winter is especially recommended. Do drive with extra caution on these winding mountain roads during the colder months.

Oku-Yoya is home to the Niju-Kazurabashi (Double Vine Bridge), which, unlike the more touristy Yoya Kazurabashi, remains less commercialized. You can cross and explore it repeatedly—the narrow planks, almost the width of an adult’s foot, add a thrilling element that might make even grown men’s legs tremble.

2. Swaying with Thrills! Yoya Gorge “Kazurabashi”

The famous Kazurabashi, popularized by television commercials, is located in Yoya Gorge in Miyoshi City, Tokushima. With beautiful seasonal scenery that enchants visitors year-round, winter is also a fantastic time to visit. The snow gently blanketing the bridge creates a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Due to its immense popularity during long holiday periods, you might have to wait in line during peak seasons. However, in winter the fewer visitors allow you to enjoy Kazurabashi at a leisurely pace.

Spanning approximately 14 meters above the river’s surface, its narrow wooden planks will have you gripping your shoes tightly—even though safety wires are in place, the thrill is undeniable. Be sure to wear shoes with good traction for snowy conditions.

3. World-Class Art Museum Tour: Otsuka Museum of Art

If you’d like to spend a relaxed winter day in Tokushima, look no further than the Otsuka Museum of Art in Naruto Town, Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture. This unique museum, known for having the highest admission fee in Japan, features meticulously crafted ceramic reproductions of world-famous artworks—none of the originals are on display.

Its collection includes life-sized replicas of masterpieces such as Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers,” Munch’s “The Scream,” and Picasso’s “Guernica,” among roughly 1,075 works by world-renowned artists.

One of its major attractions is the ability to view, touch, and photograph these exact-size replicas up close—an experience that is both interactive and unforgettable. In truth, one day isn’t enough to fully appreciate the vast collection of the Otsuka Museum of Art.

4. Big Event Featuring 30,000 Hina Dolls: Awa Katsuura Big Hina Matsuri

Started in 2001, the Awa Katsuura Big Hina Matsuri is a grand event held at the Doll Cultural Exchange Hall and various venues throughout Katsuura Town in Katsura District, Tokushima. The festival displays hina dolls—handed down as heirlooms from across Japan—from February through early April. During the event, approximately 30,000 hina dolls are exhibited, transforming Katsuura Town into a vibrant celebration of the Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival).

5. The Ichinomiya of Awa: Bustling Oasa Hiko Shrine with 230,000 New Year Visitors

Oasa Hiko Shrine, known locally as “Owasahan,” is a cherished local shrine in Awa that has been venerated for generations. As the most popular shrine for New Year’s first shrine visits in Tokushima, it attracts over 230,000 visitors—locals and tourists alike—during the first three days of January.

This historic shrine offers a refreshing, cleansing atmosphere that lifts the spirit after worship. In front of the shrine stands a majestic 1,000-year-old sacred camphor tree, adding to the shrine’s awe-inspiring ambiance. Enshrined here are Oasa Hiko-no-Mikoto, the guardian of industry and agriculture, and Sarutahiko-no-Mikoto, the protector of traffic safety and a ward against misfortune. After your visit, take a leisurely stroll around the shrine grounds to enjoy features like the Megane Bridge and the German Bridge.

6. Tokushima Zoo – See Animals Up Close

Located in Tokushima City, Tokushima Zoo is well known for its close-up animal encounters. The zoo is designed with well-planned, easily viewable exhibits that allow you to get close to the animals, and you can feel the genuine care and affection that the keepers have for them.

With an adjoining botanical garden and amusement park, it’s the perfect place for families to spend an entire day. Plus, admission is free for children in junior high school and under—a bonus for budget-conscious travelers.

◎Summary of Winter Tokushima Tourist Spots

Even in the coldest winter, Tokushima’s rich natural landscapes and attractions abound. Whether you’re marveling at snowy vistas, spending a leisurely day admiring art at a museum, or soaking in a hot spring in the secluded regions of Yoya or Oku-Yoya, Tokushima offers unforgettable experiences in every season.

For those seeking a close-up encounter with wildlife, Tokushima Zoo provides an excellent opportunity to see animals in action. Embrace the winter charm of Tokushima and enjoy all the unique attractions that this season has to offer!

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6 Recommended Tourist Spots for Winter Tokushima Travel – Enjoy Tokushima Even in the Cold