This Tokushima hidden gem travel guide takes you from the thrilling Iya Bridge to the leisurely Oboke Gorge cruise, offering breathtaking views of Tsurugi Mountain and a deep dive into the traditional mountain village of Ochiai. This fun-filled Tokushima trip will explore the natural and cultural beauty of Shikoku, perfect for adventure and history buffs. You'll experience the soothing relaxation of Iya Onsen, stroll through the wonders of nature, and challenge yourself with Japan's longest zipline. This journey will not only test your limits but also completely relax your mind and body – a perfect adventure not to be missed.
Tokushima's Hidden Gems Travel Guide: Direct Flights to Tokushima, Easy Start!
Want to embark on a spontaneous adventure? Come on, let's fly straight to Tokushima and explore this hidden paradise in Shikoku! You might ask, what's there to see in Tokushima? Let me tell you, this place is definitely more interesting than you imagine, full of thrilling, exciting, and relaxing experiences, fulfilling all your travel fantasies in one go.
Greater Bay Area Airlines has launched direct flights from Hong Kong to Tokushima, a true blessing for those who prefer convenience. Starting November 16, 2024, there will be three direct flights per week, allowing you to comfortably travel directly to your destination without the hassle of transfers. Not only is the schedule well-planned, but the outbound flight won't leave you unable to get up in the morning, and the return flight won't be too late, perfectly suited to the pace of life for working professionals.
Iya Manqiao: Let the timid wait for you at home.
In western Tokushima lies a hidden gem called Iya, and the "Iya Vines Bridge" here is no ordinary bridge; it's one of Japan's three most famous hidden gems, its name alone enough to inspire adventure. This bridge is entirely constructed of vines and hangs 14 meters above the Iya River. Walking on it, the swaying sensation feels like walking on a bottomless abyss, as if you might fall in at any moment—of course, you won't, but that thrill is part of its appeal!
Standing on the bridge, surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery and with the sound of rushing water in your ears, the feeling is absolutely thrilling and exciting. Walking on the bridge, the vines beneath your feet sway with every step, and you'll find yourself holding on tighter than you imagined—a sensation that other attractions simply can't offer. For those who enjoy a challenge, the Iya Mandarin Pagoda is undoubtedly a perfect destination.
Dabu Gorge sightseeing cruise: thrills amidst tranquility
If the vine bridge makes your legs go weak, then...Cruise ships at Daibu GorgeIt's a place that will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated. The Yoshino River flows through it, and you can take a boat trip deep into canyons inaccessible on foot. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer offers lush greenery, autumn paints the landscape in vibrant colors, and winter brings snow – each season offers a unique beauty, guaranteeing you'll be captivated by the power of nature the moment you step off the boat.
The cruise ship glides slowly, and the captain will explain the history and formation process of the canyon, giving you a deeper understanding of this magnificent natural wonder. Here, you can truly feel at one with nature and enjoy a time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Iya Onsen: Say Goodbye to the Fatigue of Working Life
The hot springs of the Iya region are one of the secrets to beautiful skin. It's said that the sulfurous mineral springs and highly alkaline saline springs can soothe joint pain, treat frozen shoulder, and leave your skin refreshed! Moreover, the hot springs here are hidden in various natural environments, some even requiring a cable car to reach, such as the open-air baths at the bottom of the valley. Sitting in the warm spring water, surrounded by rolling valleys and a twinkling starry sky—isn't this a real-life dream trip?
Each hot spring boasts unique scenery, allowing you to relax your mind and body while enjoying the natural beauty. Whether you're looking to heal your body or simply indulge in pure enjoyment, Iya Onsen offers ultimate comfort and pleasure.
Kenzan: More Than Just Climbing
Mount Tsurugi, one of Japan's 100 most famous mountains, is 1,955 meters high, but it is actually very beginner-friendly because there is a cable car that can take you halfway up the mountain! Even if you are a "lazy city dweller" who usually sits in front of a computer, you can easily reach the top and enjoy the magnificent view of the starry sky and sea of clouds.
Climbing to the summit of Jianshan Mountain, you'll find the scenery breathtaking, especially on clear days, where distant mountains and a sea of clouds create a natural masterpiece. The night sky is particularly spectacular; far from the city's light pollution, the countless stars seem almost within reach.
Luohe Village: A Mountain Village Where Time Has Turned Back
On the way to Kenzan, you'll pass through a small village called Ochiai-shu-cho. Here, traditional architecture dating from the Edo to Showa periods is preserved. With an elevation difference of nearly 400 meters, the houses and stone walls are arranged in a charming, staggered pattern, making you feel as if you've stepped into a time tunnel. There are also some old-style houses available for rent, allowing you to truly experience life in a mountain village.
The village of Luohe at night is quiet and beautiful, with only the chirping of insects and the sound of the wind. This tranquility is a rare treat in the city.
－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－