Things To Do
in Anan

Anan is a charming city located in Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku Island, Japan. Known for its rich history and beautiful natural surroundings, it serves as a gateway to various cultural experiences and outdoor activities. The city is famous for its traditional festivals, local crafts, and the stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.

With a blend of urban and rural landscapes, Anan offers visitors a unique glimpse into Japanese life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Anan's Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Anan City Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Then, head to the nearby Jizoji Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and then explore the Anan Port area, where you can witness the local fishing industry. Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the Seto Inland Sea.

evening
:

For dinner, try a local izakaya and sample various small dishes. End your day with a walk through Anan's shopping streets, enjoying the vibrant evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the nearby Mount Kamegamori, which offers stunning panoramic views. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy at the summit.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the Anan Onsen (hot spring) for a relaxing soak. Enjoy lunch at the onsen café, featuring local ingredients.

evening
:

Spend your evening at one of the local seafood restaurants, trying fresh catch from the Seto Inland Sea. Conclude your trip with a visit to Anan's night market, where you can sample local street food.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Meal at a Local Restaurant$10-$20
🍜Bowl of Ramen$8-$12
Coffee$3-$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1-$3
🏨Night at a Hotel$60-$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and traditions.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier may be an issue for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Some attractions may require travel outside the city.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Anan

Visit one of these nice places.

Anan Port

Capture stunning sunsets over the Seto Inland Sea and the bustling port activity.

Jizoji Temple

Beautiful gardens and traditional architecture provide a serene backdrop for photography.

Mount Kamegamori

The panoramic views from the summit offer breathtaking landscapes and are perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Anan

Anan offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of Shikoku Island, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local produce.

Anan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Awa-odori Chicken

A local specialty, this chicken is known for its tender meat and rich flavor, often grilled or served in hot pots.

Must-Try!

Anan Sushi

Fresh sushi made with locally-caught fish, prepared in traditional styles.

Tokushima Ramen

A unique ramen dish with a rich soy-based broth, often topped with char siu and green onions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Anan Morning Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh seafood, local fruits, and handmade crafts.

Yokocho Alley

A narrow street filled with various food stalls offering local street food like yakitori and takoyaki.

Climate Guide

Weather

Anan experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Spring (March-May) brings pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September-November) features cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, while winter (December-February) is mild, with average temperatures around 6-10°C (43-50°F). Rain is common in the summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in conversations and avoid loud noises.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always take off your shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Politeness in Interactions

Use polite language and gestures, such as bowing, to show respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Anan is considered a very safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's wise to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. In case of emergencies, local hospitals and clinics are equipped to handle various medical needs.

Tipping in Anan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude; good service is expected.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, credit cards are accepted in larger establishments. ATMs that accept foreign cards are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom throughout the city, making it a picturesque time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid weather; ideal for enjoying beach activities and local festivals.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colors make it a perfect time for hiking and outdoor exploration.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snowfall; great for enjoying hot springs and local comfort foods.

Nightlife Guide

Anan at Night

Anan's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but it offers a charming mix of local izakayas, bars, and karaoke joints. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed evening at an izakaya, savoring local dishes and drinks. Some areas have small night markets where street food and local delicacies can be sampled. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to connect with locals.

Hiking in Anan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kamegamori Trail

A popular hiking trail that leads to the summit of Mount Kamegamori, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mikuriya Mountain Trail

A scenic trail that winds through lush forests and offers various viewpoints for hikers to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Airports

How to reach Anan by plane.

Tokushima Awaodori Airport

Located approximately 15 km from Anan, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections. It's the primary airport serving the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Anan is moderately walkable, with many attractions located within a reasonable distance of each other. The city has sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, especially in the downtown region. However, some attractions, particularly those in the outskirts or in nature, may require transportation. Public transport options are available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Anan's population consists of long-time residents who maintain traditional lifestyles while adapting to modern influences.

Students

There is a significant student population due to local educational institutions, contributing to the city's youthful energy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in Japan, and local teams often attract enthusiastic fans.

Martial Arts

Traditional martial arts, such as judo and kendo, are popular in the region, with plenty of dojos available for practice.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Anan is generally light, making it easy to navigate the streets by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses, which connect various parts of the city. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, and bike rentals are available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Anan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian choices, but it's advised to check if dishes contain fish sauce or bonito.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's recommended to communicate dietary needs clearly to the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Anan are generally of high quality, with local hospitals and clinics providing a range of medical services. Emergency services are reliable, and many staff members at medical facilities can communicate in basic English. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance to cover any medical expenses during their stay.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide