Things To Do
in Awa
Awa is a historic district located in the city of Tokushima, Japan. It is known for its traditional Japanese architecture, including well-preserved old merchant houses. Visitors can explore the narrow streets lined with shops selling local crafts and snacks.
Awa also hosts the Awa Odori festival, one of Japan's largest and most famous traditional dance festivals.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Awa Odori Kaikan, where you can learn about the famous Awa Dance. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café nearby.
Explore the serene beauty of the Myozenji Temple, known for its stunning gardens. Grab a lunch packed with local specialties at a nearby eatery.
Head to the Awa Jinja Shrine for a peaceful evening walk. Treat yourself to dinner at a local izakaya, experiencing the flavors of Awa.
Begin your morning at the beautiful Awa Coast, taking in the sunrise views. Enjoy a beachside breakfast with fresh seafood.
Attend a local pottery workshop and create your own masterpiece. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beach café with a view.
After dinner at a coastal restaurant, take a stroll along the beach under the stars. Relax with a nightcap at a beach bar.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including coastlines and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and traditional festivals.
- Delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood and seasonal dishes.
- Friendly and hospitable local residents.
- A slower pace of life, making it a peaceful place to live or visit.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Fewer job opportunities, especially for non-Japanese speakers.
- Some areas can be prone to natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons.
- Higher cost of living in certain parts compared to rural areas.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to big cities.
Best Activities in Awa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic hike along the Awa-Nishikawa Gorge, surrounded by beautiful nature and the stunning Nishikawa River.
Spend a night under the stars and enjoy beachside camping at Awa Shirahama Beach, known for its picturesque coastline and clear waters.
Visit the Otsuka Art Museum, which houses a collection of exquisite replicated masterpieces, set within a beautiful garden and surrounded by scenic views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Awa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Awa
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic train ride offering excellent views of Awa, including the Yoshino River and surrounding countryside.
Cultural center with a rooftop observation deck providing panoramic views of Awa and the Awa Odori Kaikan.
Historic shrine with picturesque surroundings, ideal for capturing traditional Japanese architecture and natural beauty.
Food in Awa
Awa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A grilled chicken dish marinated in a special Awa soy sauce blend, available at local izakayas like Yakitori En.
Must-Try!
Thick and chewy udon noodles served in a savory broth, widely popular at Sanuki Udon restaurants such as Yamagoe.
A fragrant dish of tender sea bream and seasoned rice, found at seafood specialty restaurants like Uwajima Suisan.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Awa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An ideal destination to sample freshly caught seafood, including grilled fish on sticks and delectable seafood tempura.
Explore the bustling food stalls offering the local variation of ramen, featuring a rich pork broth and springy noodles.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Awa, Japan, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and bowing when greeting them.
When entering a home or certain traditional establishments, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect for the space and its occupants.
When dining in Awa, it is polite to say 'itadakimasu' before the meal to express gratitude and 'gochisousama deshita' after the meal to show appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Awa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Awa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Awa, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. Instead, excellent service is considered part of the standard expectation and is included in the prices.
In Awa, Japan, cash is the most common form of payment, and credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments. It's important to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting smaller businesses or more rural areas where credit card acceptance may be limited. Mobile payment methods like e-money and QR code payments are also gaining popularity.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Awa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Awa, Japan is in spring (March to May) when you can experience the cherry blossom season, known as Hanami. The weather is mild, and nature is in full bloom.
Summer (June to August) is a good time to visit Awa if you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities. The region experiences festivals and lively events during this period.
Autumn (September to November) brings colorful foliage to Awa, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather is cool and pleasant, and outdoor activities are still popular.
Winter (December to February) is the off-peak season in Awa, Japan. The temperatures are cold, and the region offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and enjoying hot springs.
Awa at Night
Hiking in Awa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape, with trails suitable for varying skill levels.
Known for its challenging trails and beautiful wilderness, this mountain is ideal for experienced hikers looking for a rewarding trek.
A serene and easy hiking trail that winds through lush forests, perfect for families and casual hikers.
A gentle hike in a park setting with cherry blossoms, offering a lovely experience during springtime.
Offers stunning natural scenery, waterfalls, and a moderate hiking trail that's great for a day trip.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Awa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Awa by plane.
Located approximately 45 kilometers from Awa, Kansai International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Japan, serving as a major hub for international flights.
Situated about 70 kilometers from Awa, Okayama Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient choice for travelers.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, it is located around 60 kilometers from Awa and mainly handles domestic flights, with some international connections.
Approximately 140 kilometers from Awa, Hiroshima Airport offers both domestic and a few international flights, connecting with several major cities in Asia.
Located around 160 kilometers from Awa, Nagoya's Chubu Centrair is an important international gateway in Japan, serving a variety of international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Awa, Japan has a population of approximately 25,000 residents, with various demographic groups including families, elderly individuals, and young adults.
A significant portion of Awa's demographic is elderly individuals, making up over 30% of the population, reflecting the aging trend in Japan.
The working-age population (ages 15 to 64) constitutes about 60% of Awa’s residents, contributing to the local economy.
Children and teenagers (ages 0 to 14) make up around 10% of the population, indicating a declining birth rate and low youth demographics.
Awa has a small percentage of foreign residents, primarily consisting of individuals from other Asian countries, working in agriculture and local businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Japanese wrestling sport where opponents try to push each other out of a circular ring.
One of the most popular sports in Japan, known for its passionate fans and local high school tournaments.
A widely played sport in Japan, with professional teams and successful national competitions.
Including disciplines like Judo, Kendo, and Karate, these are important aspects of Japanese culture and sports.
Increasingly popular, with a strong following at both school and collegiate levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Awa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Awa offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, such as vegetable tempura and tofu-based meals.
While options are limited, some restaurants like Mamehachi provide vegan-friendly dishes, including vegan ramen and seasonal vegetable plates.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can enjoy rice-based dishes like sushi, sashimi, and rice bowls at various dining establishments.