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.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Ancient Temples
morning:Start your day with a peaceful visit to the serene Zentsu-ji Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Don't forget to try the delicious matcha flavored sweets sold near the temple.
afternoon:In the afternoon, take a stroll through Marugame Castle, a well-preserved hilltop castle with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Enjoy a traditional udon lunch at a nearby local eatery for a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine.
evening:For your evening, head to the lively Sanuki Club Street, where you can explore the bustling nightlife, visit Izakayas for local food and drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this lively district.
Nature Escapade
morning:Embrace the beauty of nature with a morning hike at Mount Bizan, offering picturesque views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Rejuvenate with a light breakfast at a quaint café nestled at the foot of the mountain.
afternoon:Explore Ritsurin Garden, a stunning traditional Japanese garden with tranquil ponds, lush greenery, and historic tea houses. Indulge in a traditional tea ceremony and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance.
evening:Experience the calming atmosphere of Yashima, a scenic plateau overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. Enjoy a leisurely evening walk and witness a captivating sunset before heading to a local bar for a refreshing drink and to unwind.
Cultural Delights
morning:Immerse yourself in Awa's rich cultural heritage with a visit to the Otsuka Museum of Art, housing a vast collection of meticulously recreated art pieces from around the world. After exploring, savor a delightful brunch at a cozy café nearby.
afternoon:Visit the Nagahama Beach, a serene coastal area perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the sea. Enjoy seafood delicacies at a seaside restaurant, offering freshly caught local specialties for a satisfying lunch.
evening:For a touch of culture, attend a traditional Noh theater performance at a local venue, experiencing the art of storytelling through dance, music, and elaborate costumes, followed by a stroll through the charming lantern-lit streets of the old town.
Foodie Adventure
morning:Embark on a culinary journey with a morning visit to the bustling Uwajima Fish Market, where you can marvel at a wide variety of freshly caught seafood and interact with local fishermen. Indulge in a delicious seafood breakfast freshly prepared at the market.
afternoon:Join a hands-on cooking class to learn the art of crafting delectable sushi and sashimi under the guidance of a skilled local chef. Enjoy your creations as part of a delightful lunch, accompanied by traditional Japanese side dishes and sake.
evening:Discover the vibrant nightlife scene at Uchiko, a charming town renowned for its atmospheric streets lined with traditional and charmingly lit paper-walled houses, offering a range of cozy bars and izakayas to enjoy an evening of local culinary delights and drinks.
Awa Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Awa Odori Chicken
A grilled chicken dish marinated in a special Awa soy sauce blend, available at local izakayas like Yakitori En.
Must-Try!
Sanuki Udon
Thick and chewy udon noodles served in a savory broth, widely popular at Sanuki Udon restaurants such as Yamagoe.
Tai-meshi
A fragrant dish of tender sea bream and seasoned rice, found at seafood specialty restaurants like Uwajima Suisan.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Awa Fish Market
An ideal destination to sample freshly caught seafood, including grilled fish on sticks and delectable seafood tempura.
Tokushima Ramen Stalls
Explore the bustling food stalls offering the local variation of ramen, featuring a rich pork broth and springy noodles.
Pet sitters in Awa
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!