Things To Do
in Awa
Awa is a picturesque city located in Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku Island, Japan. Known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Awa is famous for the Awa Odori dance festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and rivers, offering numerous outdoor activities and scenic views.
Awa also boasts a unique gastronomy scene, reflecting both traditional Japanese and local culinary influences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Awa Odori Hall to learn about the famous dance and its history. Next, explore the nearby Awa Jinja shrine, a serene place surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Head to the Awa Museum to discover local art and history. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Awa cuisine.
Conclude your day by participating in a local Awa Odori dance lesson, followed by dinner at a nearby izakaya where you can experience Japanese-style dining.
Start your day with a hike on the nearby Mount Tsurugi, known for its breathtaking views. After the hike, visit a local onsen (hot spring) to relax and unwind.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the base of the mountain or in a nearby park. Spend the afternoon exploring the scenic riverside or visiting local artisans.
Have dinner at a restaurant specializing in Tokushima ramen, followed by a leisurely stroll through the city center to experience the local atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Ramen Bowl | $8 |
| 🍣Sushi Plate | $15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🍻Beer | $5 |
| 🍏Local Fruit | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences, especially during festivals.
- Stunning natural landscapes for outdoor activities.
- Delicious local cuisine with unique flavors.
- Limited English signage can be challenging for some travelers.
- Public transport options may be less frequent compared to larger cities.
- Some attractions may require advance planning and reservations.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "お手洗いはどこですか？" - Where is the restroom?
- "これはいくらですか？" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Awa
Visit one of these nice places.
A serene shrine set against a backdrop of lush greenery, perfect for capturing traditional architecture and nature.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, a must-visit for breathtaking landscape photography.
A vibrant place full of colors and local produce, ideal for capturing the essence of Awa's agricultural scene.
Food in Awa
Awa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A unique variety of ramen featuring a rich, soy-based broth, often topped with raw egg and pork.
Must-Try!
Buckwheat noodles served cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth, often garnished with green onions and wasabi.
A dish featuring long, thin soba noodles served in a savory broth, often enjoyed during festivals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh local produce, handmade goods, and traditional snacks.
Try various street foods such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls) at stalls around the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bowing is a common greeting; using polite language and expressions is appreciated.
Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional accommodations.
Show respect for local customs, especially during festivals and religious ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Awa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan, and leaving money can be considered rude; excellent service is expected without extra gratuity.
Cash is widely accepted, and ATMs are available; credit cards are increasingly accepted but check in advance.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms bloom, attracting many visitors for hanami (flower viewing) parties and festivals.
Hot and humid with the famous Awa Odori festival taking place in August, providing a vibrant cultural experience.
Cooler temperatures with stunning fall foliage, making it a great time for hiking and outdoor activities.
Milder winters compared to other regions, ideal for visiting onsen, but occasional snowfall can occur in higher areas.
Awa at Night
Hiking in Awa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging yet rewarding trail leading to the summit of Mount Tsurugi, known for its stunning views and alpine scenery.
A scenic trail along the Yoshino River, ideal for leisurely hikes with picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Airports
How to reach Awa by plane.
Located approximately 15 km from Awa, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, providing convenient access to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are Japanese, with a strong emphasis on preserving traditional culture and community values.
A growing number of domestic and international tourists visit Awa, especially during festivals, contributing to the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Japanese sport, sumo wrestling has a significant following in Awa, with local tournaments held throughout the year.
Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, with local teams and schools fielding competitive teams and games drawing large crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Awa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Awa offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for hidden ingredients like dashi (fish stock).
While soba is made from buckwheat, gluten-free options may be limited; inquire at restaurants for alternatives.