Tokushima Shore Excursion

Tokushima on Shikoku Island offers a vibrant mix of natural wonders, living traditions, and artisan culture. This excursion highlights the region’s best-known experiences:

• Ōnaruto Bridge Walkway (大鳴門橋遊步道) — Stroll along the glass-floored walkway under the Great Naruto Bridge for thrilling views of the famous Naruto Whirlpools, a natural tidal spectacle.
   
• Awa Odori Kaikan (阿波舞會館) — Discover Tokushima’s signature dance, the spirited Awa Odori, with live performances, costumes, and even a chance to join the fun.
   
• Indigo Dyeing Studio (藍染藝術館體驗) — Learn the craft of indigo dyeing, a Tokushima specialty, and create your own hand-dyed textile to take home as a unique souvenir.
   

This excursion offers a perfect blend of dramatic scenery, cultural immersion, and hands-on creativity, making it one of the most engaging day trips from port.

09:00 – Pickup at Tokushima Port

Meet your private driver/guide at the cruise terminal. Get an overview of Tokushima’s unique role in Shikoku’s history and culture before heading out to your first stop.

09:30 – 11:00 – Ōnaruto Bridge Walkway & Naruto Whirlpools (大鳴門橋遊步道)

Arrive at the Great Naruto Bridge, which spans the Naruto Strait, famous for its natural whirlpools caused by tidal currents. Walk along the Uzu no Michi glass-floored walkway suspended 45 meters above the swirling sea. Look directly down to see the whirlpools below and learn about the tidal phenomenon through exhibits at the viewing hall. On clear days, the views stretch across the Seto Inland Sea and Awaji Island.

11:15 – 12:30 – Drive Back Toward Tokushima + Lunch

Head back toward Tokushima city with a stop for lunch. Enjoy local specialties such as Tokushima ramen (soy-based broth topped with pork, egg, and green onion) or fresh seafood caught from the Naruto Strait. Your guide may also suggest seasonal dishes flavored with sudachi citrus, Tokushima’s signature fruit.

13:00 – 14:30 – Awa Odori Kaikan (阿波舞會館)

Arrive at the Awa Odori Kaikan, a cultural center dedicated to Tokushima’s world-famous dance festival. Visit the exhibition hall to see colorful festival costumes, instruments, and historical displays. Then watch a live Awa Odori dance performance, with energetic drumming, shamisen, and singing. Visitors are often invited to join a short workshop to learn the dance steps, making this an interactive and memorable cultural highlight.

14:45 – 16:15 – Indigo Dyeing Studio Experience (藍染藝術館)

Tokushima is the birthplace of Japan’s most beautiful indigo dyeing tradition, known as aizome. Visit a local workshop where artisans demonstrate how natural indigo leaves are transformed into dye. Try your hand at making your own indigo-dyed handkerchief, scarf, or textile piece, which you can take home as a unique souvenir. This hands-on activity lets you experience a centuries-old craft firsthand. 

16:30 – 17:00 – Return to Tokushima Port

Relax on the drive back with optional time for a quick local snack or souvenir shop stop before boarding your cruise.