A trip to the unexplored region of Tokushima! A moving experience with Naruto’s whirlpools and nature

Welcome to the fascinating Naruto area of Tokushima!

The city of Naruto, located in the northern part of Tokushima Prefecture, is world famous for Naruto’s whirlpools, one of Japan’s most famous natural wonders. I myself visited the area several years ago and was captivated by its spectacular scenery. The huge whirlpools created by the ebb and flow of the tide are the attraction of this place where Tokushima Island and Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture are connected across the Naruto Straits. There are many foreign tourists, and TripAdvisor reviews are full of excitement. It is only about an hour’s drive from Tokushima Airport, making it easily accessible and the perfect starting point for a trip to Shikoku.

The best part of a cruise is experiencing the Naruto whirlpools up close and personal.

I recommend a cruise experience on the Uzushio tidal wave sightseeing boat. Watching the whirlpools from the boat is truly a moment to experience the dynamism of nature. If you aim for the period of high tide when the current is fast, you may be able to see the whirlpools with a diameter of over 20 meters. On my trip, I visited during the spring high tide and was thrilled by the thrill of sailing a boat close to the whirlpool. I will never forget the splashing of the waves against the wind and the roar of the whirlpool. English guidance is available for foreigners. To book a cruise, please visit the official website. At the nearby Naruto Park, viewing the whirlpools from the observation deck is nice, but on board is more immersive.

Hiking Course to Enjoy Tokushima’s Nature

For a deeper appreciation of Tokushima’s nature as well as the whirlpools, try walking the walking paths in Naruto Park. The Onaruto Bridge Walkway is a unique spot where you can walk under the bridge and look into the whirlpools from a height of 45 meters above the sea level. The bridge is popular among families and couples, according to TripAdvisor reviews. Furthermore, if you go to the nearby Awa no Tsuchibashira, a group of strange rock formations, you can enjoy a view that resembles the Grand Canyon of the United States. Tokushima’s topography has been affected by volcanic activity and is dotted with such unique natural features. Many of the hiking courses are only one to two hours long, so they are recommended even for hiking beginners.

Local gourmet food will make your trip more satisfying.

The highlight of a trip to Tokushima is the local gourmet food. In the Naruto area, dishes using Naruto sea bream are superb. The sea bream sashimi I had at a local seafood restaurant I visited was fresh, sweet, and unforgettable. Tokushima ramen is also famous for its pork-based soup with a sweet and spicy flavor, and a Google Trend search for “Tokushima gourmet” will bring up hits for food at events related to the Awa Odori dance, but it is the marine products such as these that are enjoyed on a daily basis. An increasing number of restaurants offer English menus for foreign tourists.

A Peek into Awa Odori as a Cultural Experience

Tokushima in summer is known for its Awa Odori dance, which can be experienced at related facilities even during the off-season. At the Awa Odori Kaikan, visitors can watch a traditional dance show, and I tried dancing in a participatory workshop. TripAdvisor gives it high marks as a cross-cultural experience. It is located in Tokushima City, a 30-minute drive from Naruto, so it is easy to combine in one day. Exposure to these cultures will add depth to your trip.

Accommodation and Access Tips for a Comfortable Trip

For lodging, resort hotels near Naruto Park are convenient. The Naruto Resort where I stayed had an ocean view, perfect for observing the morning whirlpools. It also offers a full range of services for foreigners. Access is smooth by taking the Shinkansen bullet train to Okayama Station and taking a bus or flying to Tokushima Airport. Google Trend’s “Tokushima Travel Plan” shows that the Shikoku loop route is popular, so it is a good idea to start in Tokushima and extend your visit to Kagawa or Kochi.

Private Wisdom Summary

The Naruto area of Tokushima is truly a hidden gem, a blend of natural wonder and culture. From my own experience, the whirlpool cruise is a highlight that should not be missed, and the excitement I got from it blows away the stress of everyday life. With the increasing number of foreign tourists, don’t forget to make reservations in advance and check the weather. The wisdom gained through these trips will enrich your life. Please use it as a reference for your next adventure.