English
Discover the Magic of Indigo: A Special Course in Tokushima
Have you ever heard the term “Japan Blue”? During the Meiji era, British visitors to Japan used this phrase to describe the deep indigo color of traditional dyed garments worn by people across the country. The primary material for indigo dyeing, called “sukumo”, is predominantly produced in Tokushima.
The fertile soil brought by the Yoshino River’s flooding made Tokushima an ideal region for growing indigo plants. Ningyo Joruri puppet theater flourished thanks to the economic power of indigo merchants. It’s also believed that Awa Odori, Tokushima’s famous dance, originated from dances brought back by these merchants as they traveled across Japan for business.
In this feature, we’ll introduce a model travel plan that lets you explore Tokushima through the theme of “indigo,” an indispensable part of the region’s cultural heritage.
■■ DAY1 ■ ■
09:00 Indigo Dyeing Experience at Ai-no-Yakata
Participate in a hands-on indigo dyeing workshop and discover the beauty of indigo craftsmanship. Bring your own items like handkerchiefs or T-shirts to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece!
■ Histrical Museum AI NO Yakata (japanese）
https://ainoyakata.jp/
■ 아와아이의 역사와 문화 호기심을 이끌어내는 '아이노 야카타'（한국어）
https://www.east-tokushima.jp/feature/detail.php?id=231
■「藍之館」，開啟您對阿波藍歷史和文化的好奇心（繁体字）
https://www.east-tokushima.jp/feature/detail.php?id=244
11:30 Lunch｜ Japanese Traditional house at Cafe Origin
Enjoy a healthy lunch made with locally sourced ingredients. A relaxing break in a stylish atmosphere after the indigo dyeing experience. Enjoy a meal at Japanese tradional house.
13:00 The Tanaka Familiy Residence
Explore the historic indigo merchant’s residence and learn about the deep roots of indigo culture. Admire the traditional architecture and beautifully preserved gardens.
"Tanaka Family Residence" A testament to the prosperity of Awa's indigo merchants.（Japanese）
https://www.east-tokushima.jp/feature/detail.php?id=86
14:30 Takajizo
Visit this breathtaking viewpoint where you can feel the harmony of nature and history in Tokushima. This Jizo statue serves as a marker of the water level reached during flooding of the Yoshino River. It is said that the floodwaters rose to around the height of the pedestal of this statue.
Address：82 Miyano-kita, Higashikuroda, Kokufu Town, Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture
https://g.co/kgs/uWh8sZP
16:00 Yoshino River Sunset Cruise
The sky dyed in vivid red and the sunset reflecting on the Yoshino River create a breathtaking view.
18:00 Dinner at Konyamachi Yoshikono
Savor the flavors of Tokushima with delicious local dishes made from fresh ingredients. A perfect way to enjoy the regional cuisine of Awa. Tokushima offers a wide variety of local sake! A must-try for Japanese sake enthusiasts.
■■ DAY2 ■ ■
09:30 Puppet Theater Experience at Awa Jurobe Yashiki
A rare opportunity to experience Tokushima's traditional art of "Awa Ningyo Joruri" (puppet theater). Try your hand at controlling the puppets and appreciate the intricate skills of the performers. After the performance, you can take a commemorative photo with the puppets.
■ Awa Ningyo Joruri: How Tokushima is Keeping Japan’s Traditional Art of Puppetry Alive（English）
https://www.east-tokushima.jp/en/explore/detail.php?id=53
■아와 닌교 조루리(Awa Ningyo Joruri) 목각인형 : 도쿠시마가 일본의 전통 인형극 예술을 대하는 자세（한국어）
https://www.east-tokushima.jp/feature/detail.php?id=227
■阿波人形淨琉璃：德島如何保持日本傳統木偶藝術的活力（繫体字）
https://www.east-tokushima.jp/feature/detail.php?id=236
11:30 Lunch｜Tokushima Ramen at Inotani
Delight in Tokushima's signature ramen. The rich broth and sweet-and-savory pork slices make this dish a must-try!
WEB ：http://www.inotani.jp/instanthp/page01.html
Addres：4-25 Nishidaiku-machi, Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture
https://g.co/kgs/zKDgF5p
15:00 Awa Dance Experience at Awaodori Kaikan
Learn the traditional Awa Dance from professionals and immerse yourself in Tokushima's vibrant culture. An unforgettable experience! Those who perform an enchanting dance might just be in for a delightful surprise...!
■ Awaodori Kaikan: Learn All About Tokushima’s Famous Awa Odori Dance
https://www.east-tokushima.jp/en/explore/detail.php?id=61
■토쿠시마시에서의 하루를 시작하신다면 다음의 다섯가지 체험을 경험해보세요.（한국어）
https://www.east-tokushima.jp/feature/detail.php?id=228
■想在德島市度過美好的早晨或美好的一天嗎？為您推薦五個好去處（繁体字）
https://www.east-tokushima.jp/feature/detail.php?id=234
16:00 Mt. Bizan Ropeway Ride
Enjoy a panoramic view of Tokushima City from the summit of Mt Bizan. A stunning finale to your journey.
Addres：2-20 Shinmachi-bashi, Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture,
https://g.co/kgs/vWB2QQC
17:00 End of the Tour
There are plenty of souvenirs available near Tokushima Station. Be sure to pick up something special as a memento of your trip!
Immerse Yourself in Indigo Culture in Tokushima’s Eastern Area for 2 days.
Experience the charm of "Ai no Furusato" (the birthplace of indigo) in Tokushima while wearing your personally dyed indigo creations. Enjoy a unique blend of cultural, historical, and scenic highlights in this unforgettable 1-night, 2-day journey!
Would you like me to expand on this with details from the itinerary?
If you're interested in our content, feel free to contact us!
East Toksuhima Tourism Authority
Email ：contact@east-tokushima.jp
Instagram：www.instagram.com/east_tokushima
WEB ：www.east-tokushima.jp/en/