No.1 in Production!
Sudachi (Japanese Citrus)

Sudachi, a specialty of Tokushima, boasts a 90% share of the national market. This refreshing, tangy citrus fruit is a behind-the-scenes hero that enhances a variety of dishes. It’s packed with more vitamin C than lemons and is full of nutrients!

Sudachi is also a star in Tokushima's local cuisine. It is used to make "sudachi rice" when paired with bonito flakes and soy sauce over freshly steamed rice, and it elevates dishes like "tarai udon" (udon served in a wooden bowl) and "Handa somen" (thin wheat noodles). It's also a perfect match with local chicken, "Awa-odori chicken," and grilled fish. Don’t forget, it often comes with sashimi orders, so be sure to enjoy it!

Moreover, the prefectural flower of Tokushima is the "sudachi flower," and the official mascot is "Sudachi-kun." Sudachi is truly the very identity of Tokushima.

No.1 in Production Again!
Shiitake Mushrooms

Tokushima's shiitake mushrooms are thick, fragrant, and proud to be the highest in production in Japan. What stands out is their texture. The larger shiitake mushrooms have a texture reminiscent of abalone. With their rich aroma, they are satisfying to eat.

These mushrooms are grown through "mushroom bed cultivation", where a nutrient-rich artificial substrate, such as rice bran, is used. Allowing you to enjoy delicious shiitake mushrooms all year round.

When purchasing shiitake mushrooms, look for ones with thick caps that are not too open, and those with clear, white gills on the underside – these are considered the best.

The No.1 Lowest Mountain in Japan!
Mount Benten

With an elevation of only 6.1 meters, Mount Benten in Tokushima is the lowest natural mountain in Japan, though there are some artificial low mountains in the country.

As you approach Mount Benten along Prefectural Road 210, you’ll see a clump of trees rising in the distance – that’s Mount Benten. Passing through the torii gate, you’ll encounter a slope that is steep enough to be called a hike. It’s a small mountain, one you can reach the summit of in about a minute, but there is still a sense of achievement.

At the summit, you’ll find a glass case displaying a summit certificate, amulets, goshuin (temple stamps), and omikuji (fortune slips). Known for its good luck, the mountain boasts a record of 0 accidents and 0 missing persons, so be sure to visit and take advantage of the blessings it offers!

No.1 in Production!
LEDs

Did you know that the world's top producer of LEDs, known for their long lifespan and low energy consumption, is located in Tokushima Prefecture? In fact, Tokushima is home to more than 150 manufacturers developing LED-based products, making it no exaggeration to say that Tokushima supports the global LED industry. Because of this, you can find many photogenic spots decorated with LED lights throughout Tokushima City.

One such example is the Fureai Bridge, which uses about 2,000 LEDs to illuminate the night. The design of the bridge, which features the folk tale "Awa Tanuki Gassen" (featured in article vol.170), is programmed to display eight different patterns representing the changing seasons, constellations, and more, creating a vibrant nightscape.

Check out the article from vol.72 here!
https://www.east-tokushima.jp/en/explore/detail.php?id=297

In addition to this, there are many other LED-lit spots in the city, so be sure to take a stroll through Tokushima City at night when you visit!

Finally.

How many of these "No.1" did you know about?
Come visit Tokushima Prefecture, home to many "No.1", and experience them for yourself!