Tokushima Prefecture is relatively small and its rural landscape allows for quicker travel times than can be experienced in most places in Japan. The major cities in Tokushima Prefecture are located by the sea, in the northeast corner of the prefecture, while the mountainous areas of the region lie farther to the west. Travelers wanting to make their way out of the cities will need to plan for their transportation ahead of time, since taxis can be hard to come by in the countryside and the cost can often be prohibitive.
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Trains
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Trains
Tokushima Prefecture has a very convenient network of trains that connect the urban areas of the prefecture. The train lines run around the outskirts of the entire prefecture, letting passengers go from one side to the other in just under two hours. Individual tickets can also be purchased from vending machines, starting at 220 yen; the price will increase depending on the distance of the journey. Every station also has a convenient map with information about ticket costs for different destinations.
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Buses
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Buses
There are various buses that serve different purposes. When traveling inside the city, the local buses are an affordable option, with rides starting at 210 yen per trip. Bus tours are also popular with natives and visitors alike. For instance, the Bonnet Bus departs from the Awa-Ikeda Bus Terminal and takes visitors on a six-hour, guided tour through Oboke, Iwa Valley, Kazura Bashi, and other sites with prices starting at 7,500 yen per person. This tour only operates seasonally on certain days, and reservations must be made in advance.
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Boats
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Boats
For those sightseeing around the Iya Valley area, they can head over to the Oboke Ravine Pleasure Boat cruise. Only five minutes by car from JR Oboke Station, the cruise takes passengers on an hour-long excursion down the Yoshino River. This relaxing journey through nature only costs 1,080 yen for adults, while children can ride for just 540 yen.
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Taxis
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Taxis
Taxis can be a great way of getting around the city for those pressed for time and taxi drivers in Japan are notoriously friendly. However, taxi fares can often become quite expensive for rides exceeding more than a couple of kilometers. In Tokushima Prefecture, taxi fares start out at 560 yen for 1,500 meters or less with a 15-kilometer ride in rural districts priced at around 4,080 yen. The price goes up quite a bit based on distance, making it a less desirable option for travelers on a budget. Depending on the distance, it may be worth it to become familiar with the local buses, since places of interest can be quite spread out in the countryside.
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Car Rental
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Car Rental
Renting a car may not be an option for everyone. Drivers must be at least 18 years old and should have an international driver’s license recognized by Japan. That being said, renting a car for a day is an ideal way to explore Tokushima Prefecture outside the city. Rental rates at places like Nissan Rent a Car and ORIX Rent a Car generally start around 5,000 yen per day. 5,000 yen a day could turn out to be a better deal for people traveling with families; it also ensures freedom from a fixed schedule. Lastly, visitors should keep in mind that people drive on the left side of the road in Japan.
- Oboke Gorge Sightseeing Pleasure Cruise
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- Tokushima Pref. Miyoshishi Yamashirochounishiu 1520
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- 0883841211
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- 9:00-17:00 (last departure t…
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