Tokushima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide

About this experience

This private tour is designed for travelers visiting Tokushima by cruise ship. Your government-licensed, English-speaking guide and private vehicle pick you up at Tokushima Port or hotels near the port, a relaxed, efficient way to explore the best of Tokushima in a day. Tokushima, on the island of Shikoku, is famous for the spectacular Naruto whirlpools, among the largest tidal whirlpools in the world. Admire them from a sightseeing boat or the thrilling Uzu-no-Michi glass walkway beneath the Onaruto Bridge. The region is also home to the Otsuka Museum of Art, the lively 400-year-old Awa Odori dance, and a centuries-old indigo (aizome) dyeing tradition you can try yourself. This fully customizable 6-hour private tour lets you choose 2-3 highlights with your guide - the whirlpools, Mount Bizan views, Tokushima Castle, the first temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, or local Tokushima ramen. Your friendly local guide tailors the day to your interests.

What to expect

1. Stop 1 · 45min

   Witness the spectacular Naruto whirlpools, among the largest tidal whirlpools in the world, formed in the Naruto Strait beneath the Onaruto Bridge. Your guide takes you to see these powerful swirling waters up close - an unforgettable natural wonder of Tokushima.

2. Stop 2 · 1h

   Explore the Otsuka Museum of Art, Japan's largest exhibition space, home to over 1,000 full-size ceramic reproductions of famous Western masterpieces - from the Sistine Chapel ceiling to works by Monet, Van Gogh and da Vinci. A unique highlight of any Tokushima visit.

3. Stop 3 · 30min

   Ride up to the summit of Mount Bizan, the symbol of Tokushima City, for sweeping panoramic views over the city, the Yoshino River and the Seto Inland Sea. A relaxing scenic stop and a perfect spot for photos with your guide.

4. Stop 4 · 40min

   Discover Tokushima's world-famous Awa Odori dance culture. At the Awa Odori Kaikan you can watch energetic live performances of this 400-year-old folk dance and even try the playful moves yourself with the dancers - a fun, lively cultural highlight.

5. Stop 5 · 45min

   Try a hands-on traditional Awa indigo (aizome) dyeing workshop at Ai no Yakata in Aizumi. Tokushima has been famous for its rich blue indigo for centuries - create your own beautiful indigo-dyed cloth to take home as a unique souvenir.

6. Stop 6 · 30min

   Visit Ryozen-ji, the first of the 88 sacred temples on the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage. Your guide explains the history and traditions of the pilgrimage as you stroll the peaceful temple grounds, main hall and garden.

7. Stop 7 · 30min

   Stroll through Tokushima Central Park, site of the historic Tokushima Castle ruins. Admire the impressive stone walls, peaceful grounds and the beautiful Senshukaku Japanese garden while your guide shares the area's samurai-era history.

8. Stop 8 · 30min

   Walk the Uzu-no-Michi, a 450-meter walkway built beneath the great Onaruto Bridge. Through glass floor panels you can look straight down at the roaring Naruto whirlpools swirling in the strait below - a thrilling and unforgettable viewpoint.

Tour & ticket options

Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.

Meeting & pickup

• The guide will be waiting for you at the port, holding a name board with your name on it.

End point

• The guide will be waiting for you at the port, holding a name board with your name on it.

Before you go

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.