Yoshinogawa

Yoshinogawa (吉野川) is a city in northern Tokushima Prefecture, named after the Yoshino River that flows through it. The city was formed in 2004 from the merger of several towns and sits as a quiet residential and agricultural area along the border with Kagawa Prefecture. It offers a relaxed slice of Shikoku life with riverside scenery, traditional craft workshops, and access to the Seto Inland Sea region via nearby rail connections. The best time to visit is spring (March–May) or autumn (October–November) for mild weather.

By Plane

Takamatsu Airport (TAK) is the nearest airport, about 45 minutes by car or bus. Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka is the major international gateway, reachable via train and bus connections through Takamatsu.

By Train

JR Tokushima Line runs through Yoshinogawa with several stations including Kamojima, the main one. Local trains connect to Tokushima city (about 30 minutes) and onward to Takamatsu and other Shikoku destinations.

By Car / Road

The Tokushima Expressway passes nearby. From Tokushima city, follow Route 192 or the expressway for about 30 minutes. Driving from Takamatsu takes about 40 minutes.

The city is best navigated by car or bicycle, as public bus service is limited. The flat riverside terrain makes cycling pleasant along the Yoshino River embankments.

• Yoshino River Riverside — Scenic embankments and walking paths along one of Shikoku's great rivers.

• Awa Washi Paper Workshops — The area is part of Tokushima's indigo-dyeing and washi paper region; some workshops welcome visitors.

• Local temples and shrines — Small, tranquil sites scattered around the rural landscape.

• Cycling along the river — Flat, quiet roads ideal for a leisurely ride.

• River fishing — The Yoshino River is known for sweetfish (ayu) fishing in summer.

• Agricultural tourism — Seasonal fruit picking at local farms in summer and autumn.

Small local restaurants serve Tokushima-style ramen (pork-bone broth with raw egg), yakitori, and set meals featuring river fish. Seasonal vegetables and rice from local farms are staples.

Tap water is safe and refreshing. Local sake from Tokushima's breweries is available at shops. Green tea is served everywhere.

• Budget: Simple minshuku and guesthouses from ¥4,000–6,000 per night.
• Mid-range: Small business hotels in the Kamojima area, around ¥7,000–10,000.
• Upscale: Limited upscale options; most visitors stay in Tokushima city and day-trip.

Local products include aizome (indigo-dyed) textiles, fresh produce from farms, and handmade washi paper. The roadside market near Kamojima Station sells regional specialties.

• Tokushima City — 30 minutes east by train, home to Awa Odori, the castle ruins, and the Awa Shrine.
• Takamatsu — About 1 hour north, with Ritsurin Garden and ferry connections to Naoshima.
• Miyoshi / Iya Valley — Directly west, with gorges, vine bridges, and mountain scenery.
• Mima — Neighboring town with historic indigo-dyeing districts.