In addition to its famous whirlpools,Naruto is full of magnificent sights! From historical buildings to stunning natural landscapes,let us be your guide!
German Bridge
Near Ōasahiko Shrine this bridge of 9.6 meters runs over a small stream in Maruyama Park in an area famous for its autumn leaves. The bridge was built for local residents by the German POWs living in the Bando POW Camp using stone masonry techniques that were completely new to Japan. Address: Oasacho Bando, Naruto-shi Inquiries: 088-684-1157 (Naruto City Tourism Promotion Dept.)
German House
This location was built in order to convey to future generations what occurred between the German POWs who lived at the Bando POW Camp in Oasacho and the locals during the three years from 1917 to 1920. Here you can visit and enjoy a variety of videos, models, dioramas, robots, as well as other displays. Address: Higashiyamada-55-2 Ōasachōhinoki, Naruto-shi TEL: 088-689-0099 Open: 9:30-17:00 (no entry after 16:30) Closed: 4th Monday of the month (or following day if that day is a holiday), 12/28-12/31 Cost: Adults ¥400, Elem. & JHS Students ¥100; Discount: available for groups of 20+
1st Temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage: Ryōzen-ji
Kobo Daishi designated this temple as the starting place for the Shikoku pilgrimage that includes 88 temples, and was founded around 1300 years ago by the Bodhisattva, Gyōki. There is a gorgeous Japanese garden on the grounds, as well as a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, that can grant wishes. Year round visitors come to see these as well as other treasures at the temple. Address: Tsukahana-126 Ōaachō Bandō, Naruto-shi TEL: 088-689-1111 Open: 7:00-17:00 (when temple seal/nōkyōin are available)
2nd Temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage: Gokuraku-ji
hese temple grounds are surrounded on three sides by mountains, giving them a tranquil resonance. The gardens of the temple spread out as you pass under the red temple gate, conjuring an image of paradise. Up stone steps waits the main hall where Kobo Daishi is enshrined in a statue known as "Anzan Daishi," and is prayed to for safe birth. Address: Dannoue-12 Ōasachō, Naruto-shi Phone: 088-689-1112 Open: 7:00-17:00 (when temple seal/nōkyōin are available)
Ōasahiko Shrine
This is a famous, nationally-recognized shrine that Tokushima Prefecture is very proud of. Surrounded by trees, the grounds are enwrapped in a solemn, majestic atmosphere, and the divine camphor tree has stood for over 1,000 years̶a natural monument of Naruto. Some pilgrims setting out on the Shikoku pilgrimage can be seen coming here to pray for a safe journey. Address: Hirozuka-13 Ōasachō Bandō, Naruto-shi TEL: 088-689-1212 Open: 6:00-17:00
Uchinoumi Sea (Naruto Skyline)
The Naruto skyline running along the north side of the Uchinoumi has a rich character. Near the center of the skyline is an observation deck that looks out in all directions, allowing you to take in a tremendous 360 ° panorama. On the south side of the Uchinoumi there are a variety of things to enjoy at the Naruto Uchinoumi Park. Address: Kita-679 Narutochō Takashima, Naruto-shi (Naruto Uchinoumi Park) Phone: 088-687-3175 Open: 6:00-22:00 (varies by facility) Closed: Park Center: Tues. (or day after a Tues. holiday); open on Tues. in Apr., May, & Sept. to Nov.; closed Dec. 29th to Jan. 3rd
Hanamiyama-Kokoro no Tegami Hall
This spot overlooks the Naruto Strait, Ōnaruto Bridge, and Awaji Island. There are a variety of seasonal flowers to be enjoyed, such as the blossoms of the weeping cherry trees, rhododendrons, winter jasmine, sasanqua camellias, and others. At the hall, depending on your wishes, you can have a letter delivered to a destination of your choosing after one to five years. Address: Ōge-234 Narutochō Tosadomariura, Naruto-shi Phone: 088-687-3555 Open: 10:00-16:00 Closed: Tuesday, New Year holidays Prices: Free
Myōkensan Park
Myōkensan Park is built around the summit of Mt. Myōkensan. In the park is a symbol of Naruto, "Torīde Naruto," and the observatory there overlooks Naruto city. The park is known for its cherry blossoms, and in the spring people come from far and wide to take in trees’ beautiful flowers. Address: Muyacho Hayasaki, Naruto-shi Phone: 088-684-1157 (Naruto City Tourism Promotion Dept.) Open: Sat., Sun., & National Holidays
Ōtsuka Museum of Art
This art museum exhibits over 1,000 full-size ceramic tiles that faithfully replicate masterworks representative of the art of Europe spanning from antiquity to modern day. The viewing course extends to about 4km, bringing together the masterpieces of Leonardo da Vinci, Van Gogh, and Picasso, as well as others. Address: Narutochō, Naruto-shi (in Naruto Park) TEL: 088-687-3737 Open: 9:30-17:00 (no entry after 16:00) Closed: Mondays (following day if Monday is a holiday) and other special closures Cost: General Admission ¥3240 (Advance Ticket ¥3100), College Students ¥2160 (Advance ¥2100), Elem. & JHS Students ¥540 (Advance ¥520) * Picture of works exhibited at the Ōtsuka Museum of Art