Tokushima Castle Ruins and Mt. Bizan: Castle Town History and the Mountain Overlooking the City

Mt. Bizan: Tokushima City's Symbol and Scenic Observation Deck

Mt. Bizan (290 meters elevation) rising in the center of Tokushima City is a mountain whose name comes from its ridgeline being as beautifully eyebrow-like as seen from anywhere in the city. It is a symbolic presence for Tokushima, also sung about in the "Awa Odori" lyrics "the moon over Mt. Bizan."

Mt. Bizan Ropeway

The summit of Mt. Bizan can be accessed in approximately 6 minutes by ropeway from the Awa Odori Hall at the mountain's base. From the summit observation deck, a 360-degree spectacular view spreads out, visible all the way to Tokushima city, Yoshino River, Kii Channel, and Awaji Island.

Tokushima Castle Ruins and Tokushima Castle Museum

Tokushima Castle, which stood on Castle Hill (a hill on the north side of Mt. Bizan), was a castle built by Hachisuka Iemasa in Tensho 14 (1586). Castle Hill is currently developed as Tokushima Central Park, with castle ruins stone walls and moats remaining. The adjacent "Tokushima Castle Museum" allows learning about the Hachisuka family's history and Awa culture.

Awa Odori Hall

The "Awa Odori Hall" is in the building with the Mt. Bizan Ropeway boarding point, with live Awa Odori performances and experience programs held throughout the year. Authentic dancing can be enjoyed even outside the Awa Odori season.

Access

Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Tokushima Station. Tokushima Central Park, Awa Odori Hall, and Mt. Bizan Ropeway are all within walking distance.