[For Seniors] Tokushima Prefecture Local Quiz: Engaging Questions That Spark Conversation and Liven Things Up

Yoshino River

The correct answer is the Yoshino River. Along with the Tone River (Bando Taro) and the Chikugo River (Chikushi Jiro), it is counted as one of Japan’s three great “rampaging” rivers and is affectionately known as “Shikoku Saburo.” It is a river familiar to the people of the prefecture and indispensable to Tokushima’s rich natural environment and agricultural development.

Kazura Bridge

The Iya Kazura Bridge is a precious suspension bridge that has been designated an Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property by the Japanese government. Made from about six tons of hardy kiwi vines (shirakuchikazura), it sways with every step, offering a thrilling experience. Legend has it that the defeated Heike clan fashioned it from vines so it could be cut down at any time to escape pursuers.

Bizan (眉山)

Mount Bizan, located in the center of Tokushima City, is a mountain about 290 meters high. Its name comes from the fact that, from any direction, it appears in the shape of a gently arched eyebrow, and it has long been beloved by the citizens of Tokushima. It also served as the setting for novels and a film by Masashi Sada.

indigo dyeing

Tokushima Prefecture has long been famous as a production center of Awa Ai, which uses a plant called Japanese indigo (tade-ai). The deep blue produced by indigo dyeing is known overseas as “Japan Blue,” and the traditional techniques are still carefully passed down today.

Komatsushima City

The correct answer is Komatsushima City. It is known as the place where Minamoto no Yoshitsune landed on his way to the Battle of Yashima, and many historical sites associated with Yoshitsune remain in the area. It is also famous for housing Onzan-ji, the 18th temple on the pilgrimage route.

Sudachi-kun

Sudachi-kun is a character modeled after Sudachi, a specialty of Tokushima Prefecture. With its adorable smile and an Awa Odori hat, it is widely loved both within and outside the prefecture.

Awa Odori

Awa Odori is a Bon dance that originated in Tokushima Prefecture and is said to have a history of over 400 years. Along with Nishimonai Bon Odori in Akita Prefecture and Gujo Odori in Gifu Prefecture, it is counted as one of Japan’s three major Bon dances. Every summer, many tourists visit from all over the country.