About an hour's drive from Kochi Ryoma Airport along mountain roads, villages began to come into view among the mountains shrouded in thick mist.

This is Oboke, Tokushima Prefecture, one of Japan's three most remote areas. This area has long been known for its legends of monsters, with a deep, V-shaped valley and many places where one wrong step could lead to disaster. To keep people from going too close to dangerous places, the legends of monsters have been passed down and continue to live on in people's lives.

As a result, Oboke remains an untouched natural environment, as if time had stopped.

"Kazurabashi" - A bridge where ancient wisdom lives

The Kazura Bridge, built by ancient people using natural kudzu plants such as the wild actinidia arguta, is a true culmination of skill and wisdom. The bridge is restored every three years, and has maintained its unchanged beauty through the ages.

As you step onto the bridge, the roaring river spreads out beneath your feet, and many people find themselves stopping in their tracks as the bridge sways.

The charm of Ochiai village, quietly nestled on a mountain path

Ochiai village is a village that spreads out along the slope of a mountain. The difference in elevation within the village is about 390m, and the village is formed on a steep slope.

Here, the good old days of Japanese life still thrive, and you can even stay in a private lodging, where you can cut down trees, make firewood, and enjoy simple cooking. A stay in Ochiai village will be a great opportunity to find inner peace.

The exhilarating feeling of racing through the valley! The appeal of 'ziplining'

There are plenty of activities that can only be enjoyed in nature.

At Forest Adventure Iya, you can try ziplining through the valley. Once you've experienced this exhilarating feeling, you'll never forget it.

The feeling of being one with nature as you glide smoothly between the mountains is amazing. What's more, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding area with the Iya River stretching out at your feet.

A mysterious welcome at "Nagoro Scarecrow Village"

In "Nagoro Scarecrow Village," there are 350 scarecrows based on real villagers all over the village. They are in bus stops, farmland, lumberyards, and even schools. It's as if they really live there. Currently, there are only 20 residents in this small village, but scarecrows built by a local woman over the course of 11 years is bringing back the village's vitality.

The sight of the scarecrows lined up gives you a mysterious feeling, as if you are being welcomed by a large number of people.

Refresh your mind and body in nature with this blissful lodging experience at "Obokekyo Mannaka"

Located on the banks of a river, it is renowned for its beautiful scenery, hot springs, and delicious food, including local dishes made with fresh local ingredients, and it consistently receives high ratings on TripAdvisor.

There is a wide variety of dishes on offer both in the morning and in the evening, and the miso soup served for dinner, made with dashi stock blended by the head chef himself, is so delicious you'll want to drink it all up.

Also, the local Oboke regional dish "Sobasubeshi" made from buckwheat is delicious, with a gentle taste made from carefully selected ingredients.

All guest rooms offer magnificent views of Oboke Gorge, allowing you to spend a relaxing time at one with nature.

Spending time in Oboke, Tokushima, is more than just a trip; it is a valuable experience that allows you to experience the true face and deep charm of Japan. Time in nature is the perfect environment for your mind to instantly regain peace and relaxation.

Also, by coming into contact with the wisdom and lifestyle of the local people, you can gain a deeper understanding of Japan's most simple and pure lifestyle. We hope that your stay in Oboke will be a wonderful memory that will stay in your heart.

Hotel Obokekyo Mannaka

1644-1 Yamashirocho Nishiu, Miyoshi 779-5451 Tokushima Prefecture

Want to buy it and take it home, a gift box

Tokushima Prefecture's "Yusan Box" is a wonderful souvenir that allows you to take home a touch of Japanese tradition and nature. This beautiful box is perfect for picnics and hikes, and features a three-tiered structure.

• The first tier: Colorful appetizers and snacks.

• The second tier: Main dishes such as meat, fish, and sushi.

• The third tier: Rice and desserts, Sanuki udon noodles, seasonal fruits, and sweet snacks.

アクセス

JR (to Oboke Station)
1 hour 50 minutes from Okayama Station
1 hour 20 minutes from Takamatsu Station
1 hour from Kochi Station

Car (to Oboke)
1 hour 20 minutes from Kochi Ryoma Airport
1 hour 50 minutes from Takamatsu Airport
1 hour 50 minutes from Tokushima Awaodori Airport

Author profile

I am a fun and cheerful woman from China who has been in Japan for 13 years. I love traveling and have been to almost every prefecture in Japan. I love shopping, and this time at Oboke I bought some Awa T-shirts and a Yusan box, which are characteristic of the local area. The Yusan box is made from local cypress. I gave it to my father as a present when I got home and he was very happy. As expected from something handmade by a Japanese craftsman, it is very intricate and has a faint wood scent. It is already displayed as a decoration in my house.

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