Horse Chestnut Tree of Kuwahira

Tree Details: Trunk circumference: 8.5 m, Height: 28 m, Elevation: 700 m

The tree is vigorous, spreading numerous large and small branches to form a beautiful shape. Near the base, the trunk divides into two, which is thought to be the result of two separate trees fusing together.
The Japanese horse chestnut (Tochinoki) produces upright, cone-shaped clusters of white flowers from May to June. In autumn, its fruits split open to reveal large seeds. It is also well known as the tree used to make tochi-mochi (a traditional chestnut rice cake).

Name of Facility	Horse Chestnut Tree of Kuwahira
Address	〒779-4100 徳島県美馬郡つるぎ町一宇桑平6146番地
Access	About 50 min by car from Mima IC

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Mt. Tsurugi Annual Grand Ritual【July 17th】

Held atop Mt. Tsurugi, the second-highest peak in western Japan (1,955m)

This sacred festival, rich with tradition, is held each year on the summit of Mt. Tsurugi, a revered mountain long regarded as a spiritual site. The ceremony centers around a solemn mikoshi (portable shrine) procession, honoring two deities—Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Emperor Antoku.

Approximately 100 participants, dressed in traditional white garments, carry the mikoshi across the mountaintop, forming a striking procession as they move in unison through slopes covered in dwarf bamboo (kumasasa). Set at nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, with clouds seeming just within reach, the festival exudes a profound spiritual presence.

More than just a ritual, this event is a powerful reminder of the reverence for nature and the enduring faith passed down through generations.

For those seeking a deeper connection, the festival offers a special opportunity: the One-Day Shugyō Experience. Participants can join as mikoshi bearers, purify their spirit, and take part in an ancient tradition amidst the clear mountain air and sacred atmosphere.

Fireworks Festival in Tsurugi Town 【Last Sunday in July】

On a summer evening in Tsurugi Town, approximately 1,300 fireworks light up the night sky in a gentle yet impressive display. The colorful bursts reflect off the surrounding mountains, creating a beautiful contrast against the quiet countryside.

At the festival venue, visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with food stalls offering local snacks and summer treats. It’s a chance to experience a bit of traditional festival charm in a peaceful setting.

Whether you're with family or friends, the combination of soft evening breezes, distant echoes of fireworks, and warm community spirit makes for a memorable summer moment in Tsurugi Town.

Events

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Summer

Awadance Festival in Ikeda【August 14th～16th annually】

Ikeda Awa Odori Dance Festival!
Awa Odori is one of the three major traditional dances in Japan.
During the three days of the Bon Festival, the town of Awa Ikeda is filled with the sounds of the dance.
Food stalls line the sides of the streets, and about 30 groups of dancers dance through the streets. This is Tokushima's summer festival!
You can enjoy the festival in the paid stands or walk around the free performance stages.
Whether you enjoy watching or dancing with the dancers, you are sure to have a great time!

On August 13, the pre-festival event will be held on the Naesokko Park stage, too.

Sightseeing Spots & Specialties

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