Shikoku Snowball Competition 【Late January】

This is a big competition among volunteers from inside and outside of Shikoku.
Higashi-Iya, located near Mt. Tsurugi, is known for its high altitude and snow.
This event is an annual snowball battle held in the Higashi-iya Valley, following the official sports rules.

It is exciting not only for the participants, but also to watch!

Price	Participation fee for one team ￥10,000
Name of Facility	Ground of Iyashino Onsenkyo
Address	28 Higashi-iya Sugeoi, Miyoshi-shi, Tokushima
Access	From Tokushima City: Ikawa-Ikeda Interchange (Tokushima Expressway) → Route 32 → Oboke → Miyoshi-shi Nishi-iya Yamamura 　→Iyashino Onsenkyo From Kochi City: Otoyo Interchange (Kochi Expressway) → Route 32 → Oboke → Miyoshi-shi Nishi-iya Yamamura 　→Iyashino Onsenkyo *Even if your car navigation system shows other routes, they are closed in winter. Please use the above route.
URL	https://www.shikoku-yukigassen.jp/
Start time	Late January Opening Ceremony scheduled around 9:00 a.m. Closing Ceremony scheduled around 15:30
Precautions	Please be sure to equip yourself with winter tires, 4WD, etc. for driving on roads covered with snow.

Other Contents

Oboke Gorge Sightseeing Cruise

Marvel at the ever-changing beauty of curious rock formations and clear streams, shaped over 100 million years. A leisurely cruise through the Oboke and Koboke gorges lets you soak in the grandeur of untouched nature.

From the boat gliding gently along the emerald-green Yoshino River, you’ll have close-up views of towering cliffs, trees swaying in the river breeze, and the sparkling flow of water. Don’t miss the chance to experience the dynamic natural beauty of this remarkable gorge.

※ Cruise duration: approx. 30 minutes. Boarding and disembarking at the same location.

【Dining: Oboke Gorge Mannaka Restaurant】
Set in a spectacular location overlooking the Yoshino River, this restaurant offers local cuisine made with fresh regional ingredients, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the gorge.

Favorites include salt-grilled river fish, Iya soba noodles, and the original local specialty “Hidaru Ramen.” After your boat cruise, savor the flavors of the region while gazing at the gorge’s seasonal beauty.

【Souvenirs】
The on-site shop features a wide variety of regional specialties, including sake from Tokushima, locally grown tea, and sweets handmade at local confectioneries. You’ll also find carefully selected specialties from across Shikoku—perfect keepsakes to remember your trip.

【Stay: Oboke Gorge Mannaka Onsen Inn】
Just a 3-minute walk from the boat landing, this tranquil hot spring inn is surrounded by nature. Relax in the soothing waters of its high-quality hot spring, unwind from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and enjoy a truly restful stay.

Koboke Viewpoint

A scenic lookout offering sweeping views of Koboke’s natural beauty. From here, take in the dramatic rock faces of Koboke Gorge, the emerald-green Yoshino River below, and the lush mountains rising all around. Just five minutes from National Route 32, it’s an easy stop on a drive or sightseeing route. Trains gliding past and rafting boats cutting through the river add a touch of movement, making this a favourite spot for photos.

Sightseeing Spots

Nature

All seasons

Nagoro Scarecrow Village (Kakashi no Sato)

You can spot over 350 scarecrows in this deep mountain village. One woman, Ayano Tsukimi, handmade all of them and creatively placed them around the area: in the fields working, waiting at bus stops, dancing local dances, etc. She welcomes visitors to walk around the village and enter the old school to see a glimpse of the past.

Back