Jindai Odori (Dance) 【June 25th of lunar calendar (around Jul-Aug)】

The Jindai Odori of Nishi-Iya is a folk performing art of the Nishi-Iya Mountain Village in Miyoshi City, Tokushima Prefecture.
In 1976, it was registered as a nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, and in 2022, it was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage along with 41 other Furyuodori dances throughout Japan.

The origin of Jindai Odori is believed to be a ritual to pray for rain more than 1,100 years ago.
Unlike the dance rituals for keeping away evil spirits and repelling insects that have been handed down in various parts of Japan, the Jindai Odori is a flamboyant and heroic dance.

Name of Facility	善徳天満宮　Zentoku Tenmangu (Shrine)
Address	〒778-0102 徳島県三好市西祖谷山村善徳１２０４ 1204 Zentoku, Nishiiya-Yamamura, Miyoshi-shi, Tokushima 778-0102, Japan
Access	Near the Kazura Bridge, you will find a store “「射場商店」”. Across from the store is a path leading up to Zentoku Tenmangu Shrine, with signs reading “西祖谷の神代踊 Nishi-Iya no Jindai Odori” and “善徳天満宮 Zentoku Tenmangu Shrine 6km".
TEL	三好市役所社会教育課 Miyoshi City Hall Social Education Department：0883-72-3900
URL	https://miyoshi-tourism.jp/en/spot/54/
Start time	June 25 of every lunar year 10:00-13:00
Precautions	1. There are sections where the road is very narrow. If you are not confident about driving, please take a cab. 2. Parking space is limited, so please ride together with your friends as much as possible.

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.

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