Unlocking Tokushima’s Hidden Gems: AoAwo Naruto Resort’s 35th Anniversary Unveils Epic Travel Deals and Cultural Journeys

Seamless Exploration with Special Anniversary Buses

To enhance guest convenience and make exploring Tokushima’s renowned attractions more accessible, the resort is launching two special bus services.

35th Thank You Uzuguru-go Bus

From April 1 to the end of June 2026, the 35th Thank You Uzuguru-go Bus will operate two daily services, offering transportation to popular spots like the Otsuka International Art Museum, Naruto Park, and the Uzushio sightseeing boat pier for a special anniversary price of just 350 yen per person.

This thoughtful gesture makes exploring Tokushima’s iconic sites, like the world-renowned Otsuka International Art Museum, home to a full-scale reproduction of the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling, and the breathtaking Naruto Whirlpools, incredibly accessible. Each journey is a chance to witness the natural grandeur of the Naruto Strait and the artistic brilliance housed within the museum walls.

• Period: April – June 2026 (two daily services, reservation required)

• Fare: 350 yen per person (one-way or round-trip)

• Schedule (Example):

  • First Service: Hotel 9:30 → Otsuka International Art Museum 9:35 → Uzushio Sightseeing Boat Pier 9:40 → Naruto Park 9:45 → Hotel 10:00

  • Second Service: Hotel 13:30 → Otsuka International Art Museum 13:35 → Uzushio Sightseeing Boat Pier 13:40 → Naruto Park 13:45 → Hotel 14:00

• Details: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/publics/index/263/#block9100

Hanami-yama Naruto Cherry Blossom Bus

During the cherry blossom festival (March 27 – April 10, 2026), a special Hanami-yama Naruto Cherry Blossom Bus will run four round trips daily for 100 yen per way. Hanami-yama Naruto is a renowned spot for its weeping cherry trees, offering a picturesque view of the spring landscape.

• Period: March 27 – April 10, 2026

• Fare: 100 yen per way

• Hanami-yama Naruto Cherry Blossom Festival: 9:00-16:00, Entry fee 300 yen

• Details: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/publics/index/263/#block9102

Immerse in Tokushima’s Rich Culture and Flavors

The 35th anniversary celebrations extend to unique cultural experiences and delightful culinary offerings.

Welcome Drink: AoAwo 35th Blue Citrus

From April 1 to July 17 (excluding May 2-5), guests can enjoy a complimentary “AoAwo 35th Blue Citrus” cocktail at Terrace Cafe Oge, featuring Tokushima’s famous Kito Yuzu and Sudachi citrus fruits blended with local sake. A non-alcoholic option is also available, perfect for enjoying the ocean view.

Experience the World-Renowned Awa Odori

Since April 1995, the resort has hosted daily, free Awa Odori performances, a vibrant traditional Japanese dance. During the anniversary year, a “35th Awa Odori Yattosa Master” will be selected nightly and presented with a certificate of appreciation and original goods. Guests can also participate in the “Chibikko Ren” (children’s group) practice or transform into an “Awa Dancer” with traditional costume fitting and commemorative photos (paid).

Imagine the rhythmic pulse of drums and shamisen, echoing through the resort as dancers swirl in vibrant kimonos – a truly captivating spectacle!

• Details: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/publics/index/263/#block9092

Memory-Making Awa Indigo Dyeing Art Project

Since April 1996, the resort has offered Awa Indigo Dyeing (Awa Aizome) experiences, a traditional craft using natural indigo. As part of the 35th anniversary, guests can join the Awa Indigo Art Project from April 1 to September 30, 2026 (excluding July 18-August 31). Participants will create a small indigo-dyed handkerchief, which will then become part of a collaborative community art piece, “Awa Blue Memory Gallery,” displayed on the resort’s walls. It’s like contributing a brushstroke to a living, evolving canvas, where each guest’s unique dye pattern weaves into a larger narrative of shared memories.

Additionally, an outdoor art installation, “Wave-side Woven Object,” featuring bold Awa indigo fabrics, will be displayed on AoAwo Beach during the same period. This symbolic photo spot invites guests to capture the unique blue hues of indigo swaying in the sea breeze, creating a special memory.

• Awa Indigo Art Project:

  • Period: April 1 – September 30, 2026 (excluding July 18 – August 31)

  • Price: 3,300 yen per person (includes one take-home handkerchief and one for display)

• Details: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/publics/index/263/#block9098

Golden Week and Monthly Celebrations

Golden Week (May 1-6) brings a flurry of family-friendly activities, including the opening of the outdoor pool, beach seine fishing, and a unique “Delicious Beach Open-Air Breakfast” with freshly caught fish. Kids can also enjoy kite flying and a fishing pond challenge. Throughout the year, monthly events will include lotteries, gifts for children and HPD Reward members, and a special fireworks festival in August.

• Golden Week Events: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/publics/index/263/#block9153

• HPD Reward Membership: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/publics/index/246/

“Awa no Kuni” – A Journey Back in Time

At the resort’s “Awa no Kuni” (Land of Awa) area, guests can step into a retro-modern space reminiscent of old Japan. Here, you’ll find a “dagashi-ya” (traditional candy store) and festival games, alongside opportunities to experience traditional crafts like Awa Indigo dyeing, Ohtani ware painting, and hand-made Washi paper.

• Awa no Kuni: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/publics/index/52/

Indulge in Local and Seasonal Cuisine

AoAwo Naruto Resort boasts five distinctive restaurants. Terrace Cafe Oge, with its panoramic ocean views, offers local sweets and light meals, with a special focus on diverse strawberry sweets during spring. The resort also hosts popular dessert buffets featuring patissier-crafted strawberry delights and French appetizers.

• Terrace Cafe Oge: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/publics/index/156/

• Strawberry Feast 2026: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/publics/index/180

• Restaurants Overview: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/publics/index/316/

AoAwo Naruto Resort: Your Gateway to Tokushima’s Wonders

AoAwo Naruto Resort stands as an oceanfront haven within the Setonaikai National Park, offering rooms with stunning views of the sunrise over the sea and the “Naruto Moon Road,” a phenomenon recognized as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Moons. The resort provides a variety of room types, including Western and Japanese-style rooms, as well as unique themed accommodations like Awa Indigo rooms, Ohtani ware art rooms, and the newly unveiled Van Gogh’s Sunflower Room.

The resort’s convenient location offers easy access to major transportation hubs, with a free shuttle service available from Tokushima Airport, JR Naruto Station, and the Naruto Expressway Bus Stop. Direct highway buses from Kansai, Hiroshima, Okayama, and Takamatsu further simplify travel plans.

• Access Information: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/publics/index/123/

This 35th anniversary celebration at AoAwo Naruto Resort presents an unparalleled opportunity for international travelers to discover the vibrant culture, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality of Tokushima. From riding a special bus to witnessing traditional dances and creating indigo art, each experience is designed to leave a lasting impression, inviting guests to forge their own unforgettable memories in this enchanting corner of Japan. The resort’s commitment to showcasing regional charm ensures that the spirit of Tokushima will continue to captivate hearts globally, enriching the tapestry of Japanese travel experiences for years to come.