Tokushima Hotels

Tokushima is the capital city of Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku island of Japan. In 2003, the city had an estimated population of 267,343 and a density of 1,398.02 persons per kmē. Its total area is 191.23 kmē. The city is situated in the north-eastern part of Tokushima prefecture at the mouth of the Yoshino River. In terms of layout and organization, Tokushima displays the typical characteristics of a Japanese castle town. Tokushima was developed under the Hachisuka clan. Its prosperity was built on a strong indigo dye industry. Tokushima is famous for its lively Awa Odori, the second largest cultural dance festival in the world,[citation needed] which is held every year during the Obon Festival in August. Awa Odori literally translates as "Awa Dance" (Awa being Tokushima prefecture's ancient name). During the festival, residents ranging from young children to professional dance troupes perform a distinctive style of Japanese traditional dance in regional costumes, accompanied by strings, drums, and singing (usually by the dancers themselves). The city welcomes some 3,000,000 people from all over the world for this three day festival. The modern city of Tokushima was founded on October 1, 1889. At the time, it was the 10th largest city in Japan.The city is served by Tokushima Airport, in nearby Matsushige.