Bizan Driveway: Connecting the City with Nature
Bizan Driveway is a public road approximately 3 kilometers long, running between Kamonamachi and Bizancho in Tokushima City. Despite its name, it is an ordinary public road and can be used free of charge.
Scenery and Attractions Along the Route
The road descends northwest from Mount Bizan, offering glimpses of Tokushima’s urban landscape along the way. After leaving National Route 192 near Kuramoto Athletic Park, follow the road toward Mount Bizan and pass through a residential neighborhood. The driveway begins beyond this built-up area and continues to Seibu Park, a popular destination for cherry blossom viewing.
In spring, cherry trees transform the park into a sea of blossoms, making it an especially appealing stop for visitors who want to experience Japan’s celebrated cherry blossom season.
Driving Safety
The road is narrow, with a width of approximately one and a half lanes, so drivers should take care when passing oncoming vehicles and watch for pedestrians. Large vehicles are prohibited, with the exception of minibuses.
Along the route, you may encounter places where spring water flows beside the road, adding to the feeling of being surrounded by nature. However, some sections are narrow and lack guardrails, requiring particular caution. Wild animals, including wild boar, may also appear, so drive slowly and remain alert.
Bizan Parkway: A Scenic Drive Through Nature and History
Bizan Parkway is a public road approximately 2,850 meters long, connecting Jonancho with Bizancho in Tokushima City. It was formerly a toll road but became free to use on June 1, 1999, making it accessible to all visitors.
Panoramic Views and Nearby Attractions
The road leads to Bizan Park, which has a free parking lot with space for approximately 100 vehicles. From the park, visitors can enjoy sweeping views across Tokushima City. On clear days, the distant outlines of Awaji Island and the Kii Peninsula may also be visible.
After dark, the city lights spread out below the mountain like a field of sparkling jewels, creating a particularly romantic atmosphere. The viewpoint is an excellent place to appreciate Tokushima’s nighttime scenery.
The landscape changes beautifully with the seasons. Cherry blossoms brighten the mountain in spring, while autumn brings colorful foliage. Depending on when you visit, you may also encounter hikers using the mountain trails, making it easy to combine a scenic drive with a walk, hike, or picnic.
Driving Safety
An orange center line runs along Bizan Parkway, which features numerous sharp bends and steep slopes. Near the entrance, the gradient reaches as much as 15%, so drivers should use appropriate speeds and exercise caution when climbing or descending.
The entrance is located near a residential area, where pedestrians and cyclists may be present. Hikers also use the route, so keep your speed down and remain attentive throughout the drive.
Bizan Park: Panoramic Views from the Summit
Mount Bizan, whose name means “Eyebrow Mountain,” is said to resemble the shape of an eyebrow. The mountain has been admired since ancient times and is even mentioned in the Man’yoshu, Japan’s oldest surviving anthology of poetry, in a verse comparing the mountains of Awa to an eyebrow appearing among the clouds.
Standing approximately 290 meters above sea level, the summit is home to Bizan Park, one of Tokushima City’s best-known scenic destinations.
Attractions at the Summit
The park features the Pagoda Peace Memorial Tower and facilities where visitors can rest and enjoy the views. It offers an appealing combination of natural scenery and historical significance.
From the summit, you can look out across Tokushima City and, on clear days, see as far as Awaji Island and the Kii Peninsula. Cherry blossoms in spring and colorful autumn leaves add seasonal beauty to the landscape, giving the park a different character throughout the year.
Enjoy Tokushima’s Night View
One of the highlights of Mount Bizan is its spectacular nighttime panorama. As darkness falls, the lights of Tokushima City emerge from the surrounding night like jewels scattered across a jewelry box. In the distance, lights along the Wakayama coast form a delicate, luminous band, creating an enchanting scene.
The summit is a popular destination for couples and families seeking a memorable evening. Whether you visit during the day or after sunset, the views offer a wonderful way to appreciate the beauty of Tokushima.
Experience the Scenic Roads of Mount Bizan
Bizan Driveway and Bizan Parkway are excellent routes for exploring one of Tokushima City’s most treasured landmarks. Along the way, visitors can enjoy peaceful natural surroundings, seasonal flowers and foliage, and sweeping views of the city. Bizan Park at the summit is especially rewarding, with its panoramic vistas and glittering nighttime scenery.
Although the roads include steep slopes, sharp curves, and sections shared with pedestrians, careful driving allows visitors to enjoy a memorable journey through the landscape. Take the time to explore Mount Bizan and discover the natural beauty and spectacular views that make it a symbol of Tokushima.