Shikoku Pilgrimage: Three Historic Temples
One of Itano’s defining features is its place along the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage, a celebrated Buddhist pilgrimage route associated with the monk Kōbō Daishi, also known as Kūkai. Pilgrims traveling between Naruto City to the east and Kamiita Town to the west pass through Itano, where it is still possible to encounter walkers wearing traditional white pilgrimage clothing and conical straw hats.
Temple No. 3: Konsen-ji
Konsen-ji is the third temple on the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage. Its name means “Golden Spring Temple,” reflecting a tradition associated with a sacred spring. With a history extending back approximately 1,200 years, the temple has long attracted worshippers praying for good health, recovery from illness, and the well-being of their families.
Temple No. 4: Dainichi-ji
Dainichi-ji is the fourth temple on the pilgrimage route. Tradition attributes its founding to Kōbō Daishi. The temple’s solemn atmosphere makes it a peaceful place for prayer and reflection, whether you are following the full pilgrimage or simply exploring Tokushima’s religious heritage.
Temple No. 5: Jizō-ji
Jizō-ji, the fifth temple on the route, enshrines Jizō Bosatsu, a bodhisattva especially associated with the protection of children and travelers. Its historic temple buildings and Buddhist imagery offer visitors another opportunity to experience the spiritual traditions that have shaped life in Shikoku for centuries.
Historic Roads and Mountain Scenery
Itano once lay along the Sanuki Highway, one of the traditional roads connecting the former provinces of Awa, now Tokushima Prefecture, and Sanuki, now Kagawa Prefecture. The route played an important role in regional travel, trade, and administration. Traveling through the area today offers glimpses of the landscape that generations of travelers and pilgrims have crossed.
Ōsaka Pass
Ōsaka Pass lies on the border between Tokushima and Kagawa prefectures and has served as an important route through the mountains since ancient times. Today, it is known as a destination for walking and hiking. From elevated viewpoints, visitors can enjoy sweeping views toward the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding mountains. It is a rewarding place to appreciate the natural landscape that connects the two prefectures.
Former Ōsaka-guchi Checkpoint
The remains of the former Ōsaka-guchi checkpoint, also known as the former Murase residence site, recall the days when travelers and goods moved along controlled routes during the Edo period (1603–1868). The site provides a glimpse into the area’s former role in transportation and regional security.
Hot Springs and Peaceful Natural Spots
Asebi Onsen
Asebi Onsen is a hot spring facility that opened in 2002 and uses alkaline sulfur spring water. It has become a popular place for local residents and visitors to unwind, with approximately 150,000 bathers reported annually. After exploring the pilgrimage temples or walking in the surrounding hills, a soak in the hot spring offers a relaxing way to end the day.
Jogamaru Pond
Surrounded by greenery, Jogamaru Pond is a quiet destination for nature walks and birdwatching. The changing scenery through the seasons makes it a pleasant place to slow down and enjoy the rural atmosphere of Itano.
Parks, Family Activities, and Recreation
Asutamu Land Tokushima
Asutamu Land Tokushima is a large recreational park combining nature, science, and hands-on learning. Its spacious green areas, play equipment, and interactive science attractions make it particularly appealing to families with children. Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation while discovering scientific ideas through engaging activities.
Tokushima Wooden Toy Museum
The Tokushima Wooden Toy Museum introduces visitors to toys made from natural wood. Through its wooden playthings and hands-on experiences, the museum encourages children to explore their creativity while discovering the warmth and texture of natural materials. It is a welcoming destination for families looking for an activity that combines play with learning.
Itano Town Historical and Cultural Park
This park provides an opportunity to learn about Itano’s local history and cultural heritage in a relaxed outdoor setting. It is a good place to combine a leisurely walk with an introduction to the town’s historical sites and traditions.
Asebi Park
Surrounded by greenery, Asebi Park is a pleasant place to enjoy the outdoors and relax away from busy urban areas. Its seasonal scenery makes it an appealing stop for both residents and visitors.
Itano Town Countryside Park
Itano Town Countryside Park offers open spaces where visitors can enjoy the rural landscape and observe nature. Its relaxed setting is suitable for families and anyone wishing to experience the agricultural character of the area.
Tokushima Vortis Training Ground and Tokushima Sports Village
Tokushima Sports Village is home to training facilities associated with Tokushima Vortis, the prefecture’s professional football club. For football enthusiasts, the complex offers a connection to the local sporting scene. Any visit to the training grounds should be planned around current access rules and team activities.
Historic Shrines and Temples
In addition to the three pilgrimage temples, Itano has numerous local shrines and Buddhist temples that reflect generations of community worship. These sites provide a quieter perspective on the town’s history and traditions.
Notable shrines include Ōmiya Shrine, Okagami Shrine, Yabu Hachiman Shrine, Suai Hachiman Shrine, Kōden Shrine, Kehi Shrine, Kameyama Shrine, Shiratori Shrine, Tenman Shrine, and Aoki Shrine. Their grounds and local festivals are closely connected with community life, seasonal traditions, and prayers for protection and prosperity.
Other temples in the area include Myōyaku-ji, associated with prayers for recovery from illness; Aizen-in, known for prayers related to relationships and love; Kongō-in, which is especially attractive during the autumn foliage season; Hōgon-ji; Jūraku-ji; Senkō-ji; and Senshō-ji. These places offer further opportunities to experience the religious and cultural character of rural Tokushima.
Archaeological Sites and Castle Ruins
Itano’s history extends beyond its religious heritage. The area contains archaeological sites that shed light on earlier periods of settlement and belief.
Atago-yama Kofun is an ancient burial mound of archaeological interest. The Kurasadani Tile Sutra Mound is associated with the discovery of Buddhist scriptures inscribed on roof tiles, while the Kurotanigawa Guntō archaeological site preserves evidence of ancient life in the region. The ruins of Itanishi Castle recall the area’s medieval history and the period when fortified strongholds played an important role in local power and defense.
Agriculture and Local Specialties
The southern part of Itano lies within the fertile lowlands of the lower Yoshino River basin, where agriculture plays an important role in local life. The town is particularly associated with carrots, as well as strawberries, lotus roots, and Awa indigo, a traditional crop used in the region’s famous indigo-dyeing craft.
Spring Carrots
Spring carrots are among the area’s best-known agricultural products. Harvested early in the year, they are valued for their sweetness and tender texture. Tokushima Prefecture is a major producer of spring carrots, and the crop is an important part of the region’s agricultural identity. Fresh local produce can often be found at roadside markets and direct-sales outlets.
Geography and Natural Environment
Itano’s landscape is shaped by the contrast between the Asan Mountains to the north and the broad lowlands associated with the Yoshino River to the south. The Median Tectonic Line fault zone runs through the wider region, reflecting the geological forces that have shaped the terrain. Rivers such as the Old Yoshino River and Miyakawauchi Valley River contribute to the local scenery and help sustain agriculture.
Getting to Itano Town
Itano is accessible by rail and road. JR Shikoku’s Kōtoku Line serves Itano Station, providing connections toward Tokushima City and Kagawa Prefecture. By car, the Itano Interchange on the Takamatsu Expressway offers convenient access to destinations across Shikoku and connections toward the rest of Japan.
Highway buses also provide connections to major cities including Osaka and Kobe. For visitors planning to explore several temples, parks, and mountain sites in one day, a rental car can offer greater flexibility, as attractions are spread across the town and surrounding countryside.
Discover Itano’s Blend of History and Nature
Itano Town offers a rewarding mix of pilgrimage culture, historic roads, archaeological remains, outdoor recreation, and rural scenery. Walking between its ancient temples provides a sense of the spiritual traditions that have shaped Shikoku, while Ōsaka Pass, the town’s parks, and its agricultural landscapes reveal a quieter side of Tokushima Prefecture.
Whether you are a pilgrim, a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a family looking for outdoor activities, Itano is a welcoming destination where traditional culture and everyday rural life remain closely connected.