Mima

Mima (美馬市 Mima-shi) is a city in Tokushima (prefecture) on the island of Shikoku. It is located inland, to the west of Tokushima city. To the north, Mima borders Kagawa Prefecture.

Yoshino river (right) and Anabuki river in Mima, Tokushima.

Understand

In 2005, the city of Mima was created from the towns and villages of Mima, Anabuki, Waki, and Koyadaira. (Handa, Sadamitsu, and the village of Ichiu merged into Tsurugi, which is also part of Mima District.) Mima had a population of 30,000 in 2016.

Tourist information

• 🌍 Mima City Tourism Resource Center (美馬市観光文化資料館 Mima-shi kankō bunka shiryōkan), 脇町大字脇町92, ☎ [phone]. Daily 9AM-5PM. The tourism center in the Udatsu area. You can go here for tours and bicycle renting. There is one English volunteer guide, so if you want to take the English tour, it is recommended you make reservations in advance. You can make reservations through the Mima City Tourism Association ([phone]). 

Get in

By plane

There are two small airports near Mima city. From Tokushima Airport, travelers can take the bus to Tokushima Station. From there, travelers can get on the Tokushima line (徳島線 Tokushima-sen). Takamatsu Airport, can be accessed from Mima by Route 193. From Mima City Hall, it takes approximately 40 minutes by car. The largest international airport in the vicinity is Kansai International Airport in Osaka (2 hr 45 min from Tokushima city, ¥4000 — cheaper if you purchase a round trip ticket).

By train

There are three train stations in Mima city along the Tokushima line. These are Anabuki Station (穴吹駅 Anabuki-eki), Oshima Station (小島駅 Oshima-eki) and Sadamitsu Station (貞光駅 Sadamitsu-eki). From Tokushima Station it takes a little over one hour to travel to Anabuki Station, and costs ¥830 (for adults). There is also a limited express train that stops at Anabuki Station. The limited express takes around 40 minutes to get to Tokushima Station and costs ¥2270.

By bus

Several buses travel to or through Mima.

• Dream Kochi Bus (ドリーム高知号 Doriimu Kōchi Gō), ☎ [phone]. Reservations 8AM-7PM. This overnight bus runs between Kochi and Tokyo, and stops in Mima at the Wakimachi Bus Station (脇町BS). It takes around 9 hours to travel from Mima to Shinjuku. Reservations necessary. Prices differ depending on how long in advance you make reservations (reservations can be made up to one month in advance). Reservations (in Japanese) can be made online or by phone. (updated Mar 2017)
• Kochi Express (高知エクスプレス号 Kōchi Ekusupuresu Gō). From Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto. (updated Mar 2017)
• EDDY Osaka Line (EDDY大阪線 EDDY Ōsaka-sen). From Osaka. (updated Mar 2017)
• EDDY Kobe Line (EDDY神戸線 EDDY Kōbe-sen). From Kobe. (updated Mar 2017)
• Yoshinogawa Express (吉野川エクスプレス Yoshinogawa Ekusupuresu). From Matsuyama. (updated Mar 2017)
• Kochi Tokushima Express (高知徳島エクスプレス Kōchi Tokushima Ekusupuresu). From Kochi. (updated Mar 2017)
• Takamatsu Line (高松線 Takamatsu-sen). Two Takamatsu buses per day, each direction. (updated Mar 2017)

By car

Route 192 connects Mima to Tokushima, while Route 193 connects Mima to Takamatsu. There is an interchange for the Tokushima Expressway near Wakimachi.

Get around

By train

There are three train stations along the Tokushima Line that serve Mima City. These are, from east to west, Anabuki Station, Oshima Station and Sadamitsu Station.

By foot

Although the city is rather spread out, some places can be visited by foot. The Udatsu Townscape is about 4 km from Anabuki Station. Tera-machi, the temple district, is about a half an hour walk from Sadamitsu Station.

By taxi

• Udatsu Taxi (うだつタクシー Udatsu takushii), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. (updated Mar 2017)
• Mt. Tsurugi Taxi (剣山タクシー Tsurugi-san takushii), ☎ [phone]. (updated Mar 2017)
• Koori Taxi (こおりタクシー Kōri takushii), ☎ [phone]. (updated Mar 2017)

See

Udatsu Townscape

Udatsu townscape

The term Udatsu (うだつ) refers to a traditional architectural element unique to this area of Shikoku that is built into the long rows of shop houses. It consists of a brick and stucco wall that juts out of the second floor roof-line between two homes or shops. This allows for not only added privacy from one's immediate neighbor, but was also intended to be flame blocking fixture in the event the connecting apartment were to catch fire.

• 🌍 Udatsu Townscape (うだつの町並み Udatsu no machi-nami). Straight from the Edo and Meiji Eras, Udatsu Townscape is a symbol of Wakimachi’s old days. Characteristic of the buildings are the presence of “Udatsu,” extensions of the roof that served as protection from the spread of fires. Udatsu were also symbols of fortune, and continue to proclaim the prosperity of the merchants even today. The charm of the old town continues to excite nostalgia, as the broadcast industry often features it in television dramas and commercials. The national government recognizes Udatsu Street as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings. Entrance free, free parking at Ai Rando Udatsu 9AM-5PM. 
• 🌍 Yoshida Residence (藍商佐直 吉田家住宅 Aishō Sanao Yoshida-ke Jūtaku), ☎ [phone]. Daily 9AM-5:30PM. The residence of the Yoshida family. This family traded in indigo, a product for which the region was famous. It was constructed in 1792 by Sagawaya Naoei, who changed his name to Yoshida Naoei. Next to the Yoshida residence is the aigura, a building which was used by the Yoshida family to store indigo. Nowadays the first floor is a gift shop, and the second floor is a cafe. adults ¥500, children ¥250, ncludes entry to the Wakimachi Theater. 

Wakimachi Area

Wakimachi Theater

• 🌍 Wakimachi Theater (脇町劇場 Wakimachi gekijō), Wakimachi, ōaza-Inoshiri, Aza-Nishibu 140−1, ☎ [phone]. W-M 9AM-5PM, closed Dec 27-Jan1. Built in 1934, Wakimachi Theater was a playhouse for Kabuki, Rōkyoku (storytelling accompanied with Shamisen music), and other such entertainment. In the post-World War II era, it became a movie theater, and was then closed in 1995. It was scheduled for demolition, but after Shōchiku Films decided to used it as a location in their famous film, The Man Who Catches Rainbows,it was brought back into the limelight. The theater is now also known as the Odeon-za (Odeon theater), which was its name in the movie. The theater underwent restoration in 1999. adults ¥200; discount for groups of 15 or bigger; prices may differ when there is a performance. 
• 🌍 Former Nagaoka Residence (旧長岡家住宅 Kyū Nagaoka-ke Jūtaku), Wakimachi, ōaza-Inoshiri, Aza-Nishiueno 34, ☎ [phone] (Mima City Board of Education). Tu-Su 9AM-5PM, closed Dec 28-Jan 4. The former Nagaoka Residence used to be at the foot of the southern slopes of the Sanuki Mountains. In 1976 the residence was awarded the status of 'Important Cultural Property'. In 1979 it was disassembled and reassabled in the Wakimachi area. The house is 12 m long and 6.6 m wide. It has a Yosemune-style thatched roof. The outside walls aren't made from the usual cedar tree bark or wooden planks, but from mud and earth. This is characteristic for houses on the foot of the southern slopes of the Sanuki mountains (as there is very little rainfall here). 
• De Rijke Dam (デ・レイケ砂防ダム De-Reike Sabō-damu), Wakimachi, ōaza-Kitashō, Aza-Shibatoko 91-3. This anti-erosion dam, the Ōtani River Dam, was built under the supervision of Dutch civil engineer Johannis de Rijke between 1886 and 1887. During the time in which De Rijke was active in Japan (1873-1903), several of these dams were built in the Tokushima region, but this is the only one that has been preserved. In 2002 the dam was awarded the status of Nationally Registered Tangible Cultural Property. 
• 🌍 Anmitsukan (あんみつ館), Wakimachi, ōaza-Kitashō 551-2, ☎ [phone]. 8:30AM-5PM, closed Dec 31-Jan 1. Flower exhibit and store. Mima is known for the cymbidium orchid, which blooms late November to March. Free parking. 
• 🌍 Saimyō Temple (最明寺 Saimyō-ji), 脇町北庄1308, ☎ [phone]. Temple number 3 on the Fudō Myō-ō 36 Temple Route. This temple was constructed during the Tenpyō era (729-748). 

Tera-machi

Mima is home to several temples with long histories, showing that the region has been culturally advanced since earlier times. During the Kōfun period (3rd-6th century) large grave tombs were built here, and with the spread of Buddhism during the Hakuhō period (645-715), an enormous temple complex was established. The complex consisted of 7 main buildings, which was unheard of for the countryside. The Tera-machi area, also known as Temple Town, is considered to be made up of the Anraku, Ganshō, Saikyō and Rinshō temples, located in the Mima-chō area, near the Sadamitsu train station.

A volunteer guide can be booked for a tour along the temples in tera-machi, in accordance with your personal schedule and preferences. You can contact the Anraku temple for bookings ([phone]). Bookings need to be made at least one week in advance.

Anraku Temple Red Gate

• Anraku Temple (安楽寺 Anraku-ji), Mima-chō, Aza-Miyanishi 11, ☎ [phone]. This famous temple is the oldest and most influential Jōdo Shinshū (Pure Land Buddhism) temple of Shikoku. It is also known for its Nō theatre stage, where every year there are Nō and Kyōgen performances. Its vermillion-laquered, multistoried gate is known as the Red Gate, and is one of the five biggest gates in the prefecture. 
• Ganshō Temple (願勝寺 Ganshō-ji), Mima-chō, Aza-Ganshōji 8, ☎ [phone]. This temple was constructed during the Nara period (710-794), and is home to the oldest dry landscape garden in Shikoku, which is believed to be constructed during the Nanbokuchō period (1336-1392). It has been constructed with ishigumi, the same stone arranging technique used in Kyoto's Tenryū Temple. 
• Saikyō Temple (西教寺 Saikyō-ji), Mima-chō, Aza-Miyanishi 13, ☎ [phone]. This Jōdo Shinshū temple was of a comparable status with the Anraku Temple during the Hansei period (1603-1867). A notable sight is the more than 200-year-old Hikaku Pine Tree, and one of the temples treasures is the over 750-year-old statue of St. Shinran, the founder of the Jōdo Shinshū sect. 
• Rinshō Temple (林照寺 Rinshō-ji), Mima-chō, Aza-Miyanishi 17, ☎ [phone]. This Jōdo Shinshū temple was built at the end of the Muromachi period (1336-1573). Next to the Chinese-style front gate there is a famous, large gingko nut tree, which turns a beautiful golden-yellow in late autumn. 
• Jōnen Temple (常念寺 Jōnen-ji), Mima-chō, Aza-Muneshige 63, ☎ [phone]. This temple, also part of the Jōdo Shinshū sect, has a 1490-m² garden in front of the main entrance, called the Garden of Peace. 
• Izanami Shrine (伊射奈美神社 Izanami-jinja). The Izanami shrine is one of the eleven shrines in in the Mima region that were listed in the Engi-shiki. The Engi-shiki was completed in 927, during the Heian period (794-1185), and contained a summary of all the shrines throughout the country. There were seven shrines in the entire list that were named after Izanagi, but this shrine was the only one named after Izanami. It is thought that in many of the Izanagi shrines, Izanami was also worshipped, but the fact that the Izanami shrine is explicity named after the goddess might have some special significance to it. 
• Ikezuki Park (池月公園 Ikezuki kōen) (In the marshy paddy field region of the Mima-chō area). The park was named for the famous horse Ikezuki, which belonged to Shogun Yoritomo, and was ridden by commander Sasaki Takatsuna, during the Genpei War (1180-1185). The park features the gravesite of Ikezuki’s mother. 
• Aoki Residence (青木家住宅 Aoki-ke jūtaku). The Aoki residence was constructed in 1915, as a retirement home for the Aoki family. It sits on a 3,590-㎡ plot of land, which is surrounded by a 2-m-high plaster wall. On the premises are the main living building, a shed, and several two storied storage houses, made from both earth and wood. The main building is approximately 20 m long, and 11 m wide, and features a tatami room, a reception, a bedroom and an earthen floor, among other things. The gabled roof has been built in irimoya-style. In 1998 the residence was awarded the status of nationally designated Tangible Cultural Property. 
• Dan Tombs (段の塚穴 Dan no Tsuka-ana). Dan no tsuka-ana, or the Dan tombs, are two ancient burial mounds located on the point of a river terrace near Mima city’s temple town. Both burial mounds were constructed about 1400 years ago, in the late Kofun period (approximately 250-538). They were constructed 25 meters apart. The eastern, large burial mound is known as the Taiko-tsuka, or ‘Drum tomb’, and the smaller one is known as the Tana-tsuka, or ‘Shelf tomb’. Especially the Taiko-tsuka is remarkable in its construction, making the tombs invaluable for historic research into the Kofun period. In 1942 the tombs were awarded the status of nationally designated Historic Landmarks. The archeological findings and relics from the tombs are on display at the nearby Mima City Folk Museum, which is located on the premises of the Ganshō Temple. 
• Kōzato Haijiato (郡里廃寺跡). 

Anabuki Area

Honraku Temple

• Honraku Temple (本楽寺 Honraku-ji). The Honraku-ji was founded in 828 by the monk Sō-Keiun of the buddhist Shingon sect as a place of meditation, and was initially known as the Rengesan Honraku Temple. In 1131, the restored temple was reopened by the monk Sō-Yūjun. Because of the temple's strategic position, where Mt. Takamaru and the Yoshino River meet, it was used as a fort during the Sengoku period (1467-1568). In the late Tenshō period (1573-1592) the temple, along with several precious objects, was burned to the ground by the Chōsokabe Clan. In 1863 the temple was again destroyed by fire. The next year the temple was rebuilt to its present state, under supervision of the monk Sō-Yūkei. 
• Shirahito Shrine (白人神社 Shirahito-jinja). 
• Shinmei Shrine (神明神社 Shinmei-jinja) (about 100 m SW of the Shirahito Shrine, on top of a hill). A shrine. 
• Mishima Burial Mound (三島古墳群 Mishima kofun gun). 

Koyadaira Area

Miki Residence

• 🌍 Miki Residence (三木家住宅 Miki-ke Jūtaku), 木屋平字貢, ☎ [phone]. Apr-Nov : Sa Su and holidays 10AM-4PM. The Miki residence, a traditional wooden house with a thatched roof was built around the start of the Edo period (1603-1867). It shows characteristic elements of old samurai residences. Being the oldest surviving privately owned house in Tokushima prefecture, in 1976 the residence was awarded the status of Important Cultural Property. Furthermore, 45 ancient scrolls dating back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333) and Muromachi period (1336-1573) were found here. These scrolls were awarded the status of Prefecturally Recognized Cultural Property. According to several medieval texts, the Miki family had close connections to the Awa Inbe clan, which was responsible for ceremonial affairs at the imperial court. The Miki family takes care of the residence. Next to the Miki Residence is the Miki Residence Museum. Free. 
• 🌍 Kawai Mountain Pass Weeping Cherry Trees (川井峠のシダレザクラ Kawai-tōge no shidarezakura) (on Route 438 near the Kawai Tunnel). On the slope of the mountain, there are about 20 weeping sakura (cherry blossom) trees. Sakura blooming season is generally between late March and mid April. The weeping sakura trees bloom about one week after the regular trees (which aren't on a slope). 
• Folklore Museum (民俗資料館 Minzoku shiryōkan), ☎ [phone]. Apr-Nov: 9AM-4:30PM, closed on the 2nd and 3rd Wed each month except Jul and Aug). Old texts, tools and objects from the area are on display. Free. 

Do

Hiking

Mt. Tsurugi

• Mt. Tsurugi (剣山 Tsurugi-san). With a height of 1955 m, this is the second highest mountain in western Japan. At the top, there are splendid panoramic views of the area, and on clear days one can see as far as the Seto Inland Sea. Mt. Tsurugi opens on May first, as it is closed during winter. From the top of the cable car, it's about a 40-minute climb to the summit. From the Mt. Tsurugi summit, you can also walk to the summits of neighboring mountains. Ichinomori (1879 m) is about a 50-minute walk to the east. Jirogyu (1929 m) is about a 60-minute walk to the west. For more info on the mountain and area around it, see Iya Valley. (updated Mar 2017)
• Mt. Tsurugi Cable Lift (剣山観光登山リフト Tsurugi-san kankō tozan rifuto), Miyoshi, Higashiiya sugeoi 205-2, Minokoshi, ☎ [phone]. mid-Apr-late Nov: 9AM-4:45PM; Jul 23-Aug 28: 8AM-5:45PM; may close in bad weather. A cable car going most of the way up Mt. Tsurugi. one-way adults ¥1000, children ¥500; round-trip adults ¥1800, children ¥850; group discounts available. 

Sports

• Mimuragaoka Skysports Site (美村が丘スカイスポーツサイト Mimuragaoka sukaisupōtsu saito), 脇町字東大谷18, ☎ [phone]. Beginner-level paragliding. 
• Sky Trek Paraglider School (スカイトレックパラグライダースクール Sukai torekku paraguraidā sukūru), ☎ [phone]. 
• Mima Sky Sports (美馬スカイスポーツ Mima Sukai Supōtsu), 美馬市美馬町三頭山, ☎ [phone]. Open year round. Advanced level paragliding. 
• Mima Motor Land (美馬美馬モーターランド Mima Mōtārando) (30 minutes by car from Sadamitsu Station.), ☎ [phone]. late Mar-early Dec: Sa and holidays 9AM-5PM, closed in case of rain. Motorcross track. The track is 1.6 km long, and between 5-8 m wide. ¥2000. 
• Shikoku Country Club (四国カントリークラブ Shikoku kantorii kurabu), Anabuki-chō, Anabuki, Aza-Okanoue 200, ☎ [phone]. Golf club. 
• Grass Skiing (グラススキー Gurasu sukii), 木屋平字太合カケ445-1, ☎ [phone]. Th-Tu 9AM-4:30PM, late Apr to late Nov. Located on the Nakoyama Plateau (中尾山高原 Nakoyama Kōgen). In 2000, the Junior World Championships Grass Skiing were held here. Equipment can be rented. 

Watersports

Fishing is popular on the Anabuki River. Amego season opens in March, and Ayu season opens in June.

• Amembo Kayaking and Canoeing, Mima-chō, Nakatori area, ☎ [phone], [phone]. Kayaking and canoeing on the Yoshinogawa River. 

Fruit picking

• Nakōyama Chestnut Park (中尾山栗園 Nakōyama kuri-en), Koyadaira, Aza-Taigōkake, ☎ [phone] (Koyadaira Branch Office). Mid-late Sep. The entrance to the chestnut park is free, as is the amount of chestnuts you can collect yourself. Don't forget to bring barbeque tongs, working gloves and a collection basket. Free. 
• Yokogura's Tourist Apple Gardens (横倉観光りんご園 Yokogura kankō ringo-en), Wakimachi, Aza-Yokogura, ☎ [phone]. mid-Aug-late Sep: 8AM-6PM. In the Nakagawa apple garden, one can pick and taste "Ietake Tsuruga" and sour "Sansa" apples, while at Kanezaki apple garden, one can taste the sweet "Tsugaru". Adults ¥1000, children ¥500. 
• Shidehara Blueberry Garden, Anabuki-chō, Kuchiyama, Aza-Shidehara, ☎ [phone]. Jun-Aug. Blueberry picking. (updated Mar 2017)
• Berry Berry Farm Wakimachi, Wakimachi, Kitashō (North of Anmitsukan), ☎ [phone]. Jun-Aug. Blueberry picking. 

Festivals

January

• Burning of New Year's gate decorations at Shirahito shrine (白人神社どんど焼き Shirahito-jinja dondo yaki). January 15th. 

February

• Shirahito shrine o-mato archery festival (白人神社御的祭 Shirahito-jinja o-mato matsuri), ☎ [phone]. The 14th day of the first month of the old Japanese calendar. According to an old legend, the samurai Minamoto Tametomo (1139-1177) visited emperor Sutoku Jōkō (1119-1156), who had fled to Sanuki in Kagawa prefecture after the Hōgen Revolt of 1156. Tametomo stood on the Aiguri ridge, on the border of Kagawa and Tokushima prefectures, and shot his bow. The arrow flew towards the Anabuki region, and finally landed at the Shirahito shrine. Nowadays, the bow in question is kept as a treasure at this shrine, and an archery contest is held every year. 

April

Grass ski slope at the Nakōyama plateau

• Opening of facilities on the Nakōyama plateau (中尾山高原開き Nakōyama kōgen hiraki). Late April. 
• Sakura viewing. Early to mid April. Particularly the cherry blossom at the Yaoyorozu-no-kami-no-goten Shrine, and the shidarezakura (weeping cherry blossoms) of the Kawai Pass. 
• Shinyama Taishi holy fire memorial service (新山大師護摩供養 Shinyama taishi goma kuyō). 21st day of the 3rd month of the old Japanese calendar. Buddhist memorial service for the former Buddhist teacher of Shinyama. 
• Mt. Ōtaki spring fesitval (大滝山春まつり～西照神社御神楽・大滝寺柴燈護摩 ōtaki-san haru matsuri ~ Nishiteru-jinja mikagura / ōtaki-ji saitō goma). 4th Sunday of April. Mikagura (ancient Shinto music) at the Nishitera shrine, and a holy fire at the ōtaki temple. 

May

• Opening of Mt. Tsurugi (剣山山開き Tsurugi-san yamabiraki). May 1st. Start of the climbing season for Mt. Tsurugi. Due to snow, Mt. Tsurugi can't be climbed during winter. Activities start around 10:30AM, and include the carrying of a mikoshi portable shrine. 

July

• Great holy fire at the Mt. Tsurugi Ryūkō temple (剣山龍光寺本坊柴燈大護摩 Tsurugi-san ryūkō-ji honbō saitō daigoma). July 15th. 
• Carrying of the o-mikoshi (miniature shrine) at the Ryūkō temple (剣山龍光寺御輿渡御 Tsurugi-san ryūkō-ji omikoshi togyo). July 16th. 
• Carrying of the o-mikoshi (miniature shrine) at the Mt. Tsurugi Hongū shrine (剣山本宮御輿渡御 Tsurugi-san hongū omikoshi togyo), ☎ [phone]. July 17th. If the 17th is not a Sunday, it takes place on the next following Sunday.. 

August

• Anabuki river homemade rafting tournament (穴吹川筏下り大会 Anabuki-gawa ikada sagari taikai). First Sunday of the month. People from all over participate in homemade rafts on a 5-km or 2.5-km course on the Anabuki river. Teams compete for fastest times and best-looking raft. 
• Mima city fireworks display/Awa-odori event (美馬市花火大会・阿波踊り大会 Mima-shi hanabi taikai / awa-odori taikai). Middle of the month. 
• Koyadaira Midori-to-Fureai (closeness with green) summer festival (木屋平緑とふれあい夏祭り Koyadaira midori to fureai natsu matsuri). August 15. 
• Mimuragaoka summer festival (美村が丘夏祭り Mimura-ga-oka natsu matsuri). Late August. 
• Summer festival at Shikoku Saburō-no-Sato (四国三郎の郷サマーフェスティバル Shikoku saburō no sato samāfesutibaru). Late August. This event is held every year at the Yoshino Riverside Plaza, adjacent to the Shikoku Saburō-no-Sato, and features many events, from concerts to fireworks, canoeing and Awa-odori performances. Many families come here to enjoy the final days of their summer vacation together. 
• Awa-odori dance performance by the Anabuki Ginza-kai group (穴吹銀座会阿波踊り Anabuki ginza-kai awa-odori). Late August. 

September

• Kuchiyama hassaku dance (口山八朔踊り Kuchiyama hassaku odori). Last day of the 7th month of the old Japanese calendar. 
• Udatsu festival (うだつまつり Udatsu matsuri). Events in the Udatsu street area. Some years, the popular television character Mito Kōmon (水戸黄門) participates in parades. 

October

• O-neri spear procession at Santō shrine (三頭神社お練り Santō-jinja oneri). October 16. 
• Mt. Tsurugi autumn colours festival (剣山紅葉まつり Tsurugi-san kōyō matsuri). Mid October. 
• Mima city's shrines autumn festival (美馬市内神社秋祭り Mima shinai jinja aki matsuri). 

November

• Mima city cultural festival (美馬市文化祭 Mima-shi bunka sai). Early November. 
• Mimuragaoka walking competition (美村が丘ウォーキング大会 Mimura-ga-oka wōkingu taikai). Late November. 

December

• Shamisen mochi-tsuki (三味線もちつき Shamisen mochi-tsuki). Pounding steamed rice into the dough that is used for making rice cakes, accompanied by shamisen. During the Edo period (1603-1867), when Wakimachi was a flourishing merchant town, merchants used to hire geisha to play the shamisen, and workers to pound the rice, while singing a mochi song. This was done at the end of the year. It is thought that this is how this tradition started. The current mochi-tsuki/shamisen group participates in various events. 

Buy

Like many other Japanese cities and towns, Mima city has several famous local food products. Famous agricultural products from Mima are yuzu citrons, grapes and hassaku oranges. Yuzu are harvested in autumn, and are used in the production of, for example, yuzu juice. Hassaku are harvested before the end of December, and are then stored until they are fully ripened (around February). These oranges are slightly sour. Another famous food product is Mima-kara, a spicy condiment (kara means spicy) which is essentially a mix of organically grown green chili peppers boiled down in soy sauce. There are also four local sake breweries in Mima city, namely Tsukasagiku, Myōjō, ōga and Shinomiya. These all sell their own, hand-made sake. Another famous local drink is 'Mima-no-Sato', a shōchū (Japanese gin), made from Kintoki potatoes. Wagasa (Japanese paper umbrellas) and Awa-uchiwa (Awa fans) are traditionally hand-made in Mima. In the past, more than 200 umbrella shops existed in the city.

• 🌍 Anmitsukan (あんみつ館), ☎ [phone]. The Cymbidium is a western type of orchid. Interestingly, the majority of all Cymbidiums worldwide are breeds that were 'born' in Mima. Around 40 different kinds of Cymbidium products are sold here, from Cymbidium hair tonic to wine and tea. (updated Jun 2016)
• 🌍 Jidaiya Village of Bamboo Puppets (竹人形の里時代屋), Wakimachi, Ōaza Wakimachi 124, ☎ [phone]. 9AM-6PM. This store in the Udatsu street area sells bamboo puppets (竹人形 take-ningyō), that are depicted dancing the Awa-odori dance. 
• 🌍 Airando Udatsu Rest Area (道の駅藍ランドうだつ Michi no eki airando udatsu), Wakimachi, Ōaza-Wakimachi 55, ☎ [phone]. Formerly the indigo warehouse of the Yoshida family, this building has been turned into a cafe and shop. The cafe allows for lunches as well as coffee, while the shop sells all sorts of local products, such as Mima-kara and indigo-dyed clothes and accessories. 

Eat

• 🌍 Seasonal Dishes Moritomo (四季料理森友 Shiki ryōri moritomo), Wakimachi, Ōaza-Inoshiri 779-3602. W-M 11AM-2PM, 5PM-9PM. 
• 🌍 Matsuri-zushi (祭り寿司 脇町店 Matsuri-zushi wakimachi-ten), 脇町猪尻建神社下南202-1, ☎ [phone]. 11:30AM-10PM. A conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Cheap plates are ¥105. 
• 🌍 Maharajah Spice (マハラジャスパイス), 脇町大字猪尻若宮南118-6, ☎ [phone]. 11AM-3PM, 5:30PM-10PM. A small Indian restaurant. Naan, rice and salad are all-you-can-eat. The main attraction has to be the naan; they serve about 15 kinds, ranging from plain and bacon naan to mentaiko (fish egg) and caramel butter naan. ¥1000 and up. 

Drink

• 🌍 Maruza Chikuan (まるざ竹庵), 脇町猪尻建神社下南170−1, ☎ [phone]. Su-Th 11AM-midnight, F Sa 11AM-2PM; lunch 11AM-3PM. An izakaya with private rooms. 
• 🌍 Quench Cafe Premiere (プレミエ Puremie), Wakimachi, Haibara 2057-1, ☎ [phone]. 9AM-10PM. A relatively new cafe, that serves (ice) coffee, tea, cakes, and dinner sets, among others. 
• 🌍 Cafe Kadoya (cafe 角屋), Wakimachi, Ōaza-Wakimachi 152-1, ☎ [phone]. F-W 10AM-5PM. A cute little cafe in an old building right on the Udatsu street (across the waterwell). The menu isn't very large, but the atmosphere is nice and laidback. 

Sleep

Wakimachi interchange/Anabuki river area

• 🌍 Anabuki Onsen (穴吹温泉), Anabuki-chō, Kuchiyama, Aza-Fumichō 1028-1, ☎ [phone]. Check-in: 3PM-7PM, check-out: 10AM. A Japanese style hotel, with onsen (hot spring bath), located in the mountains south of Anabuki station. There are both regular rooms and pensions (the latter is specifically aimed at groups). For a small fee, the baths can also be used separately from the hotel. 
• Aburaya Mima-kan (油屋美馬館), Anabukicho Anabuki, Ichinoshimo 100−6 (On top of a hill not far from Anabuki Station.), ☎ [phone]. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 10AM. This hotel offers Western-style and Japanese-style rooms. ¥8000 and up. 
• Business Hotel Matsuka (ビジネスホテルマツカ), Wakimachi, ōaza-Inoshiri, Aza-Tatejinja, Shimo-Minami 153-1, ☎ [phone]. Check-in: 3PM-5AM, check-out: 10AM. Western-style hotel not far from Anabuki station (some Japanese rooms also available). ¥5040 and up. 
• Business Hotel Inada-en (ビジネスホテル稲田苑), Wakimachi, Haibara 1001-1, ☎ [phone]. A Western-style hotel with single and twin rooms. ¥5040 and up. 
• Blue Villa Anabuki (ブルーヴィラあなぶき), Mima, Anabukicho Kuchiyama, Maruyama 1 (a five-minute drive south of Anabuki Station), ☎ [phone]. Cottages for 4-6 people (per cottage). Barbeques can be rented, and a restaurant is also available. ¥8400 and up, including 2 meals. 
• Kappō Ryokan Taoka (割烹旅館田おか), Wakimachi, Ōaza-Wakimachi 165, ☎ [phone]. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 10AM. A very small ryokan in the Udatsu street area. Includes large and lavish meals. Cash only, reservations only by phone. ¥15,750 including two meals. 
• Zeniya Ryokan (ぜにや旅館), Wakimachi Ōaza Wakimachi 170, ☎ [phone]. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 10AM. ¥4500 and up. 
• Komatsu-ya Ryokan (小松屋旅館), Wakimachi Ōaza Wakimachi 117-1, ☎ [phone]. ¥3500 and up. 
• Waki Plaza Hotel (脇プラザホテル), Wakimachi, Haibara 2020-3, ☎ [phone]. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 10AM. ¥5300 and up. 
• Fujinoya Ryokan (富士の家旅館), Wakimachi, Aza-Soemyō 354-3, ☎ [phone]. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 9AM. ¥6000 and up, including 2 meals. 
• Mimuragaoka (美村が丘), Wakimachi, Aza-Higashiōtani 18, ☎ [phone]. Open Apr-Dec. Closed the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month. ¥5000 for a room, ¥10,000 for a cottage. 

Koyadaira/Mt. Tsurugi area

• Ichinomori mountain cabin (一の森ヒュッテ Ichinomori hyutte), Koyadaira, Aza-Kawakamikake 571, ☎ [phone] (in season), [phone] (out of season). About 1.5 km east from the Mt. Tsurugi summit. Opened from April 28 until early November (reservations can be made until November 5). ¥6000 (including 2 meals). 
• Mt. Tsurugi summit mountain cabins (剣山頂上ヒュッテ Tsurugi-san chōjō hyutte), Koyadaira, Aza-Kawakamikake 570, ☎ [phone]. Opened from April 28 until November 23. ¥4800. 
• Minshuku Matsu'ura (民宿 まつうら), ☎ [phone]. Bed & breakfast 100 m from the Minokoshi lift station. Enough room for groups. ¥6500 (including 2 meals); ¥3500 (without meals). 
• Maruishi Parkland (丸石パークランド Maruishi pākurando), 徳島県三好郡東祖谷山村名頃, ☎ [phone] (daytime), [phone] (nighttime). Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 10AM. Hotel/campsite next to the Okuiya suspension bridge (奥祖谷二重かずら橋 Okuiya nijū kazura bashi), not far from the Mt. Tsurugi lift. Opened from late April until late November. ¥8400 (including 2 meals); ¥5250 (without meals). Cabins and a campingsite are also available. 
• Tsuruginoyu ōzakura (つるぎの湯 大桜), Koyadaira, Aza-Kawai 270, ☎ [phone]. Check-in: 11AM-9PM. Closed on Mondays. For a small fee, the baths can also be used by people who aren't staying at the hotel. ¥4700. 
• Heiseisō (中尾山高原平成荘), Koyadaira, Aza-Taigōkake 445-1, ☎ [phone]. Check-in: 8AM-5PM. Opened from 4th Saturday of April until 2nd Sunday of November. Closed on Wednesdays. ¥7500 (including 2 meals). 

Mima interchange area

• 🌍 Shikoku Saburō-no-Sato (四国三郎の郷), Mima-chō, Aza-Sakaime 39-10, ☎ [phone]. Check-in: 9AM-5PM. Campsite, open all year. Also has indoor meeting place and barbeque sites, etc. Regular site ¥3500, cottage ¥12,000, RV site ¥6000. 

Connect

Internet cafe

• 🌍 Funky Time Wakimachi (ファンキータイム脇町店 Fankītaimu wakimachi-ten), Wakimachi ōaza Inoshiri, Tatejinjashimominami 158-2, ☎ [phone]. An internet cafe. (updated Mar 2017)

Go next

• Check out the tidal whirlpools at Naruto, but confirm the times before you go — they can only be seen at certain times.
• Shopping or sightseeing in Tokushima, about an hour by train from Anabuki station.
• Experience the roots of Japan in the hidden Iya Valley, just south of Mima.
• For white water river rafting head over to Oboke/Koboke
• Enjoy the capital of Ehime prefecture, Matsuyama, and take a dip in the famous Dōgo onsen spa.
• Visit the capital of Kagawa prefecture, which is also the biggest city on Shikoku, Takamatsu, beyond the mountains to the north of Mima.
• Visit the small amusement park (吉野川遊園地 Yoshinogawa yūenchi) between Nishioe and Kamojima stations (about a 10-minute walk east from Nishioe). It has a rollercoaster, go carts and a ferris wheel, among other things. Opened from 9AM-5PM (until 6PM in the summer).