The southern part of Tokushima prefecture is a treasure trove of spots to see the first sunrise of the New Year! However, as it's dotted with numerous marvelous locations, it might be difficult to decide where to go.

To help make things easier, this time we will introduce 3 spots that offer relatively easy access! 

First off is the 1^st observation deck along the Minami Awa Sun Line.

As it's located within 10km of central Hiwasa, it’s easily accessible. In the parking area you can also find fully equipped washroom facilities.

Around New Year, you can see the sun rising up from the sea horizon, and if you're lucky, you might even get to see a "Daruma sunrise" mirage!

Another spot we recommend to see the first sunrise of the year is also along the Awa Minami Sun Line course. The 4^th observation deck is located around 10km further to the west from the 1^st observation deck. It's quite far from any city areas, but here too you will find a parking area equipped with toilet facilities.

Mugi-oshima Island floats in the vicinity, and as the sunrise reaches the island silhouette, you may see a dream-like sight!

In terms of scenic beauty, we recommend the 4^th observation deck over the 1^st! 

The third spot we recommend is Mitoko Bay, which is located near the southernmost tip of Tokushima prefecture.

Famous for its picturesque scenery, islands of various sizes float in the bay!

Around New Year, the sun rises from right behind a group of smaller islands!

There are some slightly thicker clouds in this photograph, but the morning sun shines brightly turning it into a divine spectacle! 

Due to being eroded by waves over millennia, Mitoko Bay has a deeply indented coastline. You can see plenty of strangely shaped rocks and stones that some say resemble animals such as the lion or the alligator. There are colorful tropical fish swimming in the clear ocean, and the Blue Marine tourist boat that tours the Takegashima Marine Park departs nearby!

Of course, the scenery visible changes according to the weather conditions and the level of cloudiness. Depending on their combination at your location and the scenery around you, you may see even more impressive sunrises! 

This is our most recommended location to spend a relaxed New Year! 

How about welcoming the first sunrise of the year in southern Tokushima prefecture? 

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Minami Awa Sun Line (1st & 4th observation decks)
Location: Nada, Mugi, Kaifu district, Tokushima prefecture
Parking: Available (toll-free)
http://www.town.minami.tokushima.jp/kanko/spots/07sunline.html (Japanese)

Mitoko Bay
Location: Shishikuiura, Kaiyo, Kaifu district, Tokushima prefecture
Parking: No parking area available (You can find a spacious parking space in front of Kasekirenkon ('fossil ripple marks') a little further along from the observation point.
http://www.awanavi.jp/spot/2013032500811/ (Japanese)

  
Setouchi Finder Photo-writer: Hironobu Matsuoka