Top 27 Popular Tourist Spots in Awaji Island! Introducing recommended spots for family trips and dates

Scenic Tourist Spots Overlooking the Sea in Awaji Island

Seto Inland Sea National Park

Seto Inland Sea National Park consists of the eastern area, including Osaka Bay, Kitan Strait, and Harima-nada, and the western area, including Kanmon Strait, Iyo-nada, and Aki-nada. It was designated as Japan's first national park in 1934.

The calm Seto Inland Sea, separated from the open ocean, not only creates unique landscapes but also benefits from the high-quality plankton flowing into the sea from the mountains of the mainland and Shikoku. As a result, it is an area flourishing with aquaculture in addition to being a popular tourist destination. It is utilized not only for tourism but also as fishing grounds.

As a tourist resource, there are numerous small and large islands scattered throughout the area, and driving tours using the bridges that connect these islands have become popular. Among them, the Shimanami Kaido, a approximately 60-kilometer route connecting Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture and Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture, is a classic route for exploring Shikoku. The Shimanami Kaido utilizes a total of seven bridges, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views of the sea and mountains from your car window. Moreover, each bridge has its own unique shape and design, making it a great spot for photography along with the surrounding landscapes.

Wakamono Hiroba Park

Wakamono Hiroba Park is a park that features the "Monument to the Souls of the Young," designed by the world-renowned architect Kenzo Tange. In addition to Wakamono Hiroba Park, Kenzo Tange has also designed the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium, among others.

To introduce what the "Monument to the Souls of the Young" is, its history dates back to 1939. As you may know, during World War II, which began in 1939, many people lost their lives. Among them were numerous students who were dedicated to their studies. Many of them worked in military factories, and some even went to the battlefront. The total number of students involved was approximately 4 million, and tragically, 200,000 lives were lost.

In order to remember the sorrow of these students, preserve history, and pay tribute to them, the "Monument to the Souls of the Young" was constructed in 1967. Rising 25 meters high with a pointed tip, its presence conveys the horrors of war to future generations.

Although it was temporarily closed due to events such as the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, the park underwent redevelopment in 2015 and is now utilized not only for tourism but also as a place for citizens to relax.

• Address: 2658-7 Amano Shioyacho, Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 20 minutes by car from the center of Minamiawaji City

Eshima Island

Eshima Island is a small island located at the northern tip of Awaji Island and is part of the Awaji Japan Heritage, which consists of 31 cultural properties. The Japan Heritage is a new certification system that started in 2015 as part of a project by the Agency for Cultural Affairs to promote the attractiveness and history of regions and revitalize local communities.

Eshima Island is one of the legendary places in the "Kuni-zumari Myth," which tells the story of the two gods, Izanagi and Izanami, creating the islands that make up the Japanese archipelago. The island exposes layers of sandstone from approximately 20 million years ago, and its rugged yet beautiful appearance has made it a popular tourist spot.

Being a place mentioned in mythology, Eshima Island is also known for its numerous waka poems. One of the notable ones is a waka by Saigyo, a warrior, monk, and poet who was active from the late Heian period to the early Kamakura period. The waka, "Chidori naku Eshima no ura ni sumu tsuki o nami ni utsushite miru koyoi kana" (Tonight, I gaze at the moon reflecting in the waves on Eshima's shore, where the plovers cry), is associated with this location.

• Address: 884-4 Iwaya, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 30 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Popular Tourist Spots to Enjoy Flowers and Greenery in Awaji Island

Awaji Hanasajiki

Awaji Hanasajiki is one of the prefectural parks that was born as part of Hyogo Prefecture's efforts to transform from the "island of earthquakes" to the "island of flowers" in 1998.

Located on the slopes of small hills ranging from 298 to 235 meters above sea level, this park offers a variety of flowers to enjoy throughout the year in expansive fields that stretch towards the sea. From the top of the hills, you can also enjoy panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.

Due to its location in the mild climate zone of the Seto Inland Sea, you can appreciate various flowers such as rapeseed flowers in spring, sunflowers in summer, salvias in autumn, and stocks in winter. Stocks are perennial herbs native to southern Europe, known for their various colors, including purple, pink, yellow, and white. The official website provides detailed information on the blooming forecast and growth conditions throughout the year, so be sure to check if your favorite flowers are in season.

The park covers an area about four times the size of the Koshien Stadium and includes not only the five flower fields mentioned but also a wooden observation deck that offers views of the Akashi Strait and Osaka Bay, as well as a souvenir shop selling local products.

• Address: 2805-7 Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 30 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

National Akashi Kaikyo Park

National Akashi Kaikyo Park is a national park that spans Awaji City in Hyogo Prefecture and Kobe City, with a vast area of 330 hectares. To put it into perspective, it is approximately equivalent to 70 Tokyo Domes in size.

The highlight of the National Akashi Kaikyo Park is undoubtedly the wide variety of flowers cultivated in the region's mild climate. Among the twelve tourist spots within the park, most are popular areas dedicated to flowers.

First, let's take a look at the "Tako-san Greeting Flower Bed," located right next to the Higashiura Gate. It is a creative flower bed in the shape of a local specialty in Akashi, the "octopus," and serves as a picturesque spot for Instagram-worthy photos.

Within the park, there are spots like the "Rainbow of the Earth," where you can enjoy tulips and sunflowers planted along the slopes, and the "Flower Nakaumi," where you can admire the grass and flowers on the opposite bank while riding a swan boat.

With its spacious grounds, you can freely explore without worrying about the surroundings, making it a enjoyable spot for both adults and families with children.

• Address: 8-10 Yumebutai, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 30 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Awaji Yumebutai

Awaji Yumebutai is a comprehensive resort facility located in the nature-rich Awaji City. Designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, who focused on the coexistence of nature, animals, and humans, the sophisticated buildings create a magnificent landscape. Tadao Ando is one of Japan's leading architects who has worked on projects such as Tokyo's Omotesando Hills and the Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum in Ehime Prefecture.

Adjacent to the National Akashi Kaikyo Park, many visitors enjoy both spots together. One highly recommended facility within Awaji Yumebutai is the "Hyakudanen" (Hundred Steps Garden). Along the slopes of the mountain, 100 flower beds are arranged in a stair-like fashion, creating a breathtaking view. It is best to visit during spring to autumn when the flowers are in bloom, as during the winter months, the soil rests in preparation for the next year.

• Address: 2 Yumebutai, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 30 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Healing Spots for Interacting with Animals in Awaji Island

Awaji Monkey Center

Located in a natural, lush forest that can be reached in about a 40-minute drive from Minamiawaji City, the Awaji Monkey Center is situated on Mt. Kashiwabara, the second highest mountain on Awaji Island.

The center allows visitors to observe and interact with wild monkeys that inhabit Mt. Kashiwabara by feeding them. Unlike traditional zoos, where animals are confined, here you can encounter monkeys in their natural habitat. We hope you enjoy witnessing their behavior, which is not commonly seen in zoos.

As the monkeys are wild, they tend to avoid the facility between late August and early November when they forage for mountain plants. If you want to see the energetic monkeys, we recommend visiting during the winter season when food is scarce in the mountains. The official website provides information on the monthly appearance rate of the monkeys, so please check it before your visit.

• Address: 289 Hatadagumi, Sumoto City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 40 minutes by car from the center of Minamiawaji City

Awaji Farm

When it comes to a tourist farm in Awaji Island where people of all ages can enjoy various experiences, Awaji Farm is the place to go. Within its spacious 3-hectare grounds, you can have fun while interacting with animals and enjoying nature.

A popular activity for children is the "Milk Squeezing Experience," where they can manually milk cows, something they often drink at home or school. Even first-timers can participate with guidance from the staff, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for young children.

For those who love cooking, the "Butter Making Experience" using fresh Awaji milk is also popular. By vigorously shaking milk in a dedicated bottle, the ingredients separate, allowing you to make delicious butter. Butter making requires a bit of physical effort, but the taste of butter made with your own hands is extraordinary.

After various experiences, when you get hungry, enjoy delicious Awaji beef at the barbecue house surrounded by nature. The large area can accommodate up to 300 people, making it suitable for gatherings with friends or colleagues.

• Address: 1 Yakiyojo, Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 4 minutes by car from the center of Minamiawaji City

Awaji Janohire Outdoor Resort

Awaji Janohire Outdoor Resort is located at the southernmost tip of Awaji Island and offers various leisure and activity options.

Within the resort, you can enjoy seven different experiences: Fishing Park, Dolphin Farm, Sea Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP), Daytime BBQ, Horse Riding Experience, and Farming Experience.

One standout feature of the resort is the Dolphin Farm. Visitors can experience activities such as shaking hands and kissing with the dolphins bred in the facility. There is also an opportunity to swim with the dolphins in the sea. You can even try being a trainer and give instructions to the dolphins for them to perform. Dolphins are known to have a calming and relaxing effect, making this experience highly recommended for both children and adults. Shower facilities are available, so you can participate with peace of mind even on a day trip.

• Address: 2660 Amano Shioyacho, Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 20 minutes by car from the center of Minamiawaji City

Popular Theme Parks in Awaji Island for Both Adults and Children

Awaji World Park ONOKORO

Awaji World Park ONOKORO is an amusement park where you can enjoy various experiences, rides, and indoor attractions.

In the experiential attractions, you'll find facilities that allow both adults and children to feel nature up close, such as a total of 362 meters of zip lines and thrilling grass sledding.

For the ride attractions, there are classic attractions like the teacups and go-karts where you can freely drive around a 700-meter course, ensuring fun for families with young children.

In the indoor attractions, you can enjoy experiences like entering a facility that recreates a world with a temperature of minus 20 degrees Celsius or trying out the latest technology in VR.

One of the highlights besides the attractions is the "Miniature World," which reproduces popular tourist spots from around the world. It includes 18 famous landmarks such as the Christchurch Cathedral in New Zealand and the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy. These miniature replicas are so meticulously crafted that they can be mistaken for the real thing, allowing you to enjoy a mini world tour experience.

• Address: 8-5 Shiota Shinden, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 10 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Nijigen no Mori

Nijigen no Mori is a popular tourist spot that can be reached in about a 30-minute drive from Kobe City and offers enjoyment for all generations.

Nijigen no Mori is a theme park that combines anime, technology, and nature. It provides unique experiences by combining real and visual elements, such as ziplines and shooting games, where you can feel like the protagonist of popular Japanese anime such as Dragon Quest, Godzilla, and Naruto. Recently, a limited-time event called "Night Walk" based on Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, where you can experience the battle at Mt. Natagumo while walking through the forest at night, has gained attention.

Within the same facility, "Crayon Shin-chan Adventure Park" offers zip lines and giant athletic equipment for children, allowing families to enjoy a full day of activities together. The park is themed around Crayon Shin-chan, so the design of the facilities matches the world of the anime, making it an enjoyable area even just to look at.

• Address: 2425-2 Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 40 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Awaji Farm Park England Hill

Awaji Farm Park England Hill is a nature-surrounded, multi-faceted theme park where you can enjoy a zoo, hands-on workshops, and Awaji gourmet.

In the zoo area, you can encounter small animals such as beloved koalas and various types of rabbits. The koalas kept here are rare animals, and one of them, reaching 25 years old in 2022, holds the record for the world's longest-lived koala.

The park also has a variety of restaurants where you can savor delicious Awaji gourmet without leaving the premises. One recommended option among the many restaurants is "MooMoo BBQ," which offers terrace seating. You can enjoy Awaji beef and sausages made at the park's workshop while overlooking the scenic lakeside.

• Address: 1401 Yaki Yogamiue, Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 6 minutes by car from the center of Minamiawaji City

These tourist spots can be enjoyed regardless of rain or shine, summer or winter

HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX

HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX is a theater restaurant where you can enjoy authentic vegan cuisine while watching shows featuring characters from Hello Kitty, created by Yuko Shimizu.

The Hello Kitty shows, held inside the theater, combine large LED displays, live jazz performances, and other elements, providing a visually impressive experience even for adults. In addition to Hello Kitty, the dancers and their performances are also highlights of the show.

The accompanying cuisine, which you can enjoy during the show, is vegan, meaning it doesn't include any animal-based ingredients such as meat, fish, eggs, or dairy products. The menu is produced by Haruyuki Yamashita, a world-renowned chef who has been selected as one of the world's best chefs at the World Gourmet Summit, and offers authentic flavors that can satisfy your palate without the use of meat or fish. You can also taste local Awaji specialties such as consommé soup made with Awaji onions.

• Address: 177-5 Nojima Hirabayashi, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 35 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Parchez

Did you know that the Ichinomiya area of Awaji City produces the highest amount of incense in Japan, which is essential for Bon and Buddhist altars? Parchez is a facility where you can enjoy various knowledge and experiences related to fragrances, making it an enjoyable place even on rainy days.

The facility consists of three areas. At the entrance, you can learn about perfumes and various fragrance-related items collected from around the world. You can also observe the process of steam distillation, which extracts essential oils.

In the processing room, you can create your own original perfume by blending your favorite essential oils from a selection of 24 varieties.

The third area is Restaurant Berner, a buffet-style restaurant with about 50 dishes centered around delicious Awaji vegetables.

The facility also has accommodations and a gift shop, allowing you to spend a fulfilling day by making use of these additional features.

• Address: 3025-1 Ozaki, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 15 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Awaji Ningyoza

Awaji Ningyoza is a theater group that has been performing Awaji Puppet Joruri, a traditional puppet theater, for over 500 years in Minamiawaji City. Their performances are designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, recognized as an essential cultural heritage to be passed down to future generations.

The repertoire is regularly updated, and past performances have included "Hidakagawa Jitto Umidashi-ba no Dan" and "Ebisu Mai" (a dance dedicated to Ebisu, the god of wealth).

An interesting initiative is the "First-Time Classic Japanese and Western Fusion," which combines the traditional art of classical ballet with puppetry. This event aims to spread a cultural fusion of Japanese and Western styles that can be enjoyed by both adults and children.

In the building, there is a waiting area where the three deities (Ebisu, Dōkonbō, and Hyottoko) are enshrined. It has become a popular spot known as a hidden power spot. We recommend visiting this area as well.

• Address: 1528-1 Kō, Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 15 minutes by car from the center of Minamiawaji City

Recommended Day Trip Hot Springs and Bathing Facilities in Awaji Island

Sumoto Onsen

Sumoto Onsen is a hot spring area located on the eastern side of Awaji Island, facing Osaka Bay. It is easily accessible by car, approximately 30 minutes from the center of Awaji City and just 6 minutes from the center of Sumoto City, making it a convenient hot spring destination within Awaji Island.

The hot springs, sourced from natural springs, are known for their smooth and milky radon water, which is said to have skin-beautifying effects.

One of the appealing aspects of this area is the variety of accommodations available, ranging from family-friendly options to high-class resorts that are perfect for stylish dates. Among them is "Yumesenkei Bessou Amahara," which was selected as a "5 Red Pavilion" in the 2016 Michelin Guide Hyogo. This hotel features 18 rooms, each offering a panoramic view of the sea and sky of Awaji Island through large windows, creating a sense of openness that attracts many visitors.

In addition to the guest rooms, the exclusive "Garden Lounge" offers a selection of beverages, such as coffee and tea, tailored to different times of the day, providing a supreme relaxation experience.

• Access: 20 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Uzushio Onsen

Uzushio Onsen is a hot spring area located along the coast of Minami Awaji City, at the southern tip of Awaji Island. It is said to be the setting of the creation myth of Izanagi and Izanami, prominent figures in Japanese mythology.

The hot springs in Uzushio Onsen are characterized by their sodium bicarbonate springs, known as "carbonated hydrogen sodium springs." These springs are believed to have exfoliating effects on the skin and are often referred to as "beauty baths." Uzushio Onsen contains a higher concentration of carbonated hydrogen ions compared to the three famous beauty hot springs in Wakayama, Shimane, and Gunma.

In this area, you will find not only hot spring ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) but also a facility called "Yutorikku," where you can enjoy both fitness activities and hot springs simultaneously. This facility offers a combination of a swimming pool, fitness gym, and hot springs, allowing visitors to sweat it out and then relax in the hot springs. Of course, you can also enjoy the hot springs alone without using the fitness facilities.

For those who wish to stay overnight, the "Sunset View Hotel Kehi no Umi - Uzushio Onsen" is highly recommended. The beach in front of the hotel has been selected as one of "Japan's Top 100 Sunsets," "Japan's Top 100 Beaches," and "Japan's Top 88 Swimming Beaches," providing a stunning backdrop while you enjoy the hot springs and delicious meals.

• Access: 20 minutes by car from the center of Minami Awaji City

Biyu Matsuhono Sato

Biyu Matsuhono Sato is a bathing facility overlooking the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, known as the "Pearl Bridge," and is easily accessible as it is located at the entrance of Awaji Island. There is also a free shuttle bus available from Iwaya Port Building, which serves as the gateway to the ferry, making it accessible even without a car.

The facility offers both indoor and outdoor baths, and the open-air baths provide a superb view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, creating a sense of openness. The hot springs are natural radon springs, known for their ability to eliminate toxins from the body.

The onsite restaurant, "Bokairo," serves local specialties of Awaji Island, such as fresh shirasu (whitebait) rice bowls and Awaji beef bowls. Don't miss their seasonal menus! You can also dine at the restaurant without using the hot springs.

• Address: 3570-77 Iwaya, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 40 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Tourist Spots that Touch the History of Awaji Island

Onokoro Island Shrine

Onokoro Island Shrine is known for enshrining gods of matchmaking and safe childbirth, attracting numerous tourists every year. According to the descriptions in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, it is said that Japan's land was created by two gods, Izanagi and Izanami, and this shrine is considered the birthplace of that story.

The first thing you'll notice when visiting the shrine is the vermilion-painted grand torii gate, standing at a height of 21.7 meters. Built in 1978, it has become a symbol of Onokoro Island Shrine. After passing through the gate, you'll come across the "Sango no Matsu," also known as the "Three-Pronged Pine," which represents good fortune. While typical pine branches split into two, the pine trees at this shrine split into three, making them a symbol of good luck.

In recent years, collecting goshuin, a seal stamp given as a shrine visit souvenir, has become popular. Onokoro Island Shrine also offers goshuin, and the design changes according to the season. The goshuin received in March features Hina dolls, while in April, it depicts cherry blossoms, and in May, it showcases carp streamers. With the designs changing each year, collecting these stamps as a memento of your visit can be an interesting experience.

• Address: 415 Enobeshimotsu, Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 5 minutes by car from the center of Minamiawaji City

Kita-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Park

The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake that occurred on January 17, 1995, was one of the major disasters in Japan's history, claiming the lives of over 6,000 people. Kita-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Park was created with the purpose of conveying the tragic scenes of the earthquake to future generations and ensuring that such a disaster is never repeated.

The Nojima Fault Preservation Museum in the park preserves the Nojima Fault that appeared during the Southern Hyogo Prefecture Earthquake, allowing visitors to witness the natural wonder firsthand. The museum also displays a model of the collapsed National Route 43 and photo panels depicting the scenes of the earthquake.

In another area, there is a "Memorial House" that utilizes a house that remained intact despite the disaster, where the "Storytelling of the Earthquake" activity continues to pass on the circumstances of that time.

The Earthquake Experience Hall allows visitors to experience the shaking caused by the Southern Hyogo Prefecture Earthquake and the Great East Japan Earthquake. The realistic tremors, which cannot be conveyed through words or images, make it not only a tourist attraction but also a recommended extracurricular activity for children.

• Address: 177 Ogura, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 30 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Honpukuji Mizumido

Honpukuji is an ancient temple believed to have been built during the Heian period, and Mizumido, the Water Hall, was constructed in 1991 based on the design by architect Tadao Ando.

Despite being a temple, it has gained popularity among tourists for its unique design that incorporates concrete, with the main hall located underground.

On both sides of the stairs leading to the main hall, there are concrete ponds that create a beautiful landscape, especially when the lotus flowers bloom in summer. It has also been selected as the sixth temple on the "Awaji Hana Henro" pilgrimage route, which aims to create a park island filled with flowers and greenery in Awaji Island.

When you visit, you can enjoy the fusion of historical temples and contemporary art.

• Address: 1310 Ura, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 30 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Tourist Spots in Awaji Island for a Drive

Awaji Service Area

Awaji Service Area is a rest area located on the Awaji Island side of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, which connects Maiko Town in Kobe City and Iwaya in Awaji City. It can be accessed from both the upward and downward lanes and is commonly used as a rest stop for those crossing the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge.

The service area offers a spot called "Hashi no Mieru Oka" (Hill with a View of the Bridge), where you can overlook the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. It's a popular photo spot, especially on sunny days. There's also a cute character that appears as if it's lifting the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, so capturing a photo with it would be delightful.

In addition to the photo spot, the service area offers delicious Awaji gourmet food. One recommended dish is the "Awaji Onion Toripaitan Ramen." It features a whole Awaji onion inside the chicken-based ramen, creating a harmonious flavor combination of onion and chicken broth.

Inside the service area, there is also a souvenir corner where you can find local Awaji products. If you're considering purchasing Awaji souvenirs, be sure to stop by.

• Address: 3118-1 Iwaya, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 30 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Uzushio Roadside Station

Located near Naruto Cape and often referred to as the nearest roadside station to the "Naruto Whirlpools" is Uzushio Roadside Station. There are many recommended spots to visit when you come to this roadside station.

First, let's introduce the observation deck located at the back of the on-site shop. From here, you can get a close view of the massive Naruto Strait, which stretches approximately 1.6 kilometers with a maximum height of 144.3 meters. It's a breathtaking sight that will surely leave you amazed.

Next, we have the popular photo spot called "Ottama Chair," which is designed in the shape of an onion, representing one of Awaji Island's specialties. It's a three-seater chair, allowing you to take commemorative photos while sitting.

There is also a restaurant where you can try the "Awajishima Onion Beef Burger," which won first place in the National Local Burger Grand Prix. The menu here features carefully crafted dishes that have been continuously improved, making it an ideal lunch spot at the roadside station.

• Address: 947-22 Fukura Hei, Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 25 minutes by car from the center of Minamiawaji City

Craft Circus

Craft Circus is a trendy place that reopened in April 2022 after renovations. It has gained popularity as a place where you can enjoy the sunset and scenery of Awaji Island, which has been selected as one of "Japan's Top 100 Sunsets," utilizing the natural tourism resource. You can also enjoy dining and shopping here.

At the restaurant called "Awajishima Kaioshijo" inside the facility, you can savor fresh seafood such as sushi, seafood bowls, and grilled fish caught near Awaji Island.

At the second restaurant, "Awajishima Craft Kitchen," you can find unique menu items that can only be enjoyed here, such as craft burgers using Awaji beef and a giant 40-centimeter diameter pizza.

In the shopping area called "Awajishima Craft Marche," you can purchase fresh vegetables sourced from local farmers and indulge in 10 flavors of gelato made with Awaji Island honey.

• Address: 2-2 Nojima Hirabayashi, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 40 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Plenty of Local Delights! Iconic Gourmet Spots in Awaji Island

Awaji Gochisokan "Miketsu-kuni"

Located about a 15-minute drive from the Sumoto Interchange on the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway is Awaji Gochisokan "Miketsu-kuni." It is a facility created by renovating a red brick warehouse built during the Taisho era.

The interior is a two-story space with a high ceiling, creating a great sense of openness due to its warehouse origins. The nostalgic atmosphere that evokes a sense of history is also popular among visitors.

The first floor consists of a restaurant hall for individual customers, while the second floor offers seating for group customers, including tatami rooms, party rooms, and sunken kotatsu-style dining areas. The first-floor restaurant can accommodate up to 96 people, providing ample space to enjoy your meal.

When it comes to food, they operate with two dining sessions: lunch and dinner. You can indulge in specialties of Awaji Island, such as steak bowls using Awaji beef and bowls with fresh Awaji seafood like raw whitebait and saury.

For beverages, you can enjoy craft beer called "Awajibiru," made with Awaji-grown lemons, as well as local sake. If you're driving, the Awaji-produced cider called "I Love Ne" is also recommended.

• Address: 1-8 Shioya 1-chome, Sumoto City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 30 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Takosenbei no Sato

Hyogo Prefecture boasts the second-highest octopus catch in Japan. Utilizing this local specialty, Takosenbei no Sato in Awaji City produces delicious rice crackers.

The facility is divided into three areas, attracting many visitors not only for purchasing products but also as a tourist spot.

The "Factory Tour Corner" allows you to observe the production line, including the making of takosenbei and other products. The "Rest Area" features decorative indoor plants and offers complimentary coffee for visitors. The "Sales Corner" is where you can purchase the products, with a lineup of over 40 items available at all times. Most products have samples for tasting, allowing first-time visitors to confirm the taste before making a purchase. The staff is also available for consultation, so it's recommended to ask about their recommendations and popular items.

They also offer gift-ready products packaged in elegant boxes, making it a great place for residents of Awaji City and surrounding areas to purchase souvenirs, in addition to being a tourist destination.

• Address: 4155-1 Nakata, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 8 minutes by car from the center of Awaji City

Zekkei Restaurant "Uzu no Oka"

Situated in a location where you can overlook the scenic beauty of the Naruto Bridge, Uzu no Oka is a popular restaurant among tourists. They proudly serve delicious dishes using specialties from Awaji Island, and it has been featured in numerous guidebooks.

One of their popular dishes is "Uni Shabu," where you dip Awaji-produced sea urchin, Awaji beef, and seafood into a rich soup. The combination of the flavorful soup and Awaji's renowned ingredients creates an exquisite taste. After enjoying the shabu-shabu, it's recommended to add rice to the remaining soup and make a "zosui" (rice soup). The combination of the broth from the ingredients and the rich soup with sea urchin creates another fantastic dish.

As the hot pot dishes are served per person, even if you visit with family or friends, each person can have their desired dish. Additionally, you can savor other outstanding dishes made with Awaji's specialties, including whitebait bowls, saury bowls, and seafood hitsumabushi.

Please note that they are open for lunchtime only, so please be aware of their operating hours when visiting.

• Address: Uzu no Oka Memorial Museum, 936-3 Fukura Hei, Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Access: 20 minutes by car from the center of Minamiawaji City

Model Itineraries for Awaji Island Sightseeing

Day Trip Model Course for Awaji Island Sightseeing

Awaji Island is easily accessible from the mainland by car, taking about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a day trip.

Start by crossing the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, a 3,911-meter-long bridge connecting the mainland and Awaji Island. Crossing by car is common, but one of the highlights of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is that you can actually walk on it. The Maiko Marine Promenade is a pedestrian walkway that offers a panoramic view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, standing approximately 47 meters above sea level, 150 meters from the land, with a total length of about 317 meters. It allows you to enjoy the wild waves and stunning scenery of the Akashi Kaikyo up close.

After crossing the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, you will finally arrive on the main island of Awaji. The first destination is "Nijigen no Mori," a place where both adults and children can have fun. This facility offers a unique experience that combines the real world with the virtual world, allowing you to feel like the protagonist of popular anime such as NARUTO and Dragon Quest. The attractions offered change annually, so I recommend checking the official website for the latest information. Additionally, the permanent "Crayon Shin-chan Adventure Park" features activities such as zip-lining and a giant athletic course, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors while staying active.

To conclude your Awaji Island sightseeing, indulge in the island's exquisite local cuisine! About a 40-minute drive from Nijigen no Mori, in the central area of Awaji City, Awaji Gochisokan "Miketsu-kuni" is recommended. This restaurant is housed in a renovated red brick building and offers a spacious and open atmosphere. You can enjoy dishes such as Awaji beef steak bowls and bowls with fresh Awaji seafood. With a wide variety of menu options available, each person can order their favorite dish, which is one of the reasons for its popularity. The facility also includes a section where local products are sold, allowing you to conveniently choose Awaji Island souvenirs.

1 Night 2 Days Model Course for Awaji Island Sightseeing

If you have one night and two days, after having dinner, head to your accommodation. Awaji Island has several areas with natural hot springs, each forming a hot spring town. For your first night, head to "Yumesenkei Bessou Amahara," one of the hot springs in Sumoto, Awaji Island. It is about a 5-minute drive from Awaji Gochisokan "Miketsu-kuni". This ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) offers only 18 rooms, providing a high-class experience. Each room comes with an open-air bath, allowing you to soak in the hot springs while enjoying the view of Osaka Bay. The facilities and services, such as private lounges and Thai traditional massages, offer a unique and enjoyable experience. Make the most of your stay until the last minute of check-out time.

On the next day, depart from the ryokan around noon. It takes about 20 minutes by car to reach Awaji Island Livestock Farm, where you can enjoy activities such as milking cows and making butter surrounded by nature. These activities take place indoors, so they are also recommended as a rainy day attraction.

After enjoying the farm, head to "Michi no Eki Uzushio," located at the southern end of Awaji Island. It takes about 30 minutes by car from the livestock farm. This place is known as the road station closest to the Naruto whirlpools in Japan, offering a breathtaking view of the whirlpools and the Great Naruto Bridge on clear days. Don't forget to visit the "Onion Chair," a photo spot designed in the shape of an onion.

2 Nights 3 Days Model Course for Awaji Island Sightseeing

For a 2-night 3-day trip, it is recommended to stay in the northern area of Awaji Island, which is easily accessible for returning to the mainland. Stay at "Grand Nikko Awaji," located within the national park of Akashi Kaikyo, about an hour's drive from Michi no Eki Uzushio. The hotel offers rooms with a view of the sea, allowing you to experience a resort-like atmosphere.

On the last day, spend the entire day at the national park of Akashi Kaikyo where the hotel is located. The park is surrounded by flowers and greenery, making it a perfect location for walks and picnics. The observatory provides a stunning view of the greenery in the park and the blue waters of Osaka Bay.

After enjoying a stroll in the park, indulge in a leisurely barbecue at the hotel. At the fan dining restaurant "Coccollare," you can savor dishes such as Awaji beef and locally caught seafood on the terrace seats. The convenience of being able to enjoy a BBQ without bringing anything is a delight for travelers.

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