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Top Attractions and Activities
#1 Awaji Hanasajiki
Awaji Hanasajiki is a beautiful flower garden located in the hills in the northern part of Awaji Island, with a plateau stretching from 298m to 235m above sea level. Flowers bloom from season to season, and visitors can enjoy scenery befitting of Awaji Island, also known as "Flower Island." Of special note is the magnificent 360-degree panoramic view from the wooden observation deck. This panoramic view of the expanse from the sea to the plateau attracts visitors.
#2 Awaji Island National Akashi Kaikyo Park
Awaji Island National Akashi Kaikyo Park is a recommended tourist spot for family trips. There is a garden area with beautiful flowers blooming throughout the four seasons, making it visually pleasing. In particular, the playground area called "Yumekko Land" is equipped with more than 150 types of playground equipment, which is sure to be a big hit with children. In addition, the "Kodomo no Mori" (Children's Forest) has a large piece of universally designed playground equipment. Another feature of the park is a spacious lawn area that dogs can enjoy together. The park is also equipped with barbecue sites (reservations required), so families can enjoy outdoor cooking together on sunny days. Awaji Island National Akashi Kaikyo Park" is recommended as a place where parents, children, and their dogs can play all day long.
#3 Awaji Service Area
Awaji Service Area is located on "Hashi no Mieru Oka" where you can enjoy beautiful views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. There are two lines, one going up and one going down, and you can come and go as you please, allowing you to enjoy the multifaceted scenery and facilities. In particular, the Giant Ferris Wheel, located on the downhill line, is not to be missed. A 15-minute walk in the air provides a spectacular view of the Ohashi Bridge. This Ferris wheel is especially recommended for couples and families. Both the up and down lines also offer a wide variety of food and souvenirs made from Awaji Island specialties. Visitors can enjoy delicious food and shopping while experiencing the charm of the local area.
#4 Nijigen no Mori (Awaji Island Park, Hyogo Prefecture)
Hyogo Prefectural Awaji Island Park has four special zones on its vast 134.8-hectare grounds. There is the "Interaction Zone" for family fun, the "Forest Zone" where you can see the beautiful Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the "Grassland and Flower Zone" perfect for hiking, and the "Highway Oasis Zone" for dining and shopping. Nijigen-no-mori, located within this park, is a unique Japanese anime park where visitors can experience the world of anime and manga through all five senses. A variety of attractions utilizing the latest technology can be enjoyed day and night. Surrounded by nature, visitors are recommended to wear comfortable clothes.
#5 Awaji Yumebutai
Awaji Yumebutai is a multipurpose resort designed by architect Tadao Ando. Of special note is the "Hyakudanen," 100 flowerbeds arranged in a stair-like pattern. There is also an "outdoor theater" overlooking Osaka Bay and a greenhouse. The resort is also equipped with dining and lodging facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy both day-trips and overnight stays. A wide variety of flowers can be viewed at the adjacent "Awaji Island National Akashi Kaikyo Park," and the "Space Cherry Blossoms" in particular are not to be missed. These cherry blossoms were created by astronaut Koichi Wakata, who traveled in space together with the astronaut. Awaji Yumebutai is a beautiful place that combines nature, architecture, and flowers, and is a facility that many people can enjoy.
#6 Izanagi Shrine
Izanagi Shrine is the oldest shrine in Japan and enshrines Izanagi and Izanami, the gods of nation-birth mentioned in "Kojiki" and "Nihonshoki". It is the only shrine in Hyogo Prefecture to have a "Shinkan" (Shinto priesthood), and is historically revered as the first shrine in Awaji Province. According to a myth, Izanagi spent the rest of his life on Awaji Island, which is the origin of the shrine. Locally, the shrine is also called "Ikkusan" and is worshipped from many angles. Traditional festivals are held throughout the year in addition to the "Yō no Michi Shirube" and the "Married Couple Camphor Tree" within the shrine.
#7 Awaji Puppet Theater
The Awaji Puppet Theater was founded by volunteers to preserve and pass on the traditional "Awaji Ningyo Joruri" of Awaji Island. The group began its activities after World War II, when this culture was in danger of disappearing, and took over the tools and techniques of the prestigious "Denjiro Yoshida Theater. The group has performed both in Japan and abroad and has received much acclaim, and is now designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of Japan. This culture backed by history and tradition continues to deeply impress audiences.
#8 Uzushio Cruise
The "Uzushio Cruise" departs from Fukura Port on Awaji Island and takes about one hour to experience the spectacular Naruto Straits. The cruise is a must-see tourist attraction because of its beautiful blue sky, historic islets, and above all, the marvelous whirlpools unique to the Naruto Straits. Especially in spring and fall, there is a chance to observe the giant whirlpools, which can reach a diameter of about 30 meters. However, the Uzushio cannot always be seen, so we recommend that you check the timetable before departure and visit during the time when the Uzushio is most likely to appear.
#9 Sumoto Castle Ruins, Mt.Mikuma
The "Mt. Mikumayama Sumoto Castle Ruins" is the historical center of the Awaji Province and has been designated as a national historic site. Located on the 133-meter-high Mt. Mikumayama, the castle tower commands a panoramic view of the Kitan Straits and the urban areas of Osaka and Sakai. The stone walls are well-preserved, maintaining the style of the Warring States Period. If you make a reservation one week in advance, a volunteer guide will give you a detailed tour of the area. The Mikumayama Sumoto Castle Ruins is a beautiful sightseeing spot where history and nature coexist, and is recommended for those interested in history.
#10 Awaji Greenhouse
The Awaji Green House, which reopened in September 2021 at Awaji Yumebutai, is one of the largest greenhouses in Japan and was designed by the world-renowned architect Tadao Ando. With the renewal, Mr. Junichi Inada became the director of the pavilion, and a new symbol, the "Garden Castle," was introduced. The museum is divided into five themes, allowing visitors to enjoy the multifaceted appeal of plants. It is especially recommended for gardeners and flower lovers, who can also relax in the museum's café after a stroll. This greenhouse is a new tourist attraction that combines the beauty of plants and architecture.
#11 Uzu-no-oka Onaruto Bridge Memorial Hall
Uzu-no-oka Onaruto Bridge Memorial Hall is a popular complex that combines gourmet food and entertainment. At "Uzuno-Oka Restaurant with a spectacular view," you can enjoy delicious food unique to Awaji Island and a wonderful view. At "Awajishima Onion Kitchen," you can enjoy a limited-edition burger. In addition, the Uzushio Science Museum is a great place for children to learn about Uzushio while playing and experiencing it. This facility, where visitors can enjoy food, nature, and education all in one place, is a sightseeing spot that anyone can enjoy.
#12 Hello Kitty Smile
Hello Kitty Smile" is a Hello Kitty-themed tourist spot where visitors can enjoy a variety of Hello Kitty-themed activities and gastronomic delights. Otohime Ryugujo" is beautifully illuminated by projection mapping, and visitors can also enjoy sand painting and pottery painting events. Dining is especially popular during lunch time at the restaurant, which serves international hot pot and authentic Chinese dishes. In addition, there is a "restaurant greeting" where Hello Kitty comes to your seat to take a commemorative photo, making it an ideal sightseeing spot for girls and families traveling together.
#13 Hokudan Earthquake Memorial Park
Hokudan Earthquake Memorial Park is a facility that preserves and communicates the lessons of the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. Visitors can learn about the effects of the earthquake and subsequent recovery through exhibits and hands-on experience with "storytellers". Particular focus is placed on earthquake preparedness and the importance of community communication. This information is of great value to people living in earthquake-prone Japan. In addition, the park includes a restaurant and a product center offering Awaji Island specialties, allowing visitors to contemplate the lessons of the earthquake while enjoying local flavors.
#14 Keino Matsubara, Keino Matsubara Beach
Keinomatsubara and Keinomatsubara Beach is a sightseeing spot where visitors can experience both history and natural beauty. This scenic spot was written about by the ancient poet Kakinomoto Hitomaro in his Manyoshu (Anthology of Myriad Leaves), and is protected as part of Setonaikai National Park. The romantic atmosphere of the "Proposal Road" is popular among couples and families. Keinomatsubara Beach is also so popular that it has been selected as one of the "100 Best Pleasure Beaches," "100 Best Beaches in Japan," "88 Best Beaches in Japan," and "100 Best Sunsets in Japan.
#15 Onokoroshima Shrine
Onokoroshima Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Izanagi and Izanami from Japanese mythology and has existed on Awaji Island since ancient times. The shrine is known and loved by the local people for its magnificent vermilion-lacquered Otorii (Grand Gate), which stands 21.7 meters high. The shrine is widely worshipped as a god of marriage and safe delivery, and many people visit the shrine to pray for safe delivery, the first visit to the shrine to pray for the growth of their children, and Shichi-Go-San mairi (pilgrimages to the shrine for the seven-five-three-year period). For those who have wishes related to match-making and child-rearing, it is recommended to pick up an amulet at this shrine.
#16 Michinoeki Uzushio
Michi no Eki Uzushio is known as the closest tidal viewing spot in Japan to the Uzushio (*The Uzushio is not always visible, so check in advance when it can be seen). Visitors can also enjoy a seasonal lunch of Awaji Island at the Uzushio Restaurant. It serves locally caught fish and Awaji beef, making it a great place for gourmet sightseeing on Awaji Island. In particular, hamburgers using onions, a specialty of Awaji Island, are served at the Awajishima Onion Kitchen, and these hamburgers have received high praise at the National Burger Grand Prix. Please visit Michi no Eki Uzushio, where you can easily enjoy Uzushio and Awaji Island gourmet food.
#17 Parche Fragrance Pavilion, Fragrance Hot Spring
The "Parche Aroma Pavilion/ Aroma Hot Spring" is a collection of diverse facilities, including a greenhouse, accommodations, and a farm. Of particular note is the "Fragrance Pavilion," which offers a wide variety of aroma experiences. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of relaxation through a variety of activities, such as making original perfumes, extracting essential oils from herbs, making gel candles, soaps, and incense. At the "Fragrance Hot Spring," there is an open-air bath with a view overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, and the fragrance of seasonal herbs will soothe you. The Parche Aroma House/Kanori-no-Yu is a sightseeing spot where you can enjoy nature, health, and relaxation all in one place.
#18 Awaji World Park ONOKORO
Awaji World Park ONOKORO is a tourist attraction where visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions and events. The center of attention is "Miniature World," where famous architectural structures from around the world, such as the Arc de Triomphe in France and the Taj Mahal in India, are reproduced in miniature. At "Dinosaur World," visitors will be amazed by realistic dinosaur figures. There is also a handcraft workshop, making this a sightseeing spot that can be enjoyed by families and couples.
#19 Awaji Farm Park - England's Hill
Awaji Farm Park England's Hill is a family tourist spot where visitors can enjoy a full day of fun with a variety of activities. It was especially popular as a zoo where visitors can meet koalas, one of only seven zoos in Japan. Recently, visitors can appreciate seasonal flowers, make homemade ice cream and bread, experience harvesting vegetables, and enjoy active play such as go-carts and swan boats. There is also a restaurant where you can taste Awaji Island's specialties, and a private workshop offering freshly baked bread, sausages, and dairy products. Enjoyable by multiple generations, from children to adults, Awaji Farm Park England's Hill is a recommended sightseeing spot for family trips.
#20 Awajishima Farm
Awajishima Farm is blessed with a natural environment and offers a wide variety of ranch experiences that can be enjoyed by multiple generations, such as milking, making butter, milking and feeding milk to calves. Especially for meals, barbecue using locally produced high-quality Awaji beef is offered, and its delicious taste can be enjoyed in the midst of nature. Ideal for outdoor experiences with family and friends, Awaji Island Ranch is a sightseeing spot that will refresh both body and soul.
#21 Awaji Island Monkey Center
The Awaji Island Monkey Center is a sightseeing spot where more than 350 Japanese macaques, known as "Awaji macaques," live. The Awaji macaques are characterized by their friendliness compared to other Japanese macaques. They return to the mountains in the evening, so it is recommended to visit early in the day. The Awaji Monkey Center also studies the behavior and birth records of Awaji macaques, making it a valuable place for both animal lovers and researchers.
#22 Nu Shima
Nushima, where the legend of Onokoro Island lives on, is said to be the birthplace of the nation in Japanese mythology, and is the most likely of several possible sites on and off Awaji Island. Nushima is dotted with many shrines and temples, including Onokoro Shrine, Benzaiten Shrine, Jinguji Temple, and Nushima Hachiman Shrine, and the island is also the site of lively local festivals such as the Spring Festival, Hamo no Kuyo Festival, and Bon Odori. In addition, the island is a tourist destination where visitors can enjoy oddly shaped rock cruises around the island, swimming in the sea, and fresh seafood dishes. Why not visit this island rich in tradition?
#23 Dragon Quest 30th Anniversary Monument
Sumoto Shimin Hiroba" is a multi-purpose plaza that functions as both a tourist attraction and a place for citizens to relax. In particular, since the plaza is the birthplace of Yuji Horii, creator of the game "Dragon Quest," a monument has been set up in the plaza, making it a new sacred place for game fans. Nearby is the beautiful red-brick Sumoto City Library, which has been voted the third best library to visit in western Japan. In addition, a new complex, SBRICK, opened in the neighborhood in the spring of 2021. From sightseeing to daily relaxation, the area has become an attractive spot for many people.
#24 Akashi Kaikyo Bridge Cruise
The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge Cruise is a 75-minute cruising tour departing from Iwaya Port on Awaji Island. The on-board guide will carefully explain the highlights of the tour, making it enjoyable even for first-timers. Of particular note is the moment when the boat passes directly under the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. You can experience the thrill of the bridge and the ship approaching each other. The Akashi Kaikyo also has a lot of ship traffic, and you may encounter local fishing boats and large passenger ships. If you like boats, this cruise is especially recommended. The thrill, excitement, and encounter with diverse vessels are the charm of this cruise and well worth experiencing at least once.
#25 E Shima
Eshima is believed to be the site of the legendary "Onokoro Island," which is mentioned in Japanese creation mythology. The island was once connected to the mainland, but over the years, the wind and waves have given it its present isolated shape. At the top of the island stands a stone pagoda in honor of Shooomaru, who gave his life when Taira no Kiyomori built Owadamari. Although public access is prohibited for safety reasons, the island is designated as a scenic beauty spot by the city and is lit up at night, giving it a fantastic beauty. This mysterious island attracts many people as a tourist attraction on Awaji Island.
#26 Awaji Janohiru Outdoor Resort
Awaji Janohiru Outdoor Resort is a multifunctional leisure facility. It offers a wide variety of activities such as fishing, marine sports, dolphin encounters, horseback riding, barbecue, and camping. Marine sports such as big game fishing in the offshore fishing pond, sea kayaking, and SUP are especially popular. There are also dolphin and horse experiences that can be enjoyed by both young children and adults.
#27 Aqua Ignis Awaji Island
Aqua Ignis Awaji Island is a one-day spa resort that opened on Awaji Island in July 2022. Surrounded by beautiful sea and greenery, the theme of the resort is healing and gastronomy. It has a natural hot spring "Izanagi no Yu" and an infinity pool "Izanagi no Yu. It also offers restaurants by famous chefs, an esthetic salon, and rental bicycles. Accessible in a short time by car from Kobe, Osaka, and Tokushima, this new style resort is easy to visit before or after work as well as on holidays.
#28 Sumoto Retro KOMICHI
The "Sumoto Retro Komichi" near Sumoto Castle is a sightseeing spot with an atmosphere that evokes the remnants of the once bustling castle town. The car-free alley is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visitors can buy snacks at stores and spend time at leisure. Here you will see locals riding bicycles and elementary and junior high school students walking, and if you listen carefully, you may even hear the local people talking about their daily lives. Why not stop by this charming "ko-michi" in between trips?
#29 Biyu Shoho no Sato
Biyu Shohonosato" is a one-day hot spring resort located at the gateway to Awaji Island, where you can heal your body and soul. Here, visitors can enjoy a magnificent view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, fresh seafood and mountain products from Awaji Island, and natural radon hot springs to relieve fatigue. All three elements combine to provide visitors with an unforgettable experience.
#30 Ohama Beach, Ohama Beach
Ohama Beach and Ohama Beach, selected as one of the 100 best beaches in Japan, is a popular spot in Kansai with beautiful white sand and green pine trees. The beach stretches for 750 meters, and the water is shallow and clean. New beach houses have opened, and public showers, changing rooms, and coin lockers are available. Located in the Sumoto hot spring resort area, it is the perfect place to stay overnight and enjoy a full day of swimming. With Senbon pine trees, Mt. Mikumayama, and the ruins of Sumoto Castle in the background, the beautiful scenery is considered one of the "Eight Views of Sumoto.
Local Cuisine
#31 Awaji Gochisou Kan Miketsukuni
Awaji Gochisoukan Miketsukuni is a brick building renovated from a Taisho era factory, giving the restaurant a historical atmosphere. In the spacious 100-seat restaurant, you can enjoy seafood and Awaji beef from Awaji Island. In addition, the restaurant offers a wide variety of original products such as onion soup, onion dressing, and local pickles, which are very popular. The Awaji Gochisoukan Miketsukuni is recommended as a place where visitors can experience the charms of Awaji Island to the fullest, while experiencing the local flavors and history.
#32 CRAFT CIRCUS
CRAFT CIRCUS is a seaside complex located on the west coast of Awaji Island. It opened in 2016 and will be renovated in April 2022. The popular "Dog Terrace" allows visitors to enjoy meals with their dogs and is equipped with a dog run. In addition, there is a "Heart Drum Bridge" with a beautiful sunset, perfect for taking pictures. This facility offers a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and attracts many travelers.
#33 SEIKAIHA
SEIKAIHA is a theater and restaurant complex located on the west coast of Awaji Island. It consists of four restaurants: the Japanese-style "Ao-no-Sha," the Western-style "Umi-no-Sha," the store and bar "Kozake-no-Sha," and the theater "Nami-no-Tei. The concept is "En" and "Hibiki," allowing visitors to enjoy a meal while experiencing Japanese culture and art. The theater features shows based on Japanese traditions and mythology, while the restaurant uses fresh local ingredients. The facilities are luxurious and sophisticated, and the beautiful Harimanada sunset spreads out before you.
#34 Michinoeki Awaji
Michinoeki Awaji is a tourist attraction at the northern tip of Awaji Island, offering spectacular views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of gourmet foods, such as the locally popular Awaji Island fresh shirasu (fresh young sardines) rice bowl and Awaji beef burgers. Souvenirs include specialty onions and marine products, and the station has been ranked No. 1 in customer satisfaction among roadside stations nationwide. At the attached "Matsuho Anchorage Park," visitors can dine with beautiful scenery in the background and enjoy different scenery day and night.
#35 wa STEP AWAJISHIMA
waSTEP AWAJISHIMA, which reopened on Awaji Island on March 25, 2023, is a gourmet complex that evolved from an onion specialty store. The "wa" in the name means harmony, story, or circle, and provides a comfortable space for visitors. 5 stores operate under the theme of "a collection of good places and delicious foods of Awaji Island. Located in Oiso, Awaji City, along National Route 28 and close to the Awaji Interchange, it is an ideal stopover for tourists. It is attracting attention as a new Awaji Island landmark that both locals and tourists can enjoy.
#36 Hello Kitty Show Box
Hello Kitty Showbox is a theater restaurant where you can enjoy a Hello Kitty stage show and a vegan lunch. The pie soup made with Awaji onions is especially delicious and surprisingly meatless. Taking pictures with Hello Kitty during greeting time is a must-see for fans. The show can be enjoyed even during café hours, so you don't have to choose the time of your visit. In addition, limited-edition Sanrio products are available at the Dream SHOP. The show is very popular and advance reservations are recommended. This facility is a must-visit for Hello Kitty fans.
#37 Nojima Scuola
Nojima Scola is a tourist facility that was renovated from the closed Nojima Elementary School, and is a popular spot visited by more than 150,000 people a year. The facility is noted as a place where visitors can enjoy Awaji Island's nature, art, and gastronomy all in one place, and at "Cafe Scola" on the first floor, visitors can dine on the terrace with their pets. At Ristorante Scola on the second floor, visitors can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine using Awaji Island ingredients. This facility is used by many people as a multifunctional spot that promotes local culture and exchange.
#38 Happy Pancake Awajishima Resort
Happy Pancake Awaji Island Resort" is located on the cape of Ozaki, famous for its beautiful sunsets. Here, you can enjoy delicious sweets on the terrace, couples, or family seats while gazing out at the ocean. The resort is spread out with diverse facilities for taking pictures and videos, making it an ideal place especially for anniversaries and special occasions. At sunset, visitors can enjoy special moments at spots that take advantage of Awaji Island's natural beauty, such as the "Stairway of Happiness" and the "Ring of Happiness.
#39 Awaji Chef Garden
Awaji Chef Garden is a restaurant area on Awaji Island, known as a treasure trove of food. Here, visitors can enjoy the cuisine of each chef at outdoor terrace seats overlooking the coastlines of Osaka and Kobe. There are dozens of restaurants, offering a variety of genres from Japanese to Italian, Thai, Chinese, and Taiwanese cuisine. Each chef makes the most of Awaji Island ingredients, allowing you to fully enjoy the local flavors. Furthermore, this place is pet-friendly, so you can spend a wonderful time with your dog or cat. Why not experience diverse cuisine, beautiful scenery, and a fun time with your pet at Awaji Chef Garden?
#40 Awaji Highway Oasis
Awaji Highway Oasis is a sightseeing spot where you can enjoy everything from gourmet food to nature observation. It is especially recommended for families. Children can play freely in the plaza, and when they get tired of playing, they can enjoy local Awaji Island specialties at the restaurant. The spectacular view from the "Observation Plaza" is also wonderful, offering a panoramic view of Osaka Bay and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. In spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, visitors can enjoy a beautiful collaboration of the bridge and the cherry blossoms. There is also an opportunity to experience local culture at the event plaza. Please visit this place filled with a variety of attractions.
#41 Tako Senbei no Sato
Tako Senbei no Sato is a facility that sells 40 varieties of its own rice crackers and has a "sales corner," a "tasting corner," and a "rest corner. Free coffee and tea are served at the rest area decorated with ornamental plants, and the cracker manufacturing process can be observed through the window. Access is conveniently located 1 minute by car from the Tsuna Ichinomiya Interchange on the Kobe-Awaji Naruto Expressway. It is an ideal place for souvenirs and rest.
Awaji Island Nightlife
#42 Awajishima Blues
Welcome to the one and only stand-and-drink bar on Awaji Island. Here, music is a part of life. Inside, the deep love for music of the owner is evident, with a vast collection of Blues and Jazz records lined up. Each record plays a role in creating special moments for our visitors.
Our place is not just about enjoying food and drinks; it’s also about immersing yourself in the charm of music. With an atmosphere welcoming even solo visitors, we invite you to stop by when you're in Sumoto, Awaji Island. Come and experience a warm and memorable time with us.
#43 Bar Etoile
Located in the retro alley of Sumoto, this bar is set in a renovated traditional house, offering a serene and relaxing atmosphere. The owner, originating from Awaji Island, boasts 15 years of rich experience in Nishinomiya's Kurakuen area. He holds multiple qualifications including being a member of the Japan Bartenders Association, a Coffee Meister with the Specialty Coffee Association of Japan, and a Cigar Manager accredited by the Japan Cuba Cigar Education Association.
Situated just off the bustling streets of Sumoto, our bar welcomes a wide range of customers, from locals to tourists. We are fully equipped with private rooms, catering to both exclusive reservations and party bookings. Our bar is an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet escape with quality service.
#44 Sakaba New Light
Located just a stone's throw from the 'Garb Costa Orange Mae' bus stop, you'll find 'Sakaba New Light', a striking green building. It serves as a hub for local community interaction, where you can enjoy good drinks and have a great time. Here, karaoke is available for free and you can sing to your heart's content!
Additionally, we offer an attractive all-you-can-drink plan, perfect for lively gatherings with friends. For your convenience, free parking is available at Frog's Farm, ensuring a hassle-free visit.
Come and join us at 'Sakaba New Light' for an unforgettable experience filled with fun and community spirit!
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Non-touristy things to do in Awaji Island
Because many people have jobs and work hard, people usually gather mostly on weekends. Families take their cars to parks, beaches, community events, and restaurants, as the public commons is not convenient for daily use.
Couples without children spend their time in theme cafes or go shopping in Kobe or Osaka by car or highway bus. In the evenings, residents may enjoy sports or enjoy a drink at an izakaya (Japanese-style pub) or bar.
There are two types of local events that residents enjoy: those for residents and those for tourists. Festivals held at local shrines have been a major town-wide event for many years, and although the scale of these events is gradually decreasing as the population ages, they are still very much a part of the community.
Events for tourists include live music concerts, outdoor movie festivals, and fireworks displays, and information is disseminated through social networking services.
In recent years, theme cafes have become popular on Awaji Island, with a variety of elaborate cafes scattered throughout the island. These cafes have become places of relaxation where tourists, young residents, and groups of mothers with children spend time talking and relaxing.
Travel Tips
- Proximity to Major Cities: Awaji Island is quite close to Kobe and Osaka. You can easily stay in these cities and take day trips to explore Awaji Island.
- Transportation:Unlike larger cities, public transportation on Awaji Island is not very frequent. Renting a car or taking a cab is the best way to explore the island, but buses are available to major tourist destinations.
- Shopping Areas:For shopping, visit service areas and produce markets. You can purchase Awaji Island's famous onions, local crafts, souvenirs, and more.
- Cash is King:Many local stores and markets on Awaji Island prefer cash transactions, so it is a good idea to have enough cash on hand. Recently, more and more stores are accepting credit cards, but about half of them are cash only.
- Public Restrooms and Trash Bins: Public restrooms and trash bins can be scarce. The best places to find them are at tourist sites, large shopping areas, and service areas on the expressways.
- Weather Preparedness: The weather can be unpredictable. Carry an umbrella or a hat, as the island's open terrain offers little shade or shelter.
- Exploring Nature: The island is less crowded than mainland cities, offering peaceful exploration of natural sites like the Awaji Hanasajiki (flower park) and the Naruto Whirlpools.
- Local Etiquette:When asking for directions or help, use Google Translate or similar tools. For complaints or more important inquiries, it is more effective to speak to older people, based on respect for age and class in Japan.
- Luggage Storage: If you’re traveling with heavy bags, utilize the coin lockers available at larger bus stations or tourist spots.
- Nearby Cities:Take advantage of the island's location and visit nearby cities. Kobe is only a bridge away, and Osaka is about 1.5 hours away by car.
- Local Cuisine: Don't miss trying the local seafood, especially Awaji beef and sea bream. The island also boasts excellent onion-based dishes due to its reputation for high-quality onion production.
- Cultural Experiences: Awaji Island is rich in cultural heritage. Plan a visit to the Awaji Puppet Theatre for a unique experience, or explore the many shrines and temples that dot the landscape.
- Outdoor Activities: For outdoor enthusiasts, there are beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and cycling routes. The island's relatively flat terrain makes it ideal for leisurely bike rides.
- Accommodation Tips: While there are hotels and guesthouses on the island, consider staying in a traditional ryokan for a more authentic Japanese experience.
- Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken on Awaji Island. Having a translation app or a phrasebook can be very helpful.
- Seasonal Considerations: If you're visiting during summer, be prepared for hot and humid weather. Conversely, winters are mild but can be chilly, especially near the coast.
By keeping these travel tips in mind, you can have a delightful and smooth experience exploring the unique and serene landscapes of Awaji Island.