You’ll never run out of things to do in Awaji Island, also known as Awaji Shima! Explore lush nature and scenic spots, experience the local culture and history, enjoy delicious food, shop for unique souvenirs, and take a bath in hot springs.
Awaji Island, the birthplace of Japan, has a mythical history. With a long history of providing ingredients to the emperor’s palace, it has been known as the land of food since ancient times. It also blessed by nature, with easy access to the sea and mountains, and gorgeous flowers fields. Furthermore, traditional industries like roof tile and incense production continue to thrive, making a trip to the island a must for Japanese traditional craft lovers. Want to learn more? Read on to find out about Awaji Island’s unique highlights!
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Explore Awaji Island’s History, Culture, and Landscapes
One of the Oldest in Japan: Izanagi Jingu Shrine
This ancient shrine embodies the great deities, Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, who are said to have created Japan. A visit to Izanagi Shrine is a must when you arrive on Awaji Island. The establishment of Izanagi Shrine is recorded in the oldest Japanese texts, Kojiki and Nihon Shoki.
According to mythology, the shrine is the remains of the residence of the god Izanagi, who built the shrine to live out the rest of his days in, after entrusting his powers to his daughter Amaterasu Ōmikami. Facing his eventual demise, Izanagi constructed a tomb at his Taga residence on Awaji Island. Izanagi Shrine was built around the relics of this tomb and is one of the very oldest shrines in Japan.
The First Island of Japan: Eshima Island
Eshima Island is a tiny sandstone island right next to the port of Iwaya in the northern part of Awaji Island. its location makes it a great place to start off your Awaji Shima itinerary.
The small island is believed to be one of multiple locations identified as “Onokorojima” (the first island of Japan), a legendary island appearing in the ancient chronicles, Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. Though it was originally connected to the larger Awaji Island, the island’s connection was eroded away by the sea, resulting in its current shape.
Nature and Architecture Coexist at Awaji Yumebutai
This impressive complex was designed by Tadao Ando, a famous architect who has won the Pritzker Prize, which is said to be the Nobel Prize of architecture. Home to a conference hall, restaurants, a greenhouse, many other facilities, Awaji Yumebutai has long been a popular sightseeing spot on Awaji Island due to its characteristic concrete architecture and construction that incorporates nature. Explore the thought-provoking architecture in this space, designed to be “where plants and humans can coexist.”
A Monument to Disaster: Hokudan Earthquake Memorial Park
This valuable memorial park preserves the fault that emerged during the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake (also known as the 1995 Kobe earthquake). It is a worthwhile place to visit not only for geography buffs, but also for those who are simply keen on seeing what kind of destruction an earthquake can cause and how we can be better prepared.
The museum’s entrance fee is ¥730 for adults, ¥310 for junior high school and high school students, and ¥260 for elementary school students. It is open from 9.00 am. – 5.00 pm. (All the information in the museum is in Japanese.)
The Second Longest Suspension Bridge in the World: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is a symbol of Awaji Island. In the daytime, the magnificent white suspension bridge, set against the beautifully blue sea and sky, paints an incredible picture. At night, the bridge is illuminated and shines in various colors. A popular scenic spot, especially for the night view, it is also known as the gateway to Awaji Island.
Bask in Awaji Island’s Rich Nature
Awaji Hanasajiki Park
A nature fan looking for more things to do? Awaji Hanasajiki Park is renowned for its spectacular display of seasonal flowers, making it a must-visit spot on Awaji Island throughout the year. In spring, the park bursts into color with fields of poppies and rapeseed blossoms. Summer brings over 200,000 vibrant sunflowers and delicate blue salvia, while autumn transforms the hillsides with sweeping carpets of cosmos. Even in winter, visitors can enjoy the beauty of stock flowers and other hardy blooms. With its ever-changing landscape and panoramic views of the sea and sky, Awaji Hanasajiki Park offers a stunning floral experience in every season.
Admission to the park is free, and convenient public bus stops and parking lots are available, ensuring accessibility for all. Leave the stress of the city behind and take a deep breath of fresh air at the flower fields.
Awaji Island Beaches: Escape the Crowds
Keino Matsubara Beach is one of Awaji Island’s most iconic seaside destinations, celebrated for its long stretch of soft white sand lined with picturesque pine trees and its breathtaking sunsets over the Seto Inland Sea. The beach offers excellent swimming, beautiful views, and convenient facilities, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
For those seeking a quieter escape, Taganohama Beach is a hidden gem just a short distance away. This tranquil beach features a blend of grassy and sandy shoreline, gentle waves, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for swimming, picnicking, or simply unwinding by the sea. Both Keino Matsubara and Taganohama beaches showcase the natural beauty of Awaji Island and are ideal spots to enjoy the island’s coastal charm.
Taste Awaji Island’s Gourmet Delights
Recharge and refuel at one of Awaji Island’s restaurants serving up carefully curated menus with local ingredients. Enjoy the local seafood, Awaji beef, seasonal vegetables, and other delicacies that the island’s nature provides.
CRAFT CIRCUS: CRAFT KITCHEN
CRAFT KITCHEN at CRAFT CIRCUS features a creative menu that celebrates the best of Awaji Island’s local produce. Enjoy a variety of generously sized pizzas topped with signature ingredients such as sweet Awaji onions, tender Awaji beef, fresh local octopus, and flavorful whitebait (shirasu). The menu also features seafood pasta, seasonal salads, and other dishes that highlight the island’s abundant seafood and vegetables. Whether you’re sharing pizza with friends or sampling regional specialties, CRAFT KITCHEN offers a delicious taste of Awaji Island’s culinary heritage in a lively, seaside setting.
| Location | CRAFT CIRCUS |
|---|---|
| Address | 2-2 Nojima-Hirabayashi, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1724 |
| Access | 15 minutes by car from Awaji IC on Awaji-Kobe-Naruto Expressway. 10 minutes by car from Iwaya Port (Jenova Line Ferry). |
| Parking | 80 spaces |
| Business Hours | Weekdays: 10:30-20:30 (last order 19:30) Weekends/Holidays: 9:30-20:30 (last order 19:30) |
| Closed | Thursdays (excluding national holidays) |
| Tel | 0799-82-1855 |
| Website | https://awajicraftcircus.com/ |
| Reservations | https://www.tablecheck.com/en/shops/craftcircus/reserve |
Click here for details of CRAFT CIRCUS
Awaji Chef’s Garden by PASONA
Awaji Chef’s Garden by PASONA is a food court area featuring a variety of dishes and cuisines. This waterfront facility offers breathtaking views of the sea and sunset, selected as one of Japan’s “Top 100 Sunsets.” With approximately 14 stalls to choose from, you can enjoy a selection of meals based on your preferences while taking in the sea views.
| Name | Awai Chef's Garden by PASONA |
|---|---|
| Address | 57-3, Nojima Okawa, Awaji Shi, Hyogo Ken, 656-1723 |
| Parking | Approx. 140 units (Chef Garden Parking Space & SEIKAIHA Parking Space) 500 yen/day |
| Phone Number | 080-8177-4501 |
| Website | https://www.awaji-chefgarden.com/ |
| Business Hours | 11:00～21:00 (last order 20:00) *Subject to change depending on the season and weather. |
Click here for details of Awaji Chef's Garden
Farmer’s Restaurant Haru San San and Farming Resort San San Villa
Designed by world-renowned architect Shigeru Ban, another winner of the Pritzker Prize, Farmer’s Restaurant Haru San San is an ode to sustainability with a thatched roof supported by pillars made of paper tubes. It is an eco-friendly restaurant in the middle of a nature resort and farm which places the spotlight on local produce, and the ingredients used are also grown sustainably.
| Name | Farmer’s Restaurant – Haru San San |
|---|---|
| Address | 1510-4 Nojima-tokiwa Aza Genpachi, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1726 |
| Tel | 0799-70-9082 |
| Operation Hours | 11:00-18:00（L.O.17:00） |
| Closed | Wednesdays |
| Website | https://www.awaji-nlr.com/harusansan |
| Reservations | https://www.tablecheck.com/en/shops/noukarestaurant-haru-sansan/reserve |
Click here for details of Haru San San
San San Villa offers a one-of-a-kind overnight stay on Awaji Island, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the theme of “living with agriculture.” Surrounded by vibrant fields and lush greenery, each villa is thoughtfully designed to blend comfort with the rhythms of rural life. Guests can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside while participating in hands-on farming activities, harvesting fresh vegetables, or simply relaxing in a setting that celebrates the beauty and bounty of the land. San San Villa provides an unforgettable opportunity to reconnect with nature, savor farm-to-table cuisine, and experience the authentic charm of Awaji’s agricultural heritage.
| Address | 1510-3 Genpachi, Nojima-Tokiwa, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1726 A free shuttle busis available. |
|---|---|
| Parking | Available (Free) |
| Reception | Check-in 3:00 p.m. ～ 5:00 p.m.／check-out 10：00 a.m. |
| Guest Rooms | 10 villas in total, each villa for private bookings |
| Tel. No. | 0799-70-9083 |
| Official HP | https://en.awajinaturelabresort.com/ |
| Official Reservation Site | https://go-awajinaturelabresort.reservation.jp/en |
miele
At miele, which means “honey” in Italian, feast on sweets, pizzas, and pastas made with fresh ingredients and honey produced on Awaji Island and throughout the world. This casual spot is perfect for lunch, dessert or tea time!
| Name | miele |
|---|---|
| Adress | 785-9 Nojimahikinoura, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1721 |
| Tel | 0799-80-2600 |
| Operation Hours | Weekdays 10:30 a.m.~7:00 p.m. (L.O.6:30 p.m.) Sat., Sun, & Public Holidays 10:00 a.m.~7:00 p.m. (L.O.6:30 p.m.) Closed: Thursdays |
| Website | https://www.miele-da-scuola.com/ |
Click here for details of miele
Staying Overnight on Awaji Island? Try these Unique Accommodations
Private Lodges at GRAND CHARIOT Hokutoshichisei 135°
For travelers searching for a memorable place to stay on Awaji Island (Awaji Shima), GRAND CHARIOT Hokutoshichisei 135° stands out with its collection of private wooden lodges. Each lodge, crafted from natural wood, offering a cozy and tranquil retreat surrounded by the island’s beautiful scenery. Conveniently located next to Nijigen no Mori theme park, this accommodation is perfect for visitors who want to explore one of Awaji Island’s top attractions and enjoy a peaceful, luxurious stay.
Another of GRAND CHARIOT’s highlights is its exceptional dining experience. Guests can enjoy meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients from Awaji Island, including regional seafood and premium Awaji beef. With its blend of comfort, prime location, and outstanding cuisine, GRAND CHARIOT is an excellent choice for anyone looking for unique accommodation options on Awaji Shima.
| Name | GRAND CHARIOT |
|---|---|
| Adress | 2425-2 Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-2301 Located at Nijigen no Mori in Hyogo Prefecture Awajishima Park |
| Tel | 0799-64-7090 |
| Website | https://awaji-grandchariot.com/ |
| Reservations | https://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/guransiyariobei-dou-qi-xing-135deg.ja.html |
Click here for details of GRAND CHARIOT
Relax in the Hot Springs at Senshin Waho: a Traditional Ryokan Inn and Onsen Retreat
If you’re searching for an authentic onsen or ryokan experience near Osaka or Kobe, Senshin Waho is a standout choice on Awaji Island. Recently renovated and reopened this summer, Senshin Waho blends traditional Japanese hospitality and aesthetics with a fresh, modern design. The inn’s serene Japanese-modern atmosphere is perfect for relaxation, offering guests a peaceful overnight escape just a short trip from the city.
Senshin Waho boasts natural hot spring baths with stunning sea views, allowing you to unwind while gazing out over the sparkling waters. Beach access is just steps away, making it easy to enjoy the coastline during your stay. The ryokan’s cuisine is another highlight—guests can savor beautifully prepared seasonal dishes featuring local seafood and premium ingredients from Awaji Island. For those seeking an onsen or ryokan near Osaka or Kobe, Senshin Waho delivers a perfect blend of comfort, tradition, and scenic beauty.
| Address | 150 Hikinoura Nojima Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1721 A free shuttle bus available. |
|---|---|
| Parking | Available (Free) |
| Reception | Check-in 3:00 p.m.～／check-out 11:00 a.m. |
| Guest Rooms | 20 rooms in total (8 standard Japanese-style rooms, 6 Western-style rooms, 3 special guest rooms with a bath with a view, 3 independent rooms with an open-air hot spring bath) |
| Tel. No. | 0799-64-9800 |
| Official HP | https://senshinwaho.com/ |
| Official Reservation Site | https://go-senshinwaho.reservation.jp/ja/searchInput |
Traveling to Awaji Island: Access
Getting to Awaji Island from Kobe or Osaka is simple and convenient. The most popular way is by highway bus, which takes you across the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge directly onto the island. For added convenience, a free shuttle bus is available from key locations, such as Awaji Interchange, making it even easier to reach major attractions and resorts on Awaji Island. For detailed directions and the latest transport information, visit our Awaji Island access page.
Closing
Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway, a culinary adventure, or a deep dive into Japanese culture, Awaji Island offers something for every traveler. From stunning flower fields and beautiful beaches to unique local cuisine and unforgettable accommodations, your visit to Awaji is sure to be memorable. Start planning your Awaji Island journey today and discover the many charms that await just a short trip from Osaka or Kobe.
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