The Italian fair is a festive occasion that unfolds the diverse cultural heritage of Italy, featuring a tapestry of activities such as authentic cuisine, lively entertainment, and traditional artistry. The highly acclaimed Awaji Island Italian Fair, returns for its second consecutive year from February 23 to March 3, spanning 10 days across the west coast of Awaji.
Synchronized with the famed Venice Carnival, one of the world’s top three carnivals, this event promises a unique and authentic Italian experience. Building on the previous year’s success, attendees can anticipate a delightful blend of authentic costumes, masks, and many events featuring special guests, enhancing the celebration of Italy’s rich food and culture.
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General Overview of the Italian Fair on Awaji Island
For this edition, the event will span various venues across Awaji Island, forging collaborations with diverse restaurants and performers. You can try the specially curated lunch and dinner sets, accompanied by captivating shows at Nojima Scuola (Ristorante Scuola), Auberge French Forest (Grand Baobab), and SEIKAIHA (Uminoya).
Additionally, visit the SEIKAIHA gallery (Koshunoya), see a fashion show at Naminoritei, be captivated by ballet performances, explore the Italian Market at Naminoritei, and expand your knowledge with a wine seminar hosted at various facilities. Conveniently situated near to each other, attendees can seamlessly explore these locations without any concerns.
Italian Fair One Day Pass with Special Lunch & Dinner + Show for 15,000 yen
To ensure you experience an entire day immersed in the ambiance of Italy, this year, we’re introducing a one-day pass ticket that covers both lunch and dinner. Choose from two enticing plans, each featuring a show and live music performances by professional musicians, creating a truly authentic Italian atmosphere.
Plan A: Buffet Lunch at Ristorante Scuola and Luxurious Dinner at Auberge with Opera & Canzone
Enjoy the special buffet lunch at Ristorante Scuola, renowned for its authentic and delectable Italian cuisine. As night falls, relish a French gourmet experience at Grand Baobab within Auberge “French Forest”, where the chef skillfully blends the flavors of Italian and French influences. Conclude the evening with a mesmerizing opera and canzone concert, featuring a professional opera singer, amidst the enchanting fairy tale ambiance of Grand Baobab.
Plan B: Buffet Lunch and Dinner Show at SEIKAIHA Uminoya
SEIKAIHA Uminoya is a luxurious Western-style restaurant adorned with exquisite Venetian glass chandeliers and luxurious furnishings. Opt for Plan B to have both lunch and dinner at this venue. There is an Italian buffet for lunch, while a full-course dinner treats you to a captivating masquerade show and a condensed version of the Cinderella musical. The masquerade show features authentic performances with dancers and singers adorned in glamorous Venetian carnival-like costumes. The package encompasses lunch and dinner, accompanied by unlimited Italian wine and other soft drinks.
Enjoy the Italian Fair to the Fullest
Throughout the event period, each facility along the west coast of Awaji Island will present a wide variety of Italian-themed programs. Experience authentic ballet and piano concerts featuring world-class performers, enjoy screenings of Italy-related movies, participate in Italian wine seminars, and explore pop-up stores offering Venetian glass, cheese, and more. Conveniently, free shuttle buses will be provided for seamless transportation between facilities, making it easy for those who don’t drive and those enjoying alcoholic beverages.
Both meal plans feature unlimited servings of specially curated Italian wine exclusively prepared for this event, all at a very reasonable price. Try the satisfying combination of delectable meals and show tickets.
Exciting Latest Event Updates for the Italian Fair
Talk Show by the Famous Italian Celebrity Girolamo Panzetta
Girolamo Panzetta, born on September 6, 1962, in Villanova del Battista, Italy, is an Italian celebrity currently residing and working in Japan. He has appeared in various Japanese television shows, spanning dramas and cooking programs, and has been featured in fashion magazines. Additionally, Panzetta is an accomplished author with several published books and essays. Notably, he holds the distinction of gracing the front covers of the Japanese men’s fashion magazine LEON on more than 170 occasions since its inception in September 2001.
The talk show, titled “Italian Fantastica”, featuring Girolamo Panzetta and the renowned opera singer Yasuko Fujii, will explore Italian culture, including fashion and gourmet aspects.
Date: February 23, 2024 (Friday, Public Holiday)
Time: Doors open at 1:00 PM, Show starts at 1:30 PM, Ends at 2:30 PM
Venue: SEIKAIHA Naminoritei
Italian-themed Ballet Concert During the Italian Fair Period
Awaji Island, renowned for hosting numerous ballet concerts all year round, is once again embracing the artistry of ballet with an Italy-themed performance. Experience the grace and beauty of professional ballet dancers as they showcase an elegant and captivating dance performance.
Date: February 23rd (Friday, Public Holiday) to March 3rd (Sunday)
Time: Doors open at 2:45 PM, Show starts at 3:15 PM, Ends at 4:15 PM
Venue: Awaji Shiritsu Asonbure Hall (Shuttle service available)
Miss Japan Association × Beauty JAPON Fashion Show at the Italian Fair
The collaborative fashion event between the Miss Japan Association and Beauty JAPON. Attendees can expect a presentation featuring elegant clothing, highlighting the latest fashion trends, innovative designs, and showcasing curated collections related to the theme of the Italian Fair.
Date: February 24, 2024 (Saturday)
Time: Doors open at 1:00 PM, Show starts at 1:30 PM, Ends at 2:30 PM
Venue: SEIKAIHA Naminoritei
Italian Mask Contest
Date: February 25, 2024 (Sunday)
Time: Doors open at 1:00 PM, Show starts at 1:30 PM, Ends at 2:30 PM
Venue: SEIKAIHA Naminoritei
Talk Show by Harumi Fujimoto & Yasuko Fujii at the Italian Fair
The dialogue between renowned designer Harumi Fujimoto and popular opera singer Yasuko Fujii will explore various aspects. The talk show is set to touch upon reflections on fashion, contemporary design sensibilities, and the influence of Italian learning on the inheritance of Japanese culture through fashion.
Transportation to Awaji Island
Awaji Island is much more conveniently located than most people think. It is an approximately 30-minute drive from Kobe. For those who prefer not to drive or wish to indulge in alcoholic beverages, convenient express buses from Kobe Sannomiya and Maiko Stations to the venue are readily available. To enhance accessibility, free shuttle buses operate between facilities, providing a seamless experience for attendees without the need for a car.
Shinki Bus Kobe Sannomiya Bus Terminal
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Highway Maiko (via Akashi Kaikyo Bridge)
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Nojima Okawa (SEIKAIHA mae)
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Nojima-Oishi (Miele mae)
