Hello Kitty, the adorable fictional girl created by Sanrio, has become a global icon cherished by people of all ages. And guess what? There’s a Hello Kitty-themed destination right here on Awaji Island where you can enter the realm of Hello Kitty! It’s a dream come true for fans of this beloved character, offering a unique and unforgettable experience that will enchant visitors of all ages.
In this article, we will explore more about HELLO KITTY SMILE, a captivating theme park where you can meet with Hello Kitty herself, savor delicious Hello Kitty-themed dishes, and enjoy the various Hello Kitty attractions.
We’ll also provide a detailed day trip itinerary so you can experience all these charming destinations firsthand!
Table of Contents
- HELLO KITTY SMILE: Charming, Fun, and Adorable!
- Memorable Day Trip for Hello Kitty Fans on Awaji Island
- 9:45 AM: Start your Journey from Sannomiya (Kobe)
- 11:00 AM: Otohime Ryugu Castle & Meet Hello Kitty
- 12:00 PM: Lunchtime at Tamatebako
- 1:00 PM: Shopping Time! Purchase Hello Kitty Goods Only Available on Awaji Island!
- 2:00 PM: Enjoy other Hello Kitty Attractions on Awaji Island!
- 3:00 PM: HELLO KITTY APPLE HOUSE
- 3:30 PM: HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX
- 5:15 PM: Unforgettable Dinner Overlooking the Beautiful Ocean
- 6:26 PM: Going Back to Sannomiya (Kobe)
- Closing
HELLO KITTY SMILE: Charming, Fun, and Adorable!
HELLO KITTY SMILE, a charming Hello Kitty-themed facility on Awaji Island, offers a very unique experience with the multi-media exhibition areas and omni-direction theater, the only Hello Kitty gallery in Japan. With its blend of media art and delicious cuisine, HELLO KITTY SMILE is highly recommended for visitors of all ages.
One of the highlights is undoubtedly the captivating projection-mapping area, “Palace of the Dragon Princess”, where you can go on a mesmerizing adventure guided by Hello Kitty herself (not in person) through the Japanese fairy tale. As you explore each zone, be sure to capture some memorable selfies amidst the magical ambiance of the area!
Another highlight is a surprise appearance of Hello Kitty in person for a meet & greet at one of the zones, a perfect photo opportunity for you! For a meet & greet schedule, please click here.
Don’t forget to try some of the culinary delights at the restaurants within HELLO KITTY SMILE, where you’ll encounter dishes adorned with adorable Hello Kitty motifs. From Chinese dim sum to delectable sweets and hearty one-pot meals, there’s something for everyone!
Located near HELLO KITTY SMILE, there’s also HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX, a theater restaurant where you can dine on adorable dishes while enjoying a show featuring Hello Kitty herself. Next to it is HELLO KITTY APPLE HOUSE, offering mesmerizing projection mapping of Hello Kitty.
Fun facts! Both buildings have been recognized by the Guinness World Records™ as the “Largest building in the shape of an apple” and “Largest roof in the shape of a brand character” since 2022! Incredible and adds to their uniqueness, don’t you think?
| Location | HELLO KITTY SMILE |
|---|---|
| Address | 985-1 Nojimahikinoura, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1721 |
| Access | 10 minutes by car from Awaji IC or Hokudan IC on Awaji-Kobe-Naruto Expressway. |
| Parking | Free parking available |
| Operating Hours | Weekdays 11:00~19:00 Sat., Sun, & Public Holidays 10:00~19:00 Please note that each restaurant/café has different operating hours. |
| Closed | Tuesdays |
| Website | https://awaji-resort.com/hellokittysmile/ |
| Reservations | https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1022838-d15190676-Reviews-Hello_Kitty_Smile_Garden_Terrace-Awaji_Awaji_shima_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html |
| Phone Number | 0799-70-9037 |
Click here for details of HELLO KITTY SMILE
Memorable Day Trip for Hello Kitty Fans on Awaji Island
Planning to explore all the Hello Kitty attractions on Awaji Island, like HELLO KITTY SMILE? Are you concerned about transportation? No worries! We’ve crafted a detailed day trip plan just for you!
9:45 AM: Start your Journey from Sannomiya (Kobe)
To reach Awaji Island, your starting point is Sannomiya, a major shopping and transportation hub in Kobe. Head to the Shinki Bus Kobe Sannomiya Bus Terminal, where you’ll catch the Kita-Awaji Nishi-Kaigan Line (Shinki Bus) highway bus departing at 9:45 AM. For detailed access to the bus terminal, check the map below.
You’ll arrive at Nojima Oishi (Miele Mae) Bus Stop at approximately 10:44 AM. From the bus stop, a short 5-minute walk will lead you to your first destination: HELLO KITTY SMILE.
11:00 AM: Otohime Ryugu Castle & Meet Hello Kitty
Go to the reception counter to purchase your tickets. As you step through the door, you’ll be welcomed by the breathtaking projection mapping views, transporting you to an enchanting underwater world at Hello Kitty Otohime Ryugu Castle!
Begin your adventure through 8 captivating zones, each with its unique theme, from the mystical undersea realm to the secretive cave hideout and royal palace. With plenty of opportunities for photography, interactive projection mapping, and even dancing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
On the first floor, you’ll find “Atelier Smile”, an area brimming with activities for kids and grown-ups. From mascot scooping to unglazed pottery painting, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. If these activities pique your interest, be sure to pay a visit to this space!
12:00 PM: Lunchtime at Tamatebako
Make your way up to the second floor where you’ll discover Tamatebako, a luxurious restaurant boasting panoramic views of Awaji Island’s breathtaking ocean scenery. Famed for its Hello Kitty themed one-pot dishes and an array of adorable Hello Kitty course menus, Tamatebako caters to every palate. With options ranging from kids’ menus to a variety of alcoholic beverages, there’s something to delight every guest.
Go to this page to learn about the different menus at HELLO KITTY SMILE.
Hello Kitty is always scheduled to make a special appearance at Tamatebako around 12:00 PM. This offers you the chance to meet her in person and capture some memorable photos together! A wonderful experience!
1:00 PM: Shopping Time! Purchase Hello Kitty Goods Only Available on Awaji Island!
Before you depart, be sure to explore the shops offering many Hello Kitty-themed merchandise, some of which are exclusive to Awaji Island. On the first floor, you’ll find a store stocked with a diverse range of Sanrio character goods, including Hello Kitty. From food souvenirs to stylish accessories, stationery, and cuddly plush toys, you’ll discover a treasure trove of Hello Kitty goods.
Go up to the second floor to visit Smile Boutique, a more upscale shop offering luxurious Hello Kitty themed items such as handbags, office supplies, handkerchiefs, and many more. Enjoy Hello Kitty goods shopping and bring home your favorite Hello Kitty treasures from HELLO KITTY SMILE!
2:00 PM: Enjoy other Hello Kitty Attractions on Awaji Island!
Enjoy convenient transportation between HELLO KITTY SMILE, HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX, and
HELLO KITTY APPLE HOUSE with the free shuttle bus service available on the West Coast of Awaji Island. On weekdays, the bus departs at 2:22 PM, while on weekends, it leaves at 2:32 PM from HELLO KITTY SMILE. The journey takes just 4 minutes.
3:00 PM: HELLO KITTY APPLE HOUSE
HELLO KITTY APPLE HOUSE is a small yet charming destination where visitors can immerse themselves in a mesmerizing 360-degree projection mapping experience. From its observation deck, you can admire the iconic Hello Kitty roof design of the nearby HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX.
3:30 PM: HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX
At HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX, the café show experience is a beloved attraction, offering adorable
Hello Kitty-themed treats paired with captivating jazz performances. Currently, the “Cherish Fanfare” spring performance enchants audiences with a fantastical journey of Hello Kitty through the seasons. With live music and dance, Hello Kitty herself takes the stage in a delightful show suitable for both children and adults. The café show runs from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
Check out the cute café menu here!
| Location | HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX |
|---|---|
| Address | 177-5 Nojimahirabayashi, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1724 |
| Access | 10 minutes by car from Awaji IC and 15 minutes from Hokudan Interchange on Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway. |
| Phone Number | 0799-70-9022 |
| Parking | Free parking available |
| Closed | Wednesdays |
| Operating Hours | 11:00-17:00 |
| Show Time | 12:10-13:30(Open at 11:00, Last In at 12:00) |
| Café and Greetings by HELLO KITTY | 14:00-17:00 Greeting at 14:30-/16:00- Café Show and Greetings by HELLO KITTY: 14:30~ / 16:00~ |
| Website | https://awajiresort.com/hellokittyshowbox/ |
| Reservations | https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1022838-d17793182-Reviews-Hello_Kitty_Show_Box-Awaji_Awaji_shima_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html |
Click here for details of HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX
5:15 PM: Unforgettable Dinner Overlooking the Beautiful Ocean
A quick stroll from HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX is CRAFT CIRCUS, a vibrant complex boasting restaurants and markets. Among them, CRAFT KITCHEN stands out for its incredible pizzas and side dishes. Pairing the scrumptious pizzas with the mesmerizing ocean views enhances the dining experience, especially during the breathtaking sunset for which Awaji Island is renowned.
Have an unforgettable dinner overlooking the beautiful ocean and one of Japan’s finest sunsets!
Explore the CRAFT KITCHEN menu for more details!
6:26 PM: Going Back to Sannomiya (Kobe)
A 10-minute walk from CRAFT CIRCUS is Nojima Ookawa (SEIKAIHA Mae) Bus Stop. From there, you can catch the 6:26 PM bus on the Kita-Awaji Nishi-Kaigan Line (Shinki Bus) highway bus, which goes directly to Shinki Bus Kobe Sannomiya Bus Terminal.
Check out the schedule for the Kita-Awaji Nishi-Kaigan Line (Shinki Bus) highway bus here!
Closing
Awaji Island’s allure is undeniable, especially with the Hello Kitty attractions like HELLO KITTY SMILE. While some may perceive traveling to Awaji Island as daunting, our day trip guide proves it’s quite simple. So, if you’re intrigued, why not go on an adventure to Awaji Island and enter the delightful world of Hello Kitty?
