A single day can offer a world of experiences, especially when you mix the urban charm of Kobe with the adventure and natural beauty of Awaji Island. From exploring Kobe’s cosmopolitan flair to immersing yourself in the fantasy world of Nijigen no Mori, this day trip provides a blend of culture, creativity, and excitement that’s hard to beat.
Table of Contents
Morning in Kobe: History and Harbor Views
The day began in Kobe, a city that effortlessly blends modern design with a rich cultural history. After a quick coffee in the vibrant Sannomiya district, I headed straight for Kitano Ijinkan, an area famous for its historic Western-style houses. Wandering through the picturesque streets, I marvelled at the architecture left behind by foreign settlers in the late 19th century. Each house had its own unique charm, and the views from this hilly neighbourhood were breath-taking—Kobe’s cityscape framed by the Rokko Mountains.
From there, I made my way down to the waterfront and Meriken Park. This area is a modern icon of Kobe, with its striking mix of contemporary art installations and sweeping harbour views. The Kobe Port Tower stands tall against the skyline, offering panoramic views if you’re up for a quick elevator ride to the top. Meanwhile, the sleek design of the Kobe Maritime Museum and its interactive exhibits provide an excellent way to learn about the city’s seafaring past.
A stop in Kobe wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its culinary crown jewel—Kobe beef. I treated myself to a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the rich, buttery flavor of perfectly cooked wagyu. With my appetite satisfied, it was time to set off for the next adventure—Awaji Island.
Crossing to Awaji Island: From Cityscape to Island Escape
The journey to Awaji Island was as exciting as the destination itself. Crossing the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, the second longest suspension bridge in the world, offered stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. The shimmering waters below and the island ahead set the stage for an exciting afternoon.
Once I arrived on Awaji, I made a beeline for Nijigen no Mori, a theme park unlike any other. Nestled in the island’s lush forests, Nijigen no Mori (Awaji Island Anime Park) brings together nature and Japanese pop culture for an immersive experience that’s perfect for both adults and kids alike.
For access to Awaji Island from Kobe-Sannomiya, please click here.
Afternoon Adventure: Nijigen no Mori
At Nijigen no Mori, you step into a world of fantasy and adventure. The park is divided into different themed zones, each based on popular Japanese anime and manga, and it was hard to decide which to explore first. I started with the Naruto and Boruto Shinobi-Zato attraction, where I could test my ninja skills by solving puzzles and completing physical challenges. Walking through the giant recreation of the Hidden Leaf Village was surreal, with life-sized statues of Naruto characters and themed activities that made me feel like I’d entered the anime itself.
For a change of pace, I ventured into the Crayon Shin-chan Adventure Park next. Here, the treetop obstacle course had me climbing, swinging, and zipping through the air, surrounded by the stunning forest backdrop. While the attractions are designed with kids in mind, the fun-filled experience is great for anyone seeking an active, outdoor challenge, and what a challenge; the top course was tough! The blend of nature and anime-themed adventure gave me a sense of awe and excitement, making it one of the most unique theme parks I’ve ever visited. As the afternoon sun began to mellow, I took a short walk through the park’s quieter trails, where the sound of birds and rustling leaves reminded me of Awaji’s natural beauty. The peacefulness of the forest was a perfect counterpoint to the action-packed day.
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| Park Name | NIJIGEN NO MORI |
|---|---|
| Address | 2425-2 Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-2301 |
| TEL | 0799-64-7061 |
| Website | https://nijigennomori.com/ |
| Reservations | https://ticket.nijigennomori.com/en/ |
| Operation Hours | Everyday10:00-22:00 *Each attraction has a different last reception time and closing time. |
Click here for details of NIJIGEN NO MORI
Wrapping Up: Return to Kobe
After a thrilling afternoon at Nijigen no Mori, I headed back to Kobe, crossing the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge once again, this time bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. The sky turned shades of pink and purple, reflecting off the calm waters of the sea. It was a beautiful moment of reflection after such a dynamic day.
In just a few short hours, I’d experienced the best of both worlds—Kobe’s sophisticated urban charm and Awaji Island’s playful, nature-immersed adventure. Whether you’re drawn to history and architecture or seeking something a little more offbeat with a touch of anime magic, this day trip delivers the perfect mix of experiences.
