Adults with no children want to have fun on their vacation too, and Awaji Island has plenty of places that are perfect for an adult getaway itinerary. Whether you are interested in food, mindfulness, nature, history, architecture, arts, or culture, Awaji Island has a spot for you. In this article we will introduce you to the best spots on Awaji Island for every type of adult traveler.
Awaji Island is a primary tourist destination for Japanese locals due to its resort atmosphere and proximity to major cities. Located just 1 hour from Osaka via train/bus or 30 minutes from Kobe via bus, it’s the perfect weekend getaway or day trip for international travelers looking to explore Japan like the locals. With beautiful beaches, cultural gems, abundant restaurants, and exciting activities, Awaji Island is an adult playground.
Table of Contents
- 1) Teppanyaki Restaurant Featuring Awaji Beef
- 2) Mindfulness Retreat Facility
- 3) Farm-to-Table Restaurant
- 4) Enjoy Japanese Culture, Food, History, and Entertainment
- 5) Vintage Sake Shop and Bar
- 6) French Cuisine in an Extraordinary Setting
- 7) Buffet Restaurant with Live Jazz Music
- 8) Former Elementary School Turned Commercial Complex
- 9) Seaside Market and Restaurant for Casual Dining and Shopping
- 10) Flower fields surrounded by Sea and Sky
- 11) Ancient Shrine Linked to the Creation of Japan
- 12) A Marvel of Modern Japanese Architecture
- 13) Temple where Heian-era history meets modern architecture
- 14) Horseback Riding in Nature
- 15) A Mythical Island from Japanese Lore
- Closing
1) Teppanyaki Restaurant Featuring Awaji Beef
Aman no Shokutaku Sajiki
At Aman no Shokutaku Sajiki it’s not just a meal, it’s a cultural experience. Watch the highly trained chefs prepare your meal before your eyes using traditional Japanese techniques, such as Teppanyaki (where ingredients are grilled on an iron top) and Sukiyaki (where thinly sliced meat and vegetables are simmered in a broth).
Sajiki utilizes the freshest and highest quality local ingredients, including Awaji Beef, which is considered one of the highest quality grades in Japan. Pair your meal with wine carefully selected by our sommelier or enjoy a glass of premium-brand aged sake.
There are 12 counter seats where the chef will cook your food on a hot iron plate right in front of you. There is also table seating for an additional 40 guests, allowing for a more spacious meal, or for hosting events. Sajiki is the perfect restaurant for a variety of occasions.
Click here for reservations Utage Click here for reservations Sajiki
| Name | Aman no Shokutaku １F Utage ２F Sajiki |
|---|---|
| Address | 1042 Nojima-Tokiwa, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1726 |
| Tel | "Utage” 0799-70-9089 “Sajiki” 0799-70-9090 |
| Operation Hours | “Utage”: Weekdays 11:00~21:00 (L.O. 20:00) / Sat., Sun. & Holidays 10:30~21:00 (L.O. 20:00) “Sajiki” 11:00~15:00 / 17:00~21:00 (L.O.19:30) Closed: Tuesdays |
| Website | https://amannoshokutaku.jp/ |
| Reservations: Utage | https://www.tablecheck.com/en/shops/aman-utage/reserve |
| Reservations: Sajiki | https://www.tablecheck.com/en/shops/aman-sajiki/reserve |
| Review: Utage | https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1022838-d24037141-Reviews-Aman_No_Shokutaku_Utage-Awaji_Awaji_shima_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html |
| Reservations: Sajiki | https://www.tablecheck.com/en/shops/aman-sajiki/reserve |
Click here for details of Aman no Shokutaku
2) Mindfulness Retreat Facility
Zenbo Seinei
Zenbo Seinei is a Zen retreat aimed at promoting mindfulness, wellbeing, and connection with nature. You can build your experience from different program offerings, such as meditation, yoga, vegetarian cuisine, calligraphy, tea ceremonies, and a mind and soul cleansing session.
The “Zen experience” guides you through a meditation session that unifies the body and soul. The meditation takes place upon the 100-meter-long viewing deck, designed by famous architect Shigeru Ban, that gives you 360-degree views of the surrounding lush mountains. The use of Japanese cedar in its construction brings nature into every step.
Enjoy the Zenbo Cuisine, which uses plant-based ingredients such as porridge, tofu, and vegetables to nourish you from within. In the calligraphy session, participants will write Japanese characters with the stroke of a brush. This is a practice with a long history in Japanese culture, encouraging mindfulness through deep focus on this artistic task. Take part in a Japanese tea ceremony where the preparation and serving of tea are done in a calm and peaceful manner.
In addition to day visits, there is also overnight plans available. The rooms are open and light, where you can enjoy the breathtaking nature of Awaji Island from the floor to ceiling windows. In the evening, experience the “Senshin” cleansing of the mind and soul by soaking in the hot spring bath under the moonlight and absorbing the healing energy of this special place.
| Name | Zenbo Seinei |
|---|---|
| Address | 2594-5 Aza-Banaka, Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-2301 |
| Tel | 0799-70-9087 |
| Website | https://www.zenbo-seinei.com/en/ |
| Program Reservations | https://zenbo-seinei.urkt.in/direct/offices/587/courses |
| Hotel Reservation | https://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/shan-fang-jing-zhu-dan-lu-shi2.html |
| Operation Hours | Mon: 9:00 am～5:00 pm / Tues～Sun: 11:00 am～6:30 pm Closed: Varies depending on a month. Please inquire. |
Click here for details of ZEN Wellness SEINEI
3) Farm-to-Table Restaurant
Haru San San
Haru San San is a farm-to-table restaurant where you can enjoy a healthy meal surrounded by the rich farm fields. Every dish served is exquisite, featuring fresh vegetables as the star of the show. The ingredients are as local as it gets, grown on property or sourced from the community. The fields and waters of Awaji Island have historically provided premium produce for the imperial court of Japan. Here you taste the bounty of Awaji Island.
The menu was carefully crafted by Chef Nobuaki Fushiki, a master of Japanese fermentation techniques, and Chef Masayuki Okuda, ranked as one of the top 1000 chefs in the world. The restaurant was designed by famous architect Shigeru Ban, who aimed to make the construction as equally sustainable and stunning as the food it served. The exterior is inspired by a classic farmhouse, featuring a thatched roof and an open layout. The interior features sculptural pillars made from recycled cardboard. Here is your chance to think about sustainability in our society.
For lunch, we recommend the lunch set, which includes a seasonal salad, soup, and your choice of pasta, pizza, or a meat dish for the main course. For dessert, we recommend the tiramisu and Chocolate Tart.
| 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
4) Enjoy Japanese Culture, Food, History, and Entertainment
SEIKAIHA Complex
SEIKAIHA is a complex that offers restaurants, bars, shops, and live entertainment. It is home to some of the finest restaurants on the island, created by executive producer Haruyuki Yamashita, named one of the world’s best chefs at the World Gourmet Summit. At a theater you can enjoy original shows based on Japanese Culture.
The restaurant Uminoya is themed around the Meiji era, a time when Western and Japanese culture fused. Everything is thoughtfully selected, from the luxury vintage decor to the dishes crafted from Awaji Island ingredients. This restaurant is especially well known for its deserts, including the Zucotto Cake and Retro Pudding. Live music and performances are held regularly for diners to enjoy.
Celebration of the sea is the ethos of Japanese restaurant Aonoya. It serves seasonal nigiri-sushi, and tempura unique to Awaji Island. All seats face the Harimanada sea and offer a spectacular view of the sunset, selected as one of the “100 Best Sunsets in Japan”.
The theater, Naminoritei, presents a wide variety of traditional Japanese performing arts and contemporary performances from around the globe. Performances are held on a monthly basis and feature a wide range of entertainment including music, ballets, and musicals. This is a place where young storytellers and performers come to showcase their talents, and where guest come to see a wide range of cultural performances.
| Location | Seikaiha |
|---|---|
| Address | 70 Nojima-okawa, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1723 |
| Phone Number | 0799-70-9020 |
| Website | https://awaji-seikaiha.com/ |
| Reservations | https://www.tablecheck.com/en/shops/awaji-seikaiha/reserve |
| Access | 10 minutes by car from Awaji IC on Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway. 15 minutes by car from Hokudan IC. |
| Parking | 50 spaces |
Click here for details of SEIKAIHA
5) Vintage Sake Shop and Bar
SEIKAIHA Koshunoya
While Koshunoya is part of the SEIKAIHA complex, it deserves its own highlight on this list. This store and bar offers a wide selection of vintage Japanese sake from over 100 breweries in Japan. This includes long-aged vintage sake from the premium brand Inishie no Bishu. Are you new to sake, or looking for a new favorite? The knowledgeable sommelier will help you find the perfect pairing for your tastes.
The store also offers a workshop for sake lovers where you can blend fine sakes to suite your personal preferences. The experience is 3000 yen. Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are often available.
| Name | SEIKAIHA – Koshunoya |
|---|---|
| Address | 70 Nojima-okawa, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1723 |
| Tel | 0799-70-9020 |
| Website | https://awaji-seikaiha.com/kosyunoya/ |
| Reservations | https://www.tablecheck.com/en/shops/awaji-seikaiha-kosyunoya/reserve |
| Operation Hours | 11:30~21:00 (L.O. 20:00) Closed: Thursdays |
Click here for details of SEIKAIHA – Koshunoya
6) French Cuisine in an Extraordinary Setting
Auberge “French Forest”
At Auberge “French Forest” you will find gourmet French cuisine, as well as refined accommodations. Nestled on a mountain top with stunning nature views, this miniature French neighborhood is a fantastical escape. Visit for an enchanting café time, an immersive dining experience, or a restful night’s stay.
Up-and-coming chefs bring out the best of the fresh Awaji Island ingredients in these three distinct restaurants.
Grand Baobab is a casual French restaurant that blends French and Italian cooking philosophies.
La Rose offers creative cuisine that combines French and Japanese flavors. This restaurant is also well known for its French wine pairings carefully selected by the sommelier.
Prince Etoile is a restaurant where you can enjoy a collaboration of Spanish Basque and French cuisine. Basque Country is a famous region with a well-developed culinary culture adjacent to France. This natural collaboration yields innovative dishes with these classic flavors.
| Name | Auberge “French Forest” |
|---|---|
| Address | 2593-8 Kusumoto Aza Banaka, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-2301 |
| TEL | La Rose 0799-70-6062 Prince Etoile 0799-70-6061 Grand Baobab 0799-70-6063 |
| Website | https://frenchnomori.jp/ |
| Reservations | https://frenchnomori.jp/reservation/ |
| Hotel Reservation | https://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/aubergehurentinosen.ja.html |
| Operation Hours | Lunch – 11:30~15:30 (Last Entry: 13:00) Dinner – 17:30~21:30 (Last Entry: 19:00) |
| Menu | A Full-Course Lunch ￥7,000～/ A Full-Course Dinner ￥10,000～ |
Click here for details of Auberge “French Forest”
7) Buffet Restaurant with Live Jazz Music
Ocean Terrace
At Ocean Terrace, enjoy a feast made from the highest quality Awaji ingredients. This includes fresh Awaji Beef, which is exceptional among Japanese beef due to its limited production and rigorous standards. You can grill up your fresh meat and vegetables yourself on a custom-made lava stone grill while overlooking ocean views. The relaxed atmosphere and ocean views are reminiscent of a luxurious tropical resort.
The sumptuous buffet-style lunch and dinner each features 30 different dishes, as well as a selection of fresh meat and vegetables that you can grill. Jazz Night is held every Saturday night. Enjoy an exquisite steak full-course meal and the vibrant night life of Awaji Island.
| Name | Ocean Terrace |
|---|---|
| Address | 816 Nojimahikinoura, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1721 |
| Tel | 0799-82-1907 |
| Website | https://ocean-terrace-awaji.jp/ |
| Reservations | https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1022838-d17354212-Reviews-Ocean_Terrace-Awaji_Awaji_shima_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html |
| Operation Hours | Lunch 11:30~15:00 (L.O.14:00) / Dinner 17:00~21:00 (L.O.20:00) |
Click here for details of Ocean Terrace
8) Former Elementary School Turned Commercial Complex
Nojima Scuola
This former elementary school was transformed into a community hub and commercial complex. Designed around the themes of “agriculture, food, learning, and art”, this unique building features a café, Italian restaurant, Marché of local goods, and a petting zoo.
The Scuola Marché sells about 250 products. Visitors can buy freshly baked bread, sample Awaji onion soup, and pick up locally made souvenirs in the colorful market.
At Restaurant Scuola, enjoy authentic Italian cuisine made from local ingredients. The menu was crafted by Chef Masayuki Okuda, an advocate of domestic produce utilization and named one of the world’s top 1000 chefs.
The café is the perfect place to stop by for a casual lunch or a coffee break. The café features a Dog Terrace where you can enjoy a bite with your pup. Your fuzzy companion will love running around the old school yard.
No visit to Nojima Scuola is complete without a stop at the petting zoo. Meet friendly goats and kissing alpacas. There are plenty of cute and cuddling animals like guinea pigs and bunnies. An admission fee is required.
What was once an abandoned elementary school has become a symbolic base of regional revitalization of the island, and a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike. Despite its transformation, the jovial atmosphere of this former elementary school remains.
| Name | Nojima Scuola |
|---|---|
| Adress | 843 Nojimahikinoura, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1721 |
| Website | https://www.nojima-scuola.com/ |
| Reservations | 2F Ristorante Scuola https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1022838-d12135206-Reviews-Nojima_Scoula-Awaji_Awaji_shima_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html |
| Tel | 0799-82-1820 |
| Operation Hours | 1F Marché /Bakery: Weekdays 10:30~19:00 Sat., Sun., & Public Holidays 10:00~19:00 1F Café Scuola: Weekdays Lunch 11:00~14:00/ café 14:00~18:00 Sat., Sun., & Public Holidays breakfast 10:00~11:00 Lunch 11:00~15:00 Café 15:00~18:00 2F Ristorante Scuola: 11:30~15:30 (in by 14:00) / 18:00~21:30 (in by 19:30) Outdoor Zoo: Weekdays 11:00~16:00 Sat., Sun. & Public Holidays 10:00~16:00 (13:00~14:00 animals in recess) Closed: Wednesdays (Open on Public Holidays) |
Click here for details of Nojima Scuola
9) Seaside Market and Restaurant for Casual Dining and Shopping
CRAFT CIRCUS
Dine, shop, and enjoy this seaside restaurant and market.
Browse the Craft Marché for produce sourced from local farmers and a curated selection of soy sauce, salt, and miso from around the Seto Inland Sea. Visit the GLOBAL MARKET for one of a kind finds and handcrafted goods from all over the world, including from Japan.
The two restaurants offer a relaxed dining experience featuring fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy seafood dishes or seafood barbecue on a 100m-long wooden terrace at Kaiou Ichiba, or pizzas and colorful drinks at Craft Kitchen. Food from Craft Kitchen can be taken into Kaiou Ichiba. Relax on the open terrace and enjoy stunning views of the open ocean. Craft Circus is located along Awaji Islands Sunset Line, making it the perfect location to enjoy a casual dinner and watch the sun sink beneath the waves.
| 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
10) Flower fields surrounded by Sea and Sky
Awaji Hanasajiki Hyogo Prefectural Park
Awaji Hanasajiki Hyogo Prefectural Park is a vast flower park located on Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture. Seasonal flowers bloom from spring to autumn, bringing their unique beauty to every season.
The park also has a café-restaurant and a shop for local products, making it convenient to grab a bite to eat and/or shop for souvenirs. From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Akashi, Osaka Bay, and the Kitan Straits. The park is a great destination for people of all ages.
11) Ancient Shrine Linked to the Creation of Japan
Izanagi- Jingu Shrine
Izanagi- Jingu Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, and the only grand shrine in the Hyogo prefecture. It enshrines two deities, Izanagi and Izanami.
According to the Kojiki and the Nihon Shoki, the oldest historical texts of Japan, the deity Izanagi and his wife Izanami created the country of Japan, beginning with Awaji Island. The shrine was built at the location where Izanagi resided after creating Japan according to the legend. The area surrounding the Izanagi Shrine is full of beautiful nature and historical buildings, perfect for a stroll after visiting the shrine.
In addition, on the 22nd of every month, the shrine is illuminated. Visiting the shrine lit up at night is an experience that transports you into a mystical world.
12) A Marvel of Modern Japanese Architecture
Awaji Yumebutai
Awaji Yumebutai was designed by world renowned architect Tadao Ando.
This sprawling complex combines modern design and the natural world in a way that yields lots of surprises. Wander through its grounds and discover terrace gardens, waterfalls and shallow pools blanketed with crafted seashells. This spacious facility has lots to explore, including a botanical garden and a restaurant.
13) Temple where Heian-era history meets modern architecture
Honpukuji Temple
This temple is unlike any other in Japan. Honpukuji Temple was originally founded during the Heian period (794-1185). In 1991, the main hall was rebuilt by architect Tadao Ando, who is known for his creative use of natural elements and exposed concrete. The result is a unique mix of history and modern day. Created by the same architect as Awaji Yumebutai, it is recommended to visit these architectural wonders together on your trip to Awaji Island. The collaboration between the historical temple and Ando’s unique brutalist architecture is well worth a visit.
Honpukuji Temple
- 1309-1 Ura, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture, 656-2305
- Business hours: 9:00 am -5:00 pm Open year round
- Adults: 400 yen, Children: 200 yen
14) Horseback Riding in Nature
“Harmony World” Horse Riding Club
What better way to relax and reconnect than by riding horses through the stunning natural scenery of Awaji Island? “Harmony World” is a horse-riding club located on a hill along the northern tip of Awaji Island with stunning views overlooking the sea. First-time riders are welcome! Why not add horseback riding at “Harmony World” to your Awaji Island travel plans?
15) A Mythical Island from Japanese Lore
Nushima Island
This scenic location is deeply rooted in the history and mythology of Japan. According to the Kuniumi Story, Japan’s Creation Myth, the deities Izanagi and Izanami stood upon the heavenly bridge and churned the sea with the Amenonuhoko (heavenly spear). When they pulled it from the ocean, drops fell from the spear creating Onokoro Island. Standing of Onokoro Island, they created the rest of the Japanese archipelago, starting with Awaji Island.
There are many theories about where this mythical island of Onokoro is located around Awaji. Nushima is one of the most credible candidates. Located just 10 minutes by ferry off the southern tip of Awaji Island, this mystical spot is a great place to explore, with walking paths and shrines dedicated to the divine couple.
Closing
Did you find this article helpful? We hope that this thoughtfully curated list has inspired you to add some new spots for your Awaji Island Itinerary.
From Zen retreats and historical sites to fine dining and the performing arts, there is plenty of fun to be had for adults visiting Awaji Island.
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