The Kansai region is a top destination for tourists, who often visit iconic cities like Osaka and Kyoto. However, this area also offers hidden treasures such as Awaji Island—a favorite getaway for locals seeking natural beauty, gourmet cuisine, and unique attractions like the anime theme park Nijigen No Mori.
Awaji Island is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery, lush parks, and relaxing hot springs. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, explore beautifully landscaped gardens, and savor fresh seafood and local delicacies. The island’s laid-back atmosphere provides a refreshing contrast to the bustling cities of Kansai, making it an ideal addition to any itinerary. Its convenient location, 30 minutes from Kobe, 1 hour from Osaka or 1.5 hours to Kyoto, allows travelers to easily experience a blend of culture, nature, and adventure. This guide offers a blend of all that the island has to offer, from Zen retreats, Hello Kitty attractions, and thrilling days at the anime theme park.
This 5-day ultimate guide to the Kansai region brings together all three destinations, helping you discover must-see sights while enjoying the tranquility of the Japanese countryside. With each location just 30 minutes to an hour apart, you can experience a diverse range of activities with minimal travel and maximum enjoyment.
Table of Contents
- Day 1: Exciting Anime Theme Park, Ancient Shrine, and Restorative Onsen
- Morning: Arrive in Japan and Head to the Anime Theme Park!
- Lunch: Epic Eats Right Out of an Anime
- Afternoon: Explore One of Japan’s Oldest Shinto Shrines
- Evening: Overnight Stay at Relaxing Hot Spring Inn
- Day 2: Hello Kitty Adventure, Seaside Restaurant, and Zen Retreat
- Morning: Slow Breakfast and Hello Kitty Themed Attraction
- Lunch: Seafood Along the Seashore – in Style
- Evening: Unwind and Dine at a Zen Retreat in the Heart of Nature
- Day 3: Experience Thrills in Osaka
- Morning: Travel to Osaka
- Evening: Explore the Lights and Stay Overnight in Osaka
- Day 4: Japanese Culture and Scenery in Kyoto
- Morning Journey to Kyoto from Osaka
- Mid-Day: Explore Kyoto
- Evening: Journey Back to City Life in Osaka
- Day 5: Explore Osaka Before Heading Home
- Morning: Souvenir Shopping and Sightseeing in Osaka
- Afternoon: Back to Kansai International Airport to Journey Home
- Closing
Day 1: Exciting Anime Theme Park, Ancient Shrine, and Restorative Onsen
Begin your Japan trip by immersing yourself in the country’s rich culture. Explore modern pop culture at an innovative anime theme park Nijigen no Mori and visit an ancient shrine on the island considered the birthplace of Japan. End your day with an essential Japanese tradition: an overnight stay at the hot spring ryokan inn Senshin Waho.
Morning: Arrive in Japan and Head to the Anime Theme Park!
Kansai International Airport: Easy Access to our First Stop!
Image: cropped and color edited from original by redlegsfan21, Wikipedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0
The trip begins!
Arriving in Kansai International Airports gives us easy access to our first destination, Awaji Island, via an airport bus. Upon request, we can also arrange for a dedicated assistant to greet you upon your arrival, and charter transport in a private vehicle. This is also an excellent opportunity to relax after your long flight and enjoy the scenery during the drive.
Nijigen No Mori Theme Park (1): an Epic Adventure of Anime and Japanese Pop Culture!
ⓒ臼井儀人／双葉社・シンエイ・テレビ朝日・ADK
Begin your trip with a memorable morning at Nijigen no Mori on Awaji Island. Enjoy exploring the unique attractions inspired by popular anime and games, such as the thrilling Godzilla zipline, the playful Crayon Shinchan Adventure Park, the immersive Dragon Quest adventure, and the epic NARUTO&BORUTO SHINOBI-ZATO. In addition to these 4 permanent attraction areas, there are always fun additional collaborations to explore! The attractions are located within the nature of a lush park, making it the perfect place to stroll, explore, and picnic between epic attractions. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a fan of Japanese pop culture, visiting Nijigen no Mori will be an unforgettable start to your trip to Japan!
| 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
Lunch: Epic Eats Right Out of an Anime
Nijigen No Mori: Enjoy Delicious Anime Inspired Meals at the Attraction Areas!
Try the real-life Ichiraku Ramen within the NARUTO&BORUTO SHINOBI-ZATO attraction at Nijigen no Mori!
The first meal of your trip might end up being one of the most memorable! Ever watch your favorite anime and find yourself craving Naruto’s bowl of ramen? Now those cravings can finally be satisfied with a visit to the real Ichiraku Ramen within the NARUTOBORUTO SHINOBI-ZATO attraction at Nijigen no Mori! Order Naruto’s favorite or make the bowl your own, take a seat on a bar stool, and slurp up the authentic flavors!
Nijigen No Mori has creative and delicious food options for all your favorite attractions. Get a Godzilla curry, a colorful Shinchan dessert, or dine at Luida’s Bar for all things Dragon Quest themed. Dishes are made with fresh local ingredients from Awaji Island, meaning they are a feast for more than just your eyes.
| 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
Afternoon: Explore One of Japan’s Oldest Shinto Shrines
Izanagi Shrine (2): Explore Ancient Traditions, Culture, and the Mythology of Awaji
After exploring Japans modern pop-culture at Nijigen no Mori, take a trip to this ancient site. Izanagi Shrine is one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines and is dedicated to the deities Izanagi and Izanami, who are considered the creators of the Japanese islands according to mythology. The shrine’s history dates back over a thousand years, making it a significant cultural and spiritual site. Visitors are often fascinated by its ancient architecture, sacred trees, and serene atmosphere. The shrine is also known for hosting traditional festivals and rituals that provide insight into Japan’s rich religious heritage. These historical and cultural aspects make Izanagi Shrine an interesting and meaningful destination for travelers seeking to connect with Japan’s past and spiritual traditions.
Evening: Overnight Stay at Relaxing Hot Spring Inn
Senshin Waho (3): A Traditional Japanese Onsen Inn
After a day of exploration, unwind at Senshin Waho, a traditional onsen inn that offers a truly authentic Japanese experience. Each room is thoughtfully designed to highlight the beauty of the surrounding landscape, allowing you to enjoy stunning views of the sun setting over the sea from the comfort of your own space. Immerse yourself in the soothing hot spring baths, which are renowned for their restorative properties and are said to rejuvenate both body and mind. During your stay, you will also be treated to a luxurious dinner, expertly prepared with fresh, local ingredients, showcasing the region’s culinary delights. This combination of relaxation, breathtaking scenery, and exquisite cuisine ensures a memorable and rejuvenating visit.
| 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 |
Ready to book your Awaji Island adventure? Contact us today!
Day 2: Hello Kitty Adventure, Seaside Restaurant, and Zen Retreat
Enjoy a relaxing and memorable day on Awaji Island, blending playful attractions, scenic coastal dining, and peaceful retreat-style accommodation. Start by visiting a the charming hello kitty themed attraction, HELLO KITTY SMILE, filled with photo spots and interactive experiences, then savor authentic Japanese cuisine at a seaside restaurant while taking in beautiful ocean views. In the afternoon unwind at a serene zen retreat in the heart of nature. An overnight stay with at Zenbo Seinei provides the perfect enviroment to rest and recharge after a full day of exploration.
Morning: Slow Breakfast and Hello Kitty Themed Attraction
Senshin Waho Traditional Japanese Breakfast for a Serene Start
Get a nourishing start to your morning with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Senshin Waho. Enjoy the soft morning light over the sea and soak in the last of this accommodation’s relaxing atmosphere before checking out and embarking on your adventure for the day.
HELLO KITTY SMILE (4): Dive into an Underwater Hello Kitty World
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Experience a magical morning at HELLO KITTY SMILE, where you’ll journey through immersive multimedia spaces. Begin at the Multimedia Gallery’s Under the Sea Cave & Mirror Maze, where vibrant, animated fish swim up a waterfall and a neon Hello Kitty mermaid scene creates the perfect selfie spot. Listen closely to the cave rocks to hear echoes of Hello Kitty hidden beneath the waves. Cross the bridge to reach the Palace Theater, where you can join an underwater party with Hello Kitty in a Otohime costume. Stunning projection mapping brings the sea to life, inviting you to dance and glide alongside Hello Kitty and sea turtles. Conclude your adventure in Hello Kitty’s Room, where Hello Kitty sometimes appears in her unique underwater princess costume—exclusive to HELLO KITTY SMILE—for memorable photo opportunities.
Don’t forget to explore the shops for exclusive merchandise and express your creativity at Atelier Smile by painting ceramic Hello Kitty figures, designing vinyl decorations, or making sand art to take home. Every moment at HELLO KITTY SMILE is filled with wonder, creativity, and unforgettable memories!
| 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.tablecheck.com/en/shops/hellokitty-smile2restaurant/reserve |
| Review | 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
Lunch: Seafood Along the Seashore – in Style
SEIKAIHA – Aonoya (5) Japanese Restaurant with Sea Views
Aonoya offers seaside veiws and an exceptional dining experience of traditional Japanese cusine on Awaji Island. Located within the SEIKAIHA complex, every seat in the restaurant faces the ocean, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking sea views while you dine. The tiered box seating, inspired by a theater, ensures everyone has an uninterrupted view. At Aonoya, skilled chefs prepare delicious, traditional Japanese cuisine right in front of you, ensuring every dish is made fresh to order. The menu features sushi and tempura made from the freshest seafood caught at Yura Port and the Seto Inland Sea, as well as vegetables grown on their own farm and sourced from local farmers. This dedication to authentic Japanese cooking, quality ingredients, and the stunning coastal setting make Aonoya the perfect choice for a memorable lunch.
| Name | SEIKAIHA - Aonoya |
|---|---|
| Address | 70 Nojima-okawa, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1723 |
| Tel | 0799-70-9020 |
| Website | https://awaji-seikaiha.com/aonoya/ |
| Reservations | https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1022838-d21197787-Reviews-Seikaiha_Aonoya-Awaji_Awaji_shima_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html |
| Operating Hours | 11:00~15:00 (Last In 14:00, L.O. 14:00) 17:00~21:00 (Last In 19:30, L.O. 20:00) Closed: Thursdays |
Click here for details of SEIKAIHA - Aonoya
Evening: Unwind and Dine at a Zen Retreat in the Heart of Nature
Connect with your Inner Zen at Zenbo Seinei (6)
After lunch, check into Zenbo Seinei, a retreat facility located in the northern part of Awaji Island. Centered around Zen, this accommodation offers an experience that promotes mindfulness, healing, and connection with the beautiful surrounding nature.
Spend your afternoon taking part in programs such as meditation and yoga, as well as optional Japanese cultural experiences such as a Zen tea ceremony and Zen calligraphy.
The building, made from Japanese cedar, was designed by world-renowned architect Shigeru Ban. It features a 100-meter-long observation deck that floats among the trees. On the lower levels are the dining room and guest rooms, which were designed in a minimalistic style.
Dine on Vegan Zenbo Cusine
End of your day with the vegan Zenbo cuisine included as part of your stay. The food is prepared without the use of animal products, flour, oil, or white sugar, making it suitable for most dietary restrictions and gentle on the digestive system.
This innovative cuisine values the history of Japanese food culture, with a particular emphasis on fermentation. This traditional method gives food a complex flavor and adds health benefits such as boosted immunity and improved digestion.
The dishes take advantage of the abundant nature of Awaji Island, known as the “land of food” since ancient times due to its role in supplying food to the imperial court. The use of locally grown seasonal ingredients helps tie you closer to your natural surroundings.
Stay the Night in Minimalistic Luxury Enhanced by the Surrounding Nature
Carry the rest and relaxation into the evening by staying at the Zen Retreat overnight. Meditate in the moonlight before retreating to your room for the night. The rooms are luxurious, yet minimal. The floor-to-ceiling windows invite natural light and warmth into the bright cedar rooms. This space grants you the perfect place to find moments of peace and solitude.
Interested? Drop us an inquiry and explore Awaji Island with us today!
Day 3: Experience Thrills in Osaka
The nearby city of Osaka has plenty to offer and explore. Check in to a hotel here for the remaining two nights to allow for easy exploration. On this first day, explore some of the unique draws that Osaka has to offer, including its theme parks and cityscapes.
Morning: Travel to Osaka
Head to the City Only a Convenient Hour Away
After 2 days of adventure and relaxation in the heart of nature, it is time to say goodbye to Awaji Island and explore the thrills that the city of Osaka has to offer.
The city is located a convenient 1-hour from Awaji Island. Make the short journey easily by car or public transit.
Day: Amusment Parks in Osaka
Ready for a day packed with excitement? Osaka is home to a variety of amusement parks offering everything from gentle, family-friendly attractions to high-speed rides for thrill seekers. Whether you’re traveling with kids or chasing an adrenaline rush, today is all about stepping into immersive worlds and enjoying nonstop fun from morning to night.
Evening: Explore the Lights and Stay Overnight in Osaka
After your day of thrills, stay the night in Osaka to take in the vibrant city lights and set yourself up for easy exploring!
Day 4: Japanese Culture and Scenery in Kyoto
Kyoto is a favourite among foreigners travelling to the Kansai region, as it allows visitors to experience the country’s traditional side. From iconic shrines and seasonal scenery to local cuisine and traditional shopping districts, Kyoto packs an incredible amount of history and atmosphere into a single day, making it an easy and rewarding addition to any Kansai itinerary.
Morning Journey to Kyoto from Osaka
An Easy 30- Minute Journey from the Vibrant City to Historic Streets
Traveling between Osaka and Kyoto is fast, affordable, and incredibly convenient, with frequent train services that connect the two cities in under an hour. While Osaka is known for its lively streets, modern entertainment, and vibrant food scene, Kyoto offers a more tranquil setting filled with historic temples, traditional neighborhoods, and scenic gardens. Enjoy the best of both worlds with minimal travel time.
Rent Kimonos in Kyoto
Starting your morning in Kyoto by renting a kimono is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the city’s traditional atmosphere from the very beginning of the day. Strolling through historic streets and temple areas in traditional attire adds a special sense of occasion and makes sightseeing feel more meaningful and memorable. It’s also a great opportunity for photos, allowing travelers to capture Kyoto’s timeless scenery while fully embracing the cultural experience.
Mid-Day: Explore Kyoto
A Blend of Heritage and Nature in One City.
After getting dressed, spend the rest of your day exploring Kyoto’s many cultural and scenic highlights. Join a matcha experience to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a calm moment rooted in centuries-old tradition, then head out to discover natural scenery perfect for a relaxing stroll and unforgettable photos. From bamboo-lined paths to riverside views and seasonal gardens, Kyoto offers countless beautiful spots where you can slow down, take in the surroundings, and capture the city’s unique blend of nature and heritage.
Evening: Journey Back to City Life in Osaka
As the day in Kyoto comes to an end, it’s time to head back to Osaka for a comfortable night’s rest. Thanks to the quick and convenient train connections, the return journey is smooth and stress-free, giving you time to relax after a full day of sightseeing. Back in Osaka, you head out to enjoy the city’s night life, or you can unwind at your hotel and recharge, ready for the next day of adventures ahead.
Why wait? Contact us today to plan your next Japan trip!
Day 5: Explore Osaka Before Heading Home
Morning: Souvenir Shopping and Sightseeing in Osaka
Spend your final morning exploring the lively streets of Osaka, visiting some of the city’s most famous sightseeing spots and soaking up its energetic atmosphere one last time. Highlights like Osaka Castle, the neon-lined canals of Dotonbori, the bustling Kuromon Market, and the retro streets of Shinsekai each offer a different side of the city, from history to street food and local culture. It’s also the perfect time to fit in some last-minute shopping and souvenir hunting before wrapping up your Kansai adventure. With so much to see and do in compact, easy-to-navigate areas, you can make the most of every moment while wrapping up your Kansai adventure on a high note.
Afternoon: Back to Kansai International Airport to Journey Home
Traveling from Osaka to Kansai International Airport is easy and convenient, with several transportation options to suit different travel styles and budgets. Direct trains offer a fast and reliable route from major stations, while airport limousine buses provide comfortable door-to-door service from popular hotel areas. Taxis are also available for those with lots of luggage or odd flight times. With frequent departures and clear signage, getting to the airport is stress-free and straightforward, making for a smooth end to your trip.
Why wait? Book your ultimate Kansai adventure with us today!
Closing
This 5-day Kansai itinerary brings together the best of vibrant city life and peaceful island escapes, offering a well-rounded journey through one of Japan’s most diverse regions. From the iconic sights and cultural heritage of Osaka and Kyoto to the coastal scenery, relaxing retreats, and unique attractions of Awaji Island, each day adds a new layer to your travel experience. With short travel times between destinations, you can enjoy more sightseeing and less time in transit, making this itinerary ideal for travelers who want to experience both the energy of Japan’s famous cities and the calm beauty of its countryside in one unforgettable trip. Let us plan the perfect Kansai trip for you today!
