Lately, the term “adventure tourism” has been gaining significant popularity among travelers. This type of tourism focuses on seeking out new and unique experiences, often in rural settings, that offer a sense of excitement and discovery. In this article, we will dive deeper into the concept of adventure tourism and introduce Awaji Island as an ideal destination for this exciting type of travel.
Table of Contents
- Combine Nature, Culture, and Unique Experiences to Fully Enjoy an Adventure Tourism on Awaji Island
- Unique Activities Amidst the Wonderful Nature of Awaji Island
- Explore Your Inner Self through Zen at Zenbo Seinei, a Retreat among Nature
- Immerse Yourself in the “Kawaii” World of Hello Kitty on Awaji Island
- Discover an ancient Japan on Awaji Island
- Learn Traditional Fishing on Awaji Island
- Hiking and Trekking on Awaji Island
- Natural Indigo Dyeing Experience on Awaji Island
- Closing
Combine Nature, Culture, and Unique Experiences to Fully Enjoy an Adventure Tourism on Awaji Island
According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), adventure tourism is a type of travel that involves exploring new and unique experiences, often with a focus on physical activity, cultural exchange, and interaction with nature. This form of tourism is designed to provide a sense of excitement and discovery, appealing to those who seek more than just conventional sightseeing.
Since adventure tourism involves activities, culture, and nature, Awaji Island is perfect for this type of travel. Located in the Kansai area within the Seto Inland Sea, Awaji Island is known as the first island to exist in Japan according to the legends written in historical records. Stunning natural landscapes pervade the island and offer a variety of activities, making it an ideal destination for adventure tourism. Recent revitalization efforts have further enhanced the environment, providing an even better experience for visitors. An access to the island is also easy with a highway bus from Kobe-Sannomiya as well as other major transportation hubs, one-hour drive from Osaka and 30-min drive from Kobe.
Unique Activities Amidst the Wonderful Nature of Awaji Island
We have mentioned the numerous revitalization efforts on Awaji Island in recent years, leading to the development of various facilities offering unique experiences. Among these, NIJIGEN NO MORI stands out as a top recommendation, an anime theme park where you can immerse yourself in a world of anime-related attractions.
This expansive theme park is divided into smaller sections, each dedicated to popular anime and games like Naruto, Dragon Quest, Godzilla, and Crayon Shin-chan. At the Naruto Theme Park, you can live out your ninja dreams and take on exciting missions. Meanwhile, the Dragon Quest area offers an immersive RPG experience, allowing you to go on adventures and battle enemies.
For thrill-seekers, the park features a variety of zip lines. Imagine ziplining into the mouth of Godzilla or soaring through the wonderful nature of Awaji Island in the Crayon Shin-chan area.
No matter which activities you choose, you will be amazed by the diverse range of experiences offered at Nijigen no Mori. And what makes it even more special is that you’ll enjoy these adventures surrounded by the natural beauty of Awaji Island!
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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
Explore Your Inner Self through Zen at Zenbo Seinei, a Retreat among Nature
While you can excite your outer self through various attractions at NIJIGEN NO MORI, why not explore and find out who you are through Japanese meditation and traditional arts? At Zenbo Seinei on Awaji Island designed by a world famous architect, Shigeru Ban, you will have an adventure of experiencing zen meditation, calligraphy, tea ceremony, vegan cuisine and more among pristine nature. No problem, even if you are an novice in these practices. There are comfortable chairs you sit on to do a meditation in a natural way, without sitting on a floor. In a calligraphy session, you will have a sample to look at.
| 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://rsv.temanasi.jp/29/room/search |
| 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
Immerse Yourself in the “Kawaii” World of Hello Kitty on Awaji Island
Hello Kitty has been a famous icon of Japanese “kawaii (cute)” culture. This adventure might miss thrilling moments as in NIJIGEN NO MORI, but will definitely make everyone happy and full of smile. Awaji Island is like a paradise for Hello Kitty fans with two facilities where you can actually meet Hello Kitty herself in person and even take a memorable photo together!!
HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX is a theater restaurant where you can delight yourself in a live show by Hello Kitty herself and her jazz band with songs and dances. The great performance can be enjoyed either with lunch or afternoon tea, both a vegan menu.
The exciting part is a meet & greet time at the end of each show. You can meet Hello Kitty herself and take a photo together. She might even give you a hug!
| 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
Another must-visit is HELLO KITTY APPLE HOUSE located just next to HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX. This was certified as the Largest Building in the Shape of an Apple by Guinness World Records in 2022. Inside this cute house, there is 360-degree theater with projection mappings featuring Hello Kitty’s dream. In addition, its roof top observation deck will give you a “kawaii” surprise! You will be able to see the Largest Roof in the Shape of a Brand Character certified by Guinness World Records in 2022. It is the roof of HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX which you can only see from this observation deck.
Another not-to-be-missed place is HELLO KITTY SMILE, a multi-media gallery and restaurants featuring Hello Kitty greeting, dining, shopping and more. A big Hello Kitty’s head distinguishes this architecture among other building.
The multimedia gallery made up with eight sections features Hello Kitty as “Otohime” (dragon princess) living in a Palace of Dragon King. These areas include Under the Sea, Cave, Palace Entrance, Palace Theater, Under Palace, Mirror Maze, Time After Party, and Hello Kitty’s Room. Each area features Hello Kitty based on a Japanese folklore. Depending on the time, Hello Kitty dressed as Japanese-style princess will come to the last area, Hello Kitty’s Room to meet and greet you. You are welcomed to take a photo together.
| 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
Discover an ancient Japan on Awaji Island
Another one of our recommendations is to explore the Gossa Kaito Iseki Ruins, where you can discover ancient artifacts and traditional equipment dating back to the Yayoi Period (1st to 2nd Century). Located amidst lush greenery, this area offers a picturesque setting for immersing yourself in history and appreciating the remnants of the past.
Learn Traditional Fishing on Awaji Island
If you’re interested in fishing, consider the fishing experience on Awaji Island, where you can learn about the island’s rich history as the “Land of Royal Provisions”. Learn about traditional fishing methods and the island’s cultural connection to the sea. Plus, try the freshest seafood straight from the waters surrounding Awaji Island for a truly fun and exciting adventure.
Hiking and Trekking on Awaji Island
Awaji Island, bursting with natural beauty, is the ideal destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. Experience breathtaking views of the ocean and iconic bridges as you explore the island’s trails. Discover hidden shrines and historical sites nestled along your hiking route. This is the perfect choice for those seeking adventure tourism that offers freedom and a deep connection with nature!
Natural Indigo Dyeing Experience on Awaji Island
If you are into a slow fashion and making your own clothing/small fashionable items, you should not miss an experience of natural indigo dyeing on Awaji Island.
A place to go is a unique store-workshop named AiAii, owned by Sally Hancox from England and her Japanese husband Junichi Okada, which they established in 2019. The couple conduct workshops on dyeing fabrics made of cotton and linen using the natural indigo dyeing method.
Closing
Adventure tourism has surged in popularity as travelers seek authentic and unique experiences. This type of travel encompasses nature, culture, and immersive activities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking thrills and exploration. For adventurers in search of such experiences, we highly recommend Awaji Island as your destination.
Popular for its diverse activities, from hiking and trekking to anime-themed attractions and fishing experiences, Awaji Island offers something for every adventurer. If you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, add Awaji Island to your itinerary!
