A journey taken by car, offers the freedom to explore various destinations at your own pace. What makes road trips enjoyable is the flexibility they provide, allowing travelers to discover new places, try the local cuisine, and create lasting memories with companions.
Did you know that Awaji Island, located in the Seto Island Sea, offers one of the best road trip experiences in Japan? In this article, we will explore why.
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Observe Japan’s Finest Sunset During Your Road Trip
I think we can all agree that a road trip without any scenery is pretty dull. Now, envision a journey where the open road stretches alongside the ocean, and to top it off, you get to witness one of Japan’s top sunsets. Suddenly, it becomes infinitely more enticing.
Located in the eastern part of the stunning Seto Inland Sea, Awaji Island may be small in size, but it is abundant in natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage. Renowned as one of the prime spots for sunset viewing, Awaji Island sits along the “sunset line”, offering unparalleled views.
The “Sunset Line” runs down the western shore of Awaji Island. This scenic route provides a perfect opportunity for travelers to behold the sun’s majestic descent over the Harima-nada Sea during the early evening, making it an ideal choice for a memorable road trip.
Awaji Island Gourmet Road Trip Adventure
Road trips are also about indulging in gourmet experiences too. Imagine hitting the road and discovering unique restaurants that pique your interest along the way. Awaji Island has many amazing and distinctive dining establishments along its west coast, ensuring you will find restaurants that will satisfy your culinary cravings. Here are some recommendations.
miele: Unique Pizzas, Honey-themed Desserts, and Stunning Views
“miele” means honey in Italian, and is synonymous with desserts, so be sure to sample the delightful honey-themed treats at this beautiful oceanside spot; truly extraordinary. Another must-try is their signature pizzas, boasting flavors you will not find elsewhere. Awaji Island is renowned for shirasu (whitebait), and their shirasu pizza, topped generously with unlimited whitebait, is a standout. Craving something sweet? Indulge in their occasional dessert pizzas, available for a limited time. If you are seeking distinctive cuisine with a view of the ocean, you’re in for a treat at “miele”.
| Name | miele |
|---|---|
| Adress | 785-9 Nojimahikinoura, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1721 |
| Tel | 0799-80-2600 |
| Operation Hours | Weekdays 11:00~19:00 (L.O.18:30) Sat., Sun, & Public Holidays 9:30~19:30 (L.O.19:00) Closed: Tuesdays In Aug. and Sept. it will not be closed on Tuesdays |
| Website | https://www.miele-da-scuola.com/ |
Click here for details of miele
Ocean Terrace: Unforgettable Awaji Beef Dining Experience
Awaji Island takes pride in its prestigious Awaji Beef, celebrated as one of Japan’s finest ingredients for its rarity and exquisite marbling. In this spacious venue accommodating up to 100 guests, try the outstanding buffet experience offering approximately 30 delectable dishes, meticulously crafted by highly-skilled chefs.
They use premium ingredients, including the signature self-roasted Ebisu mochi pork (served exclusively during lunch) and roasted Awaji beef (available during dinner). This is the perfect place for a a more substantial dinner/lunch during your road trip.
| 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
Aonoya: Simple yet Fancy
For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Aonoya is the perfect destination. Popular for its exquisite sushi and tempura, each dish meticulously crafted to perfection. The seafood is exceptionally fresh, ensuring a delightful culinary journey with every bite. If you are arriving a bit later in the day, you can watch a projection mapping against the backdrop of the stunning ocean and sunset views.
Read this article to learn more about our experience visiting Aonoya.
| 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
Closing
Picture a road trip where every turn unveils stunning ocean panoramas and picturesque sunsets while inviting you to explore a variety of restaurants offering diverse cuisines. Awaji Island is that place, and it emerges as the perfect destination for such an adventure, combining breathtaking natural beauty with culinary adventure. It’s the ultimate road trip experience waiting to be discovered in Japan.
