Tokyo, a city brimming with unique offerings such as gourmet experiences and captivating attractions, has much to offer. However, venturing outside of Tokyo unveils numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Among these, Awaji Island, situated in the Seto Inland Sea, stands out as a charming destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history, delectable cuisine, and unique charm of Japan. In this article, we will present a curated list of recommended overnight trip from Tokyo to Awaji Island.
Table of Contents
Access from Tokyo to Awaji Island
Awaji Island might seem distant from Tokyo, but worry not, various transportation options are enabling a swift journey from Tokyo, with the Shinkansen being highly recommended. Additionally, flights are available, connecting Tokyo to the Kobe area (Kobe Airport), from where Awaji Island can be easily reached using highway buses. This convenience extends to Shinkansen travel, as you will arrive in the Kobe area (Shin-kobe Station). From Kobe-sannomiya, it is just 30-min ride on a highway bus. For more details on access, click here.
Upon reaching Awaji Island’s west coast, a complimentary shuttle bus service awaits, granting you the freedom to explore various facilities at your own pace. This added convenience enhances your ability to fully enjoy your day trip from Tokyo.
Overnight Trip from Tokyo to Awaji Island for Anime Lovers
The presence of an anime park on Awaji Island, known as Nijigen no Mori located in the Hyogo Prefectural Awaji Island Park, is bound to evoke excitement among visitors. This unique experience, exclusive to Awaji Island, makes a visit solely for this attraction worthwhile. At Nijigen no Mori, people can try attractions inspired by beloved anime and games like Naruto, Godzilla, Dragon Quest, and more. The park frequently introduces time-limited attractions, such as past features like Demon Slayer and City Hunter.
For anime lovers, a visit to Nijigen no Mori is undoubtedly a highlight that adds significant value to their overnight trip from Tokyo. Click here to learn more about Nijigen no Mori.
Consider an overnight stay at GRAND CHARIOT, a hotel located just beside Nijigen no Mori. What sets this hotel resort apart is its character-themed rooms, featuring designs inspired by popular anime such as Naruto and Shin-chan. Picture an overnight trip brimming with anime adventures from morning until the next day, an extraordinary opportunity uniquely available on Awaji Island!
©岸本斉史 スコット／集英社・テレビ東京・ぴえろ
| 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
Perfect Overnight Trip from Tokyo for Nature Lovers
Awaji Island is perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking respite from Tokyo’s urban hustle and bustle. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and the serene sea, the island offers a calming escape into nature. Famous for its breathtaking sunset, selected among the “Top 100 Sunsets in Japan”, Awaji Island has become an irresistible destination for those who appreciate nature.
Zenbo Seinei
Zenbo Seinei, designed by the famous architect Shigeru Ban, is your perfect destination for peace amidst the stunning nature of Awaji Island. With an eco-conscious design incorporating Japanese Cedarwood, this retreat features a 100-meter deck providing captivating views of lush greenery. You can also engage in activities such as yoga, meditation, and eating Zen Cuisine, all designed to foster inner tranquility.
Whether choosing a short 3-hour program or an overnight stay, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while participating in activities aimed at enhancing your well-being.
| 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
GRAND CHARIOT Hokutoshichisei 135°
Grand Chariot is a captivating glamping facility on Awaji Island, seamlessly blending local charm with the luxuries of a 5-star facility. The uniquely shaped “Cocoons” rooms, allow guests to gaze at starry skies through a skylight positioned more than 5 meters above, creating a natural planetarium experience. The rooms are bathed in the soft glow of natural dawn light in the morning.
Situated atop the highest hill within the expansive Hyogo Prefectural Awaji Island Park, sprawling across 134 hectares/331 acres, GRAND CHARIOT Hokutoshichisei 135° offers panoramic views of the world’s second-longest suspension bridge, the Akashi Kaikyo Ohashi. As night falls, the twinkle of stars mirrors the city lights of the Kobe skyline across the bay.
For nature enthusiasts, an overnight trip from Tokyo that includes Grand Chariot promises a perfect experience. Beyond the breathtaking scenery, the opportunity to enhance your well-being adds an extra layer of appeal to this captivating destination.
| Name | GRAND CHARIOT |
|---|---|
| Adress | 2425-2 Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-2301 Located at Nijigen no Mori in Hyogo Prefecture Awajishima Park |
| Tel | 0799-64-7090 |
| Website | https://awaji-grandchariot.com/ |
| Reservations | https://go-grandchariot.reservation.jp/en |
Overnight Trip from Tokyo to Awaji Island for Hello Kitty Enthusiasts
Awaji Island’s well-kept secret is its abundance of Hello Kitty-related facilities, a delightful revelation for enthusiasts of this charming character. For fans looking to use their trip from Tokyo to “meet” Hello Kitty, Awaji Island offers a wide variety of activities centered around this adorable icon.
HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX
HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX stands as a popular Hello Kitty-themed theater restaurant on Awaji Island, offering guests a unique dining experience. Enjoy the lively melodies and dances of a Hello Kitty jazz band while eating a delicious vegan lunch. During the café time, it also hosts a captivating show and the both shows provide a special opportunity for a meet-and-greet with the beloved Hello Kitty.
Click here to read about our experience visiting HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX.
| 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
HELLO KITTY SMILE
HELLO KITTY SMILE stands as another captivating theme park, offering a magical encounter with the beloved Hello Kitty. The facility combines media art shows and galleries with delightful dining experiences. Hello Kitty dressed as a princess of “Palace of Dragon Princess” and marine fish in projection mappings guide you in eight areas of “the Palace”. A standout feature is the photo-op spot encircled by numerous Hello Kitty stuffed animals. The on-site restaurant showcases a diverse culinary selection, featuring everything from authentic Chinese cuisine to flavorful one-pot courses. Furthermore, visitors have a wonderful opportunity for a meet-and-greet with Hello Kitty herself at one of “the Palace” areas and restaurant.
| 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
If you plan to explore the above Hello Kitty-themed attractions over a day and find the need for an overnight stay on Awaji Island, consider GRAND CHARIOT. The glamping facility also offers a perfect conclusion to your Hello Kitty trip from Tokyo with its specially-themed Hello Kitty room.
© 2024 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. L640006
Try Dishes You Can Only Enjoy on Awaji Island
miele
For those seeking a trendy spot, miele on the west coast of Awaji is a must-visit. Here, you can savor unique dishes while enjoying breathtaking ocean views. One standout dish is the shirasu pizza (whitebait pizza), popular among visitors. The staff will continuously pour shirasu onto your pizza until you signal them to stop, ensuring you relish a generous serving of this delightful ingredient.
Reflecting its meaning in Italian, miele, which translates to honey, the restaurant has gained acclaim for its delectable honey-themed dishes and desserts. Depending on the season, miele also offers dessert pizzas, providing an opportunity to try unique creations exclusive to Awaji Island, such as strawberry pizza or even Matcha Pizza!
Click here to read our experience visiting miele to try the dessert pizza.
| 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
Aman no Shokutaku
Aman no Shokutaku is a unique Japanese culinary gem on Awaji Island. Here, you are invited to eat the true essence of Japan’s national delicacies, carefully curated from the local ingredients of Awaji Island’s land and sea, passed down through generations. Renowned as “pirate cuisine”, this unique culinary experience is exclusive to Awaji Island, making it a must-try when exploring the island and indulging in its rich food culture.
Click here to learn more about Aman no Shokutaku.
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 |
Click here for details of Aman no Shokutaku
These two restaurants offer unique culinary experiences on Awaji Island, yet the culinary delights extend far beyond. Many enthusiasts travel from afar specifically to savor the local cuisine, making it an enticing reason for you to consider exploring the culinary wonders of Awaji Island as well!
Closing
There are numerous overnight trips from Tokyo catering to various interests, spanning from anime and nature to cuisine. Awaji Island emerges as an ideal destination, offering a diverse range of experiences for you to enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of anime, a nature enthusiast, or a food lover, Awaji Island has something special to offer. If you find yourself in Tokyo or are already there, looking for a captivating location to explore, consider making your way to Awaji Island.
