Since ancient times in Japan, Awaji Island has been renowned as the “land of food”, with its abundance of ingredients often presented to the imperial family and court. We are excited to introduce unique recommended spots related to this. Here, you can savor the seafood and mountain delicacies cultivated in this blessed environment, enjoying the rich food culture that has flourished on the island for centuries.
Table of Contents
Miketsukuni The Land of Food
Awaji Island, known as “Miketsukuni” or the “Land of Food,” holds a storied past as a provider of culinary bestowed upon the Imperial Court. With a self-sufficiency rate exceeding 100% in food production, the island takes immense pride in its agricultural heritage. The flourishing fishing industry further contributes to its abundance of fresh seafood. Consequently, Awaji Island attracts numerous visitors eager to savor its exquisite dining offerings.
Experience Fishing and Savor Fresh Seafood from Awaji Island
This is one unique way to explore the charm of Awaji Island as the land of food. At Ikuha Fishing Port on Awaji Island, you can go on a thrilling fishing adventure where you can reel in seasonal catches such as wild red sea bream, firm Akashi octopus, and cutlassfish. Choose from morning or afternoon departure plans and enjoy boat fishing, a popular activity off the coast of Awaji Island offering various techniques.
One unique experience you do not want to miss is “whitebait fishing”, considered a specialty of Awaji Island. Join a fishing boat and partake in a fishing activity, where two boats drag the net to haul in the catch. Feel the sea, witness the strength of the fishermen, and learn firsthand how the fish you eat is delivered to your plate.
After the excursion, enjoy the freshly caught whitebait, known for its transparent and taut texture, showcasing its remarkable freshness. Return to the dock and enjoy a bowl of whitebait or other delicacies made from your catch.
Ocean Terrace: Rare Awaji Beef Only Shipped 150 Each Year
Awaji Island is known for its prized “Awaji Beef”, originally from Tajima beef, a premier brand in Japan. This exceptional meat has a high proportion of lean meat, even among top-quality Japanese beef, and is distinguished by its well-balanced marbling. With only around 150 head of cattle shipped annually, this truly embodies the status of Awaji Island as the land of food. It is a rare delicacy and a must-try for visitors to Awaji Island.
Additionally, Awaji Island is popular for its breathtaking sunsets, listed among Japan’s top 100. Ocean Terrace is a hidden gem where diners can enjoy a meal while relishing the stunning views exclusive to Awaji Island. Experience self-roast style, grilling your steak to perfection on a custom lava stone grill, all while enjoying the resort-like ambiance of the restaurant.
| 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.tablecheck.com/en/shops/craftcircus-oceanterrace/reserve |
| 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
Marché Selling Awaji Island Local Vegetables and Specialties
Are you interested in vegetables from Awaji Island, which is known as the land of food? This renovated former elementary school on Awaji Island now houses a multifunctional complex featuring a restaurant and souvenir shop. Located within is Nojima Marche, a charming farmers’ market offering a diverse array of fresh vegetables harvested each morning.
Having approximately 250 products, including local specialties and fresh foods, Nojima Marché takes pride in sourcing some vegetables directly from carefully selected local farmers, ensuring freshness. The interior retains traces of its elementary school roots, exuding a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere.
Aman no Shokutaku: Japanese Food Delicacies on Awaji Island
Aman no Shokutaku is a restaurant featuring the bounties of both sea and mountain, cherished and passed down by the Ama – the revered people of the sea. As documented in the Kojiki, Japan’s oldest historical record, Awaji Island was the very first island inhabited by the Ama. Renowned for their mastery of metal craftsmanship, salt production, and unparalleled navigational skills, they ushered in an era of prosperity that continues to resonate today.
At Aman no Shokutaku, this rich heritage is celebrated by serving Japanese gourmet delicacies inspired by the concept of Awaji Island as the “Land of Food”. The restaurant has two floors, each offering a unique dining experience.
On the first floor is Utage, a Japanese restaurant serving pirate-themed cuisine. Drumbeats, lanterns, and single-large trees serving as tables set the stage for a lavish dining affair. Upstairs, Sajiki awaits, offering an elevated dining experience featuring teppanyaki and sukiyaki. Try the sumptuous meal showcasing the renowned quality of Awaji beef.
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
Closing
Here are some of the culinary experiences you can enjoy on Awaji Island, known as the “Land of Food”. Explore a variety of activities focused on learning about locally grown vegetables and freshly caught seafood. Additionally, enjoy the dining experiences at restaurants serving delectable delicacies sourced from Awaji Island’s rich bounty. If you’re intrigued by these culinary adventures, we invite you to come and experience the flavors of Awaji Island firsthand!
