Do you know Awaji Island? Situated amid the breathtaking landscapes of the Seto Inland Sea, Awaji Island is beloved for fantastic scenery, distinctive cuisine, and unique attractions. If you’re wondering whether Awaji Island is worth visiting, it offers everything from a theme park and entertainment facility featuring Japanese pop culture icons like Hello Kitty and Godzilla to the tranquility of upscale wellness resorts. It is one of the best places to visit near Osaka for a weekend getaway with friends or family. In this article, we explore a 2-day Awaji Island itinerary for families or friends to immerse themselves in the wonders of Awaji Island.
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Reaching Awaji Island
Getting to Awaji Island is easy, whether you drive, fly, or take the bullet train. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes from Kobe and one hour from Osaka by bus, making it a popular weekend trip from Osaka and Kobe.
Our initial destination is HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX. Starting from Kobe Sannomiya Station, simply board the “Kita Awaji Nishi Kaigan Line” (North Awaji West Coast Bus) for direct transport to Seikaiha. From there, a brief walk will take you to the theater situated on the hill, known as HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX.
Exploring the attractions along the West Coast is convenient thanks to the complimentary shuttle bus that operates throughout the resort area. This makes it easy to explore some of the best attractions on Awaji Island without driving. With a little luck, you might find yourself on a bus decorated with your favorite character!
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM: Meet the Iconic Hello Kitty
The HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX proudly holds the Guinness World Records™ for having the “largest roof in the shape of a brand character.” Stepping into this theater restaurant means immersing yourself in the creative world of Hello Kitty. Guests can enjoy a delightful lunch while being serenaded by the lively tunes of the Hello Kitty Jazz Band Show. The lunch menu features photogenic Hello Kitty-themed dishes as cute as they are delicious. What sets the menu apart is the inclusion of healthy vegan dishes, thoughtfully crafted by innovative chefs using locally sourced ingredients.
The highlight of the show is the meet-and-greet with Hello Kitty herself! After the performance, you’ll have the chance to step onto the stage and pose for a memorable photo with Hello Kitty.
If you and your family or friends are passionate Hello Kitty enthusiasts or simply appreciate all things adorable and unique, this location is an absolute must-visit. To ensure you catch the movie at the beginning of the lunchtime performance, plan to arrive before 12:10 PM. The door opens at 11:00 AM.
Right alongside the HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX is the HELLO KITTY APPLE HOUSE.
The distinctive Hello Kitty-shaped roof of the theater is visible exclusively from the Apple House observation deck. Immerse yourselves in a 360° projection mapping experience inside Hello Kitty’s dream world at the heart of the giant apple. These experiences promise not only a delightful time but also a unique and memorable adventure for you and your friends. HELLO KITTY APPLE HOUSE holds a Guinness World Records™ title for the “Largest Building in the Shape of an Apple.” It’s one of the most unique photo spots on Awaji Island.
| 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. A free shuttle bus is available. |
| 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://awaji-resort.com/hellokittyshowbox/ |
| Review | https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1022838-d17793182-Reviews-Hello_Kitty_Show_Box-Awaji_Awaji_shima_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html |
| Reservations | https://www.tablecheck.com/en/shops/hellokittyshowbox/reserve |
Click here for details of HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Explore The World of Hello Kitty at HELLO KITTY SMILE
HELLO KITTY SMILE is conveniently located just a short ride away from HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX thanks to the complimentary shuttle bus service. This enchanting attraction seamlessly blends media art, a diverse range of dining options, and stunning sea views. Among the culinary offerings are authentic Chinese cuisine, flavorful hot pot courses, and dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients from Awaji Island.
The focal point of HELLO KITTY SMILE is a mesmerizing display inspired by the legendary Palace of the Dragon Princess from the Japanese folktale Urashima Taro. Let Hello Kitty guide you through a captivating projection mapping show before exploring interactive exhibits and photogenic spaces.
The adorable entertainment, delicious cuisine, and variety of Hello Kitty-themed attractions make this destination ideal for family and friends. The interactive experiences—from engaging meet-and-greets by Hello Kitty herself to touch-sensitive projection mapping—make every visit memorable. For anyone looking for fun things to do on Awaji Island with family and friends, HELLO KITTY SMILE is a great stop.
| 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. A free shuttle bus is available. |
| 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
6:00 PM~: Breathtaking Private Villa Experience at GRAND CHARIOT
Spending time with family and friends in a distinctive environment is always a joyous experience. Indulge in a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life together at GRAND CHARIOT Hokutoshichisei 135°, a luxurious hotel nestled on Awaji Island.
This extraordinary retreat features cocoon-shaped private villas designed to provide a serene and rejuvenating stay on Awaji Island. Each villa includes skylights that welcome the gentle morning sunlight, creating a harmonious connection with nature. The warm wooden interiors and cypress bath complete the relaxing atmosphere. Some villas, created in collaboration with popular characters such as Hello Kitty, NARUTO, and the Godzilla, offer a one-of-a-kind stay that immerses you in the world of each character.
GRAND CHARIOT is also celebrated for its cuisine, crafted from high-quality ingredients sourced from Awaji Island. If you’re wondering where to stay on Awaji Island, this is one of the island’s most memorable accommodation experiences.
| 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 |
Click here for details of GRAND CHARIOT
10:00 AM~: Visit Nijigen no Mori, Where Anime Becomes Reality
After a rejuvenating night and breakfast at GRAND CHARIOT, begin Day 2 with the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service to Nijigen no Mori, just a few minutes away.
If you and your family or friends enjoy series like NARUTO, Godzilla, Dragon Quest, or Crayon Shinchan, Nijigen no Mori offers the chance to step into those worlds together. As one of the most popular anime theme parks in Japan, it combines outdoor adventures, interactive missions, and beloved characters in a beautiful natural setting.
Immerse yourself in the incredible world of Japanese anime, games and pop culture at Nijigen no Mori. This is one of the top things to do on Awaji Island and a must-visit attraction for anime fans visiting Japan. The park features immersive experiences inspired by Naruto & Boruto, Dragon Quest, Godzilla, Crayon Shinchan, and seasonal limited-time events.
NARUTO & BORUTO SHINOBI-ZATO
The globally acclaimed series Naruto has captivated fans worldwide. At Nijigen no Mori, step into this beloved universe through an immersive adventure attraction featuring a 3D maze, puzzles, rallies, and ninja missions. If you, your family or your friends love anime, ninjas, or adventure games, this experience should not be missed.
Dragon Quest Island
Dragon Quest is one of Japan’s most iconic RPG series. On Awaji Island, you can step into its fantasy world by exploring towns, interacting with characters, discovering treasure chests, and battling monsters. It’s an ideal activity for those who enjoy solving challenges together and discovering new adventures.
The Anime Park is Enormous!
These attractions are just a glimpse of everything Nijigen no Mori has to offer. Crayon Shinchan Adventure Park and Godzilla Interception Operation also provide exciting experiences including ziplines. If you’re planning what to do on Awaji Island, it’s worth setting aside an entire day for Nijigen no Mori, as there’s far more to explore than most visitors expect.
| 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
Returning from Nijigen no Mori to Kobe is simple—just board the same West Coast Bus (“Kita Awaji Nishi Kaigan Line”) for a convenient journey back to Sannomiya Station.
Closing
This carefully curated 2-day Awaji Island itinerary only scratches the surface of everything the island has to offer. From immersive anime attractions and oceanfront dining to luxury accommodations and spectacular scenery, Awaji Island is one of the best weekend destinations near Osaka. Whether it’s your first time visiting Awaji Island or you’re returning to discover more, you’ll find unforgettable experiences to share with family and friends.
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