Chinese New Year is a time for getting together with your loved ones and wishing for health, prosperity and good luck for you and your family. What would be a better way to spend a part of Chinese New Year than being on the island located at 135 degrees east longitude (Japan Standard Time Meridian)? The spots on 135 degree east longitude have been considered as power spots where you can cleanse your spirit, feel power and energy of the universe and gain something spiritual for yourself. Awaji Island is full of sanctuaries and power spots, perfect for celebrating Chinese New Year in Japan.
Table of Contents
- The Oldest Shrine in Japan, Izanagi-Jingu on Awaji Island
- Dine and Stay in a Majestic Nature at GRAND CHARIOT on Awaji Island
- Cleanse Yourself with Healthy and Beautiful Japanese Cuisine at SEIKAIHA Aonoya on Awaji Island
- Immerse Yourself in the World of Water Temple, Designed by Tadao Ando on Awaji Island
- Closing
The Oldest Shrine in Japan, Izanagi-Jingu on Awaji Island
Awaji Island is the birthplace of Japan according to the legend in the oldest historical records in Japan called Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. In this Japan’s creation myth, the god Izanagi and goddess Izanami were tasked with the creation of the land. The first land created by them is said to be Awaji Island.
Izanagi-Jingu Shrine is the legendary site of the dwelling of the god Izanagi and receive many worshippers for its solemn divinity. At the site of the shrine, a must-visit spot is the “Husband and Wife Tree”. It is one tree but it started as two separate stumps.
While you are at the shrine, don’t forget to pick an “omikuji” (a fortune slip) to foresee your upcoming year You can also purchase an “omamori” (good luck charm) to keep you safe, healthy or whatever you wish.
Dine and Stay in a Majestic Nature at GRAND CHARIOT on Awaji Island
GRAND CHARIOT Hokutoshichisei 135° is a luxurious glamping facility situated up on a hill amidst beautiful nature in Hyogo Prefectural Awaji Island Park. It was awarded the prestigious “Platinum Hotels Top Quality Inn” award by Rakuten Travel.
Each guest room is shaped like a separate cocoon. It allows guests to marvel at the starry skies through a skylight positioned more than 5 meters above, creating a natural planetarium-like experience. In the morning, guests are greeted by the gentle glow of natural dawn light, bathing the rooms in a serene ambiance. Accommodations include a breakfast and dinner.
You are welcomed to just try dining at the restaurant on the site. The cuisine is supervised by Haruyuki Yamashita, a well-known chef who operates many restaurants in Japan and overseas. He uses locally harvested ingredients, taking advantage of fresh and high quality Awaji Island’s local produce, beef and seafood. You will be amazed with exquisite cuisine and definitely understand why Awaji Island was historically called “Miketsukuni” (land of royal provisions) and provided seafood and produce to the imperial court at ancient times.
| 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 |
Cleanse Yourself with Healthy and Beautiful Japanese Cuisine at SEIKAIHA Aonoya on Awaji Island
SEIKAIHA Aonoya is a Japanese restaurant specializing in sushi and tempura, located at an ocean front. All the seats are tiered like a theater enabling every guest to enjoy a beautiful ocean view. It also has an open kitchen at the bottom of the restaurant where you can see how chef is busy preparing your orders.
”Washoku, Japanese traditional food culture” is designated as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. The Japanese way of honoring nature, using seasonal ingredients, using many kinds of food and making the most of their best qualities, having balanced nutrition, and directly connecting food to seasonal/yearly festivities was recognized by UNESCO and led to its designation.
Savor Japanese delicacies of the winter season at their best. A menu item called Aonoya Gozen gives you various ingredients in many different styles including sushi and tempura, letting you enjoy Japanese cuisine fully. Some of the dishes come in a wooden box which are so beautiful to look at. The price is 6,500 yen (including tax) available at lunch and dinner.
For those who would like to try a famous Awaji Island delicacy in winter, torafugu (blowfish), Awaji Island 3-year Torafugu Gozen is offered at 13,500 yen (including tax) at lunch and dinner. The item includes torafugu in various cooking styles: sashimi, sushi, karaage (fried) and hot pot.
*Available till February 28
*Reservations are required by 7:00 p.m. three days in advance.
| 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
Immerse Yourself in the World of Water Temple, Designed by Tadao Ando on Awaji Island
The color red is said to drive away evil spirits in Japan. During Chinese New Year, a red envelope with money is given to children, family members and loved ones, wishing for good luck for a new year. The beautiful and large vermilion latticework at the Water Temple (Honpukuji Temple Mizumido) is so perfect to visit during Chinese New Year.
Honpukuji Temple, a Buddhist sanctuary, built in the Heian period (794~1185) is located in Awaji City on Awaji Island. The Water Temple (“Mizumido”), newly built in 1991 as the main hall for Honpukuji Temple, was designed by the world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, also famous for the landmark structure, Awaji Yumebutai on Awaji Island. The design of this temple defies expectations, and makes astounding use of the exposed concrete construction which has become an trademark of Mr. Ando. The roof of the Water Temple is a large reflecting pond with lotus in June and water lilies in summer. Inside the Water temple, the room is filled with natural light creating a divine atmosphere, and you will find the large vermilion latticework beloved worldwide as an amazingly unique photo spot. The harmony of Heian era design and modern architecture in the tranquility of this sacred site is deeply moving.
Closing
Awaji Island, a birthplace of Japan, is filled with spiritual spots that help you feel anew and energetic both physically and spiritually, ready for a new year. Only one hour from Osaka and 30 minutes from Kobe by car or public transportation, Awaji Island is a hidden gem, not crowded like other major destinations and an ideal destination for a day trip or an overnight trip.
