Do you want to fly halfway around the world and dine on… hamburgers and french fries? For a growing number of the jet-set global elite of frequent travelers, the answer is “no.” More and more, we yearn for a different world, a transformative experience that will open our eyes to new perspectives and leave us with experiences that enrich us physically, mentally, even spiritually. Thus, many now seek travel that seamlessly blends luxury with authentic local culture. Awaji Island emerges as one of the best destinations for such travelers. In this article, we delve into the exquisite allure of this jewel in the Seto Sea, a rare locale where regional traditions are the perfect pairing for 5-star service.
Table of Contents
Luxury Travel and Regional Reality
Luxury travel goes beyond just visiting places, encompassing exclusivity, comfort, and personalized experiences. Those seeking something extraordinary find joy in the finer things, from top-class stays to tailored plans, the kind of getaway where every detail fits together for an outstanding, unforgettable time.
While the heart of luxury travel may be sophistication and extravagance, modern travelers seek more than just 5-star accommodations and deluxe amenities. There is an inherent desire to engage with the local culture, a quest for cultural enlightenment.
Cuisine always plays a pivotal role, where discerning palates can enjoy immersion into local gastronomic traditions. Furthermore, the desire for indigenous experiences extends to interactions with local culture including participation in traditional events, workshops, and other experiences that deepen our understanding of the host culture and society.
Awaji Island in the Seto Inland Sea of Japan, is renowned for some of Japan’s finest dining and accommodations. Simultaneously, Awaji Island’s historical significance as the birthplace of Japan adds a layer of depth to the experience. This dual identity makes Awaji Island an ideal choice for travelers in 2024 looking to enjoy both luxury and local charm.
First Class Gourmet and Local Ingredients on Awaji Island
Awaji Island, particularly along its west coast, boasts a collection of luxurious restaurants, each distinguished by its own unique theme. While these establishments may vary in style, they share a common thread, commitment to utilizing the exceptional local ingredients sourced from Awaji Island. The island takes immense pride in its high-quality ingredients that for centuries were the exclusive purveyors to the Imperial palace.
When it comes to Japanese cuisine, we often think of Sushi, Sashimi, and Tempura, available everywhere in Japan. Aonoya on Awaji Island stands out by focusing only on the best ingredients, bringing out the best in these classic dishes. It is all about savoring the freshest and most authentic flavors. Awaji Island’s unique seasonal ingredients elevate the dining experience, including the renowned pufferfish and Conger Eel.
Aonoya offers a luxurious setting for a delightful meal with its elegant design and furnishings. In the evening, guests enjoy the famous sunset, accompanied by live jazz and a captivating projection mapping show, for an unforgettable evening that unites luxury with Awaji’s local treasures.
| 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
For another side to regional cuisine, Aman no Shokutaku is a must. Taste the essence of Japan’s national delicacies crafted with care from the abundant ingredients sourced from Awaji Island’s land and sea. It specializes in Pirate cuisine, a traditional cooking style passed down for millennia on Awaji Island. The perfect blend of luxurious design, a rich culinary heritage passed down through generations, and the use of local ingredients makes this restaurant ideal for a high class locavore experience.
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
Nature and luxury on Awaji Island
Travelers can also get a sense of local living through the natural surroundings. Zenbo Seinei is the perfect setting to experience wellness among the island’s stunning environment. Situated on a mountain ridge with breathtaking 360-degree views, this Zen retreat invites guests to participate in activities centered around meditation amidst the beautiful, serene nature of Awaji.
| 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 stands as another destination that offers local charm wrapped in the arms of a 5-star facility. This award-winning glamping ground has exquisite furniture, design, and a unique concept. Beyond its majestic setting, Grand Chariot offers a unique point of view with its stunning panorama of the island and sea, the iconic Akashi Bridge, and also full-course meals combining local ingredients like the renowned Uni (sea urchin) and Awaji Beef. This combination ensures that travelers can enjoy both great comfort and service while savoring the best of the region.
| 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 |
Japan’s Spiritual Heritage and Mythology on Awaji Island
For an enriching experience of ancient culture, consider a visit to Izanagi Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest and most revered shrines. According to ancient texts, this sacred site is where the male and female deities, Izanagi and Izanami, played a crucial role in Japan’s creation. As one of the earliest Shinto shrines, Izanagi Shrine offers a profound connection to Japan’s spiritual heritage and mythology, providing a glimpse into the nation’s ancient traditions.
Closing
The growing trend in travel extends beyond luxury to a desire for authenticity. Travelers seek genuine local experiences, from savoring local cuisine to immersing themselves in the culture and scenery. Awaji Island uniquely combines both luxury and authenticity, offering a destination where visitors can indulge in upscale experiences while still enjoying the rich tapestry of local life.
