Awaji Island: Top 12 Things to Do and Best Places to Eat

Awaji Island is a vibrant natural resort in western Japan, renowned for its abundance of delicious ingredients, amusement parks, picturesque flower hills, and its 500-year traditional puppet theater.

Awaji is connected to Japan's main island through Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the second longest suspension bridge in the world, providing direct access to Kobe Bay. At the same time, it's separated from the Shikoku region by the Naruto Strait, famous for its impressive Naruto Whirlpools.

12 Best Things to Do on Awaji Island

1. Nijigen no Mori: Godzilla, Dragon Quest Island, and More
2. Hello Kitty Smile and Hello Kitty Apple House
3. Awaji Farm Park England Hill
4. Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Awajishima Terrace
5. Naruto Whirlpools
6. Awaji Puppet Theater
7. Onaruto Bridge Memorial Hall and Onion Hill
8. Awaji Hanasajiki Park
9. Awaji Island National Akashi Kaikyo Park
10. Awaji Highway Oasis
11. Awaji Yumebutai
12. Dining in Awaji
How to Get to Awaji Island

1. Nijigen no Mori: Godzilla, Dragon Quest Island, and More

^{Photo courtesy of Klook}Nijigen no Mori is an amusement park where you can experience the world of Japanese anime through your five senses while spending time outdoors.

This park is home to the largest Godzilla attraction in Japan! Godzilla Interception Operation Awaji offers a thrilling experience where guests can confront the king of monsters directly, ziplining 162 meters into the depths of its smoldering mouth.

Interactive shooting games and limited-edition Godzilla products await visitors at the museum's shop.

Picture courtesy of Klook

There are many other areas within Nijigen no Mori, each themed around a different anime or movie. Popular attractions include the NARUTO & BORUTO Park and a Demon Slayer installation, which allow visitors to immerse themselves in their favorite anime worlds and face the challenges of a hero firsthand!

Picture courtesy of Klook

At the breathtaking Dragon Quest Island: Ancient Demons and Guided Adventurers, prepare to confront monsters and champion the island's peace.

Visitors can engage with their beloved characters and creatures from the series in this unparalleled real-life field RPG experience!

Delving into the forest, castle town, and the Demon King's fortress, visitors are urged to undertake personalized quests and daring adventures. With a range of ticket options, quests, and nearby accommodations available, those opting for set and premium tickets stand to receive exclusive special goods as part of their experience!

Park visitors can also meet beloved characters and enjoy stays in Naruto, Monster Hunter, and Hello Kitty-themed rooms at the upscale hotel Grand Chariot Hokutoshichisei 135°.

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2. Hello Kitty Smile and Hello Kitty Apple House

Picture courtesy of Klook

A Hello Kitty paradise awaits on Awaji Island with three delightful venues showcasing everyone's favorite Sanrio character, Hello Kitty!

Hello Kitty Smile features an aquatic-themed Hello Kitty Restaurant along with a digital artwork exhibition to brighten your day.

Adding to the island's joyous atmosphere, Awaji Hello Kitty Apple Land and Hello Kitty Show Box are situated nearby, enchanting visitors with the charm of this beloved character.

Picture courtesy of PR Times

Among these attractions is the impressive HELLO KITTY APPLE HOUSE, the largest of its kind in the world, offering a blend of shopping, art, delectable dishes, and interactive character experiences for fans.

This venue serves as a perfect setting to capture memorable moments with loved ones and create lasting memories!

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3. Awaji Farm Park England Hill

Picture courtesy of Klook

Awaji Farm Park England Hill is the ideal destination for a memorable family outing. This park offers a range of entertaining activities such as horse riding, go-karts, and leisurely rides on swan boats. Visitors can indulge in Awaji's local cuisine and sample its iconic vegetables, historically used in dishes served to the imperial family.

Each year, the land is adorned with seasonal blooms, from the tranquil beauty of spring's Nemophila flowers to the vibrant hues of summer sunflowers. Charming animals including rabbits, koalas, capybaras, owls, and freely roaming sheep eagerly welcome guests.

For children, engaging in cooking classes and hand-picking fresh seasonal fruits add to the allure of this picturesque setting.

4. Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Awajishima Terrace

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Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is one of the longest and tallest suspension bridges globally, spanning 3,911 meters across the ocean to link Hyogo's islands with mainland Japan. Surrounded by picturesque beauty, the bridge features a stylish terrace where visitors can relax and revel in the magnificent views it offers.

Atop the hillside, fields of seasonal flowers paint a colorful picture, capturing the essence of the coastal breeze. Meanwhile, below at the terrace cafe, delectable soft pancakes are freshly prepared.

Picture courtesy of Klook

An iconic photo spot, the Stairway of Happiness, beckons visitors to capture memorable moments and take a well-deserved break. This tour not only showcases the local area but also includes an all-you-can-eat buffet offering a variety of 50 different dishes for guests to enjoy.

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5. Naruto Whirlpools

The Naruto Whirlpools are undeniably one of the most striking and surreal phenomena in Japan! These swirling rapids captivate viewers, visible from above on the Onaruto Bridge, while adventurous sightseeing boats navigate the turbulent waters to provide a close-up experience of the powerful currents.

The Naruto Strait, located between Awaji and Tokushima, is known for having the swiftest ocean currents in Japan. These natural forces give rise to this remarkable spectacle.

A great way to experience the Naruto Whirlpools is by taking a day tour from Osaka. This tour includes a visit to the Awa Odori Kaikan in Tokushima Prefecture, where you can attend a performance of Awa Odori, a traditional dance style famously featured at Tokushima's vibrant Awa Odori Festival.

6. Awaji Puppet Theater

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The Awaji Puppet Theatre showcases the region's exceptional craftsmanship, rooted in the island's rich history. Originating on Awaji, various puppet troupes from the 17th to the 20th century traveled extensively across Japan, presenting captivating plays during the Edo period (1603-1868).

Funded by the feudal lord of Tokushima, these performances gained immense popularity. However, with the advent of new forms of entertainment in the Meiji era (1868-1912) and the challenges of World War II, the art faced potential extinction.

Photo by Pixta

Despite enduring numerous crises, the Awaji puppet theater persevered and was recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.

Visitors can watch daily performances at the Awaji Puppet Theatre on the island. The local community is ensuring that the legacy of this art form is passed down through generations.

Enjoying a performance by Yoshida Denjiro-za, one of Awaji's largest puppet troupes, is a chance to experience a piece of the island's cultural heritage.

Awaji Puppet Theatre official website: https://awajiningyoza.com/en/news/

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7. Uzuno Oka Onaruto Bridge Memorial Hall and Onion Hill

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Constructed to commemorate the achievement of the Onaruto Bridge, the museum perched atop a hill offers stunning panoramic views of the island below.

Entertaining and informative installations await visitors, ranging from a science center brimming with educational resources to a whimsical interior adorned with delightful onion-themed attractions. The Whirlpool Science Center specifically features captivating digital 3D exhibits showcasing the mesmerizing Naruto Whirlpools, a natural wonder of the island.

Guests can delve into the scientific intricacies of the rapids through engaging 3D videos and displays. Throughout the museum, quirky onion-inspired elements such as neon onion art murals, pianos, and claw machines add a touch of amusement.

Visitors can also browse Awaji-themed souvenirs at the shop and savor delectable cuisine at the observation deck restaurant, including specialties like the Awajishima Burger.

Photo by Pixta

A colossal onion-shaped object overlooks the island from Onion Hill, offering a perfect spot to enjoy 360-degree breathtaking views of Awaji.

Don't miss the chance to take a selfie with this iconic onion and embark on a quest to discover other onion-themed installations scattered across the town, such as the onion benches located near the museum and the renowned Onaruto Bridge.

8. Awaji Hanasajiki Park

Known as the island of flowers, Awaji lives up to its reputation by offering numerous opportunities to immerse oneself in seasonal blooms and natural beauty throughout the year.

Awaji Hanasajiki Park stands out for its spectacular display of vibrant multicolored flowers that blanket the hills along Awaji's coastline, covering a sprawling 15-hectare expanse of land.

Positioned approximately 298 meters above sea level, visitors at the park's observation deck can admire panoramic views extending as far as Osaka Bay, Kansai International Airport, and the iconic Akashi Kaikyo Bridge.

For more information on various flower-filled attractions and seasonal highlights such as cherry blossom-lined riversides and temples, explore the diverse floral landscapes of Awaji Island.

Awaji Hanasajiki Park official website: https://awajihanasajiki.jp/ (Japanese)

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9. Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park

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Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park is an expansive park teeming with vibrant, blooming flowers stretching along the seafront of the island's eastern coast.

Situated close to Nijigen no Mori, this park offers an ideal retreat for visitors exploring theme parks, providing a chance to revel in Awaji's stunning floral landscapes, intricate sculptures, and mesmerizing rainbow-hued flowerbeds.

In addition to the park's floral wonders, visitors can delight in a range of attractions, including serene swan boat lakes, diverse animal encounters, and captivating ocean vistas.

10. Awaji Highway Oasis

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Located within the Hyogo Prefectural Awaji Island Park, the rest and service area Awaji Highway Oasis serves as the gateway to Awaji Island.

In addition to shops and restaurants that allow visitors to savor seasonal local flavors, Awaji Highway Oasis offers stunning views of flowers and greenery. More than just a rest stop, it is a facility where you can spend the entire day playing and enjoying.

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Awaji Highway Oasis also offers great views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and the large Ferris Wheel of Awaji. The facility is also famous for its impressive 9-meter-tall Christmas tree, which is displayed in the Oasis Hall 1F atrium every year from late November until December 25.

Awaji Highway Oasis official website: http://www.awajishimahighwayoasis.com/ (Japanese)

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11. Awaji Yumebutai

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Awaji Yumebutai stands as an artistic sanctuary, seamlessly blending artwork, galleries, flowers, and breathtaking architecture to form a cohesive masterpiece. Crafted by the renowned architect Tadao Ando, Yumebutai encompasses a collection of buildings and installations, including the intriguing Hundred-Step Garden.

Kiseki No Hoshi BOTANICAL MUSEUM. Photo by Pixta

This realm harmoniously intertwines concrete structures with the allure of nature, featuring a cascading array of one hundred flower beds adorning the hillside. Noteworthy are the one million recycled scallop shells that pave the way for beautiful water fountains and inviting courtyards within the area.

Connected to the Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park, Yumebutai also houses a conference center and hotel, rendering it an ideal addition to any traveler's Awaji itinerary.

12. Dining in Awaji

Photo from Awaji Flower Expo 2021: Enjoy Art, Nature, and Splendid Flowers

Awaji Island has a storied past as a key source of fresh produce for the imperial palace, ingrained with a rich culinary history.

Renowned for its onions with a robust flavor, balanced sugar content, and delightful aroma, it comes as no surprise that the island is replete with an array of exceptional food options to tantalize visitors' taste buds.

Photo from Awaji Flower Expo 2021: Enjoy Art, Nature, and Splendid Flowers
When visiting Awaji Island, indulging in the delicious Awajishima Burger is a culinary experience not to be missed!

Head to Awajishima Onion Kitchen for their spectacular rendition of this burger, featuring a delectable combination of sweet and spicy Awaji beef coated with a flavorful tomato-rich sauce and topped with deep-fried onion cutlets.

To cap off a day packed with enjoyment, consider treating yourself to delightful desserts such as fluffy chiffon cakes from the esteemed cafe Fortune and scrumptious ice cream crafted by G.ELM, a long-standing 24-year-old establishment.

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How to Get to Awaji Island

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To reach Awaji Island from Kansai Airport, travelers can embark on a train journey to Osaka Station, followed by a connecting train ride to JR Sannomiya Station in Kobe.

Upon arrival at Sannomiya station, visitors can opt for either a highway bus or car rental to access Awaji. The trip typically spans around 50 minutes from Sannomiya Station to Awaji Yumebutai.

Alternatively, a ferry service operates from Akashi Port with a swift 13-minute voyage to Awaji Island's port. This option is ideal for individuals interested in cycling on the island. The ferry fare for adults is 500 yen, 250 yen for children, with an additional 220 yen per bike.

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Enjoy Exploring Hyogo's Awaji Island!

Awaji Island serves as a convenient weekend getaway from Osaka, offering a perfect destination for a short trip.

Easily reachable from Osaka, visitors can enjoy leisurely cycling experiences around the island, immersing themselves in its small yet activity-packed charm.

Awaji is replete with opportunities to explore scenic nature year-round, ensuring that you'll discover ample fun and relaxation as you traverse the enchanting landscapes of the Seto Inland Sea.

Main image from Pixta