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Awaji Island (Awajishima): Your Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors
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Awaji Island, a charming destination located on the Seto Inland Sea, may not be as widely known as some of Japan's more famous locales, but it offers a unique and captivating experience. This is your travel guide to Awaji Island, also called as Awajishima.
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Awaji Island, located in the Seto Inland Sea in Hyogo Prefecture, is known for its rich history, delicious food, and beautiful nature. Just one hour from Osaka, it offers a perfect escape from the busy cities of the Kansai Region. We are here to introduce you to the beautiful spots on Awaji Island, including hotels, restaurants, events, theme parks, and much more. This account is operated mainly as a PR effort by Pasona Group.
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Table of Contents
- Where is Awaji Island (Awajishima)?
- The Island's Perfect-Year Round Weather
- Deep Relation to Japan's Culture and History
- Beautiful Nature and Stunning Views
- Japan's Finest Delicacies
- The Perfect Mix of Traditions and Modernity
- 5 Must-Visit Tourist Spots
- Access to Awaji Island
Where is Awaji Island (Awajishima)?
Awaji Island, situated in the Seto Inland Sea, is part of the Kansai region and lies between the larger islands of Honshu and Shikoku. Accessible via bridges from thees of Kobe and Naruto, it’s best reached by car. Buses also operate on the island.
From the Kobe area, the journey takes approximately 30 minutes by car, while it’s about an hour Osaka. Despite common misconceptions about accessibility, getting to Awaji Island is not as complicated as many believe.
The Island's Perfect-Year Round Weather
Awaji Island enjoys a mild climate thanks to its location in the Seto Inland Sea, with winters free from extreme cold. The island has an average annual temperature of around 15 degrees Celsius.
This favorable climate nurtures a rich environment and yields a bounty of fresh foods. This includes the renowned “Awaji Island Onions”, flavorful “Awaji Island Sea Bream”, and the rare “Awaji Beef”.
Deep Relation to Japan's Culture and History
Awaji Island is deeply related to Japan’s cultural and historical narrative. The Kojiki, revered as the ‘Record of Ancient Matters’ recounts the mythic tale of kuniumi, or the birth of the country.
It begins with the divine beings Izanagi and Izanami, who, standing upon the celestial bridge of heaven, stirred the primordial chaos with a sacred spear. From the droplets that fell, Onokoro Island emerged, serving as the cornerstone of Japan’s foundation.
Upon reaching the island, the divine couple united in sacred matrimony and conducted a ceremony, heralding the birth of Japan. Awaji Island stood as the first creation born from this ceremony, symbolizing the heritage of the country.
Awaji Island has various sites and remnants linked to this legendary tale. Izanagi Shrine stands out as a prominent example, revered as one of the oldest and most significant shrines in Japan.
The Naruto Whirlpools, located at the southern end of Awaji Island along the Naruto Straits, evoke images of the mythical swirls depicted in the ancient tales.
Beautiful Nature and Stunning Views
Awaji Island is a natural paradise providing impressive landscapes, from verdant mountains and lush forests to pristine beaches and vibrant flower fields.
The island's coastline features picturesque beaches and rugged cliffs offering breathtaking ocean views, especially during enchanting sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and pink.
The agricultural landscapes, with terraced fields and fruit orchards, paint the countryside in shades of green and gold, while the sight of farmers tending to their crops and seasonal harvests of citrus fruits and onions adds cultural richness.
Japan's Finest Delicacies
Awaji Island, also known as the “Land of Food”, has a rich history of supplying food to the imperial court. With a self-sufficiency rate of 100% in food production, the island has a strong agricultural legacy.
Its thriving fishing industry further contributes to its bounty, providing an abundance of fresh seafood. Consequently, Awaji Island attracts numerous visitors eager to try its exquisite dining experiences.
The Perfect Mix of Traditions and Modernity
Awaji Island is not just steeped in tradition, it’s also rapidly evolving through regional revitalization initiatives, particularly in its northern region. Harnessing the island’s ocean views and landscapes, a host of hotels, restaurants, and theme parks have emerged in recent years.
From anime attractions to Hello Kitty-themed experiences and innovative culinary offerings, Awaji Island caters to the tastes of the younger generation. Few destinations in Japan strike the balance between tradition and modernity as seamlessly as Awaji Island.
5 Must-Visit Tourist Spots
Now, let's introduce some of Awaji Island's popular spots that are loved by visitors from all over the world.
Nijigen no Mori
Nijigen no Mori is among the most popular attractions on Awaji Island, providing a unique experience where visitors can explore various anime franchises based on their interests.
©岸本斉史 スコット／集英社・テレビ東京・ぴえろ
Hotels near Nijigen no Mori
HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX
HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX is a one-of-a-kind restaurant that combines entertainment, dining, and shopping through its innovative theater-restaurant concept.
Hotels near HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX
HELLO KITTY SMILE
HELLO KITTY SMILE is a fascinating theme park that guarantees a captivating encounter with the beloved Hello Kitty. The facility integrates media art, dining experiences, and the breathtaking sea views of Awaji Island.
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Aman no Shokutaku
Our top recommendation is Aman no Shokutaku restaurant. The restaurant aims to preserve the essence of Japanese cuisine that has been passed down from generation to generation.
Hotels near Aman no Shokutaku
Aonoya
Located on the west coast of Awajishima, the renowned sushi restaurant "SEIKAIHA Aonoya" is acclaimed for its Japanese cuisine and excellent location.
Awaji Island (Awajishima) offers a wide range of attractions, from traditional sights to modern spots, theme parks to restaurants. For more information, please visit the article below!
Access to Awaji Island
Getting to Awaji Island may seem difficult, but it's actually very easy. It's easily accessible from major cities, about 30 minutes from Kobe and one hour from Osaka. Most routes start with a trip to Sannomiya (Kobe), where you can catch a direct bus to Awaji Island.
A convenient and fast option is the Kita-Awaji West Coast Line, which goes directly from Sannomiya to popular attractions on Awaji Island (Zenbou Seinei, Nijigen no Mori, Hello Kitty attractions, etc.).
There is another option. From Sannomiya, transfer at Awaji Interchange (IC), a popular transportation hub on Awaji Island, and take a free shuttle bus to popular facilities on Awaji Island!
If you see a bus with a design like the one below, you'll know it's a free shuttle bus.
Awaji Island, located in the Seto Inland Sea in Hyogo Prefecture, is known for its rich history, delicious food, and beautiful nature. Just one hour from Osaka, it offers a perfect escape from the busy cities of the Kansai Region. We are here to introduce you to the beautiful spots on Awaji Island, including hotels, restaurants, events, theme parks, and much more. This account is operated mainly as a PR effort by Pasona Group.
The contents on this page may partially contain automatic translation.
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