Awaji Island’s Auberge French Forest: Inspired by The Little Prince

Auberge French Forest: A Fairytale-like Culinary Oasis

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Nestled amidst the tranquil and picturesque landscapes of Awaji Island, Auberge French Forest is a whimsical oasis inspired by the beloved "The Little Prince" by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

This unique retreat offers accommodation and dining as well as an immersive journey into the heart of Awaji Island and a taste of Franco-Japanese cultural fusion.

At Auberge French Forest Restaurant and Stay, guests enjoy three distinct dining annexes — La Rose, Grand Baobab, and Prince Etoile. Each building has been meticulously designed to reflect elements from "The Little Prince," and is connected to the themes and motifs found within Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's masterpiece.

A stay at Auberge French Forest ensures that guests step into a world where literature meets luxury.

Relax in Cozy Guestrooms

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On the second floor of each annex, guests encounter beautifully appointed rooms, offering a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Off the coast of Kobe, Awaji Island replaces the morning rush with the rustle of leaves and the lull of the ocean.

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With no need to rush for trains or designate a driver, guests can unwind in comfort after dining in the restaurant downstairs. Each room is thoughtfully designed, drawing inspiration from the authentic charm of Auberges found in villages across France.

Dining at Auberge French Forest

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On the ground floor of each chalet, guests enjoy meals at Auberge French Forest's main attraction -- its three French fusion restaurants inspired by "The Little Prince".

Each venue is led by its own Head Chef, who imparts unique creativity and skill to showcase the finest local produce, seafood, and meat sourced from Awaji Island.

Wine lovers can enhance their dining experience with the extensive selection carefully curated to complement each guest and menu.

From the windows, enjoy a breathtaking view of the Awaji mountainside and the beautifully illuminated rose garden. Below, we introduce the features of each restaurant.

1. La Rose

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La Rose blends French culinary techniques with Japanese ingredients, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between the rose and the Little Prince. Dishes here are delicately prepared to reflect both cultures, offering a fusion dining experience unlike any other on the island.

La Rose is headed by Chef Ryotaro Murakami, who left Japan for France at the age of 18. He is a registered sommelier with experience cooking in Michelin-starred kitchens, such as the former Richard Coutanceau Restaurant.

2. Grand Baobab

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Chef Tsutomu Ohashi operates Grand Boabab. Inspired by the majestic baobab tree from "The Little Prince," this restaurant features a menu that blends French and Italian flavors.

Guests can savor seafood and meats sourced locally, paired with wines selected to enhance the dining experience.

Chef Ohashi's mother is also a chef, and through a lifetime in the kitchen, he has trained a keen eye for selecting ingredients.

3. Prince Etoile

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Celebrating the rich culinary traditions of France and the Basque Country, Prince Etoile offers a vibrant menu that reflects the diversity and depth of flavors found in both regions. From hearty stews to delicate pastries, every dish tells a story of cultural exchange and culinary mastery.

Kazumasa Ikeda is the head chef of Prince Etoile. He grew up locally, often visiting Awajimi as a child. Chef Ikeda graduated from a prestigious culinary school before working in the Rihgha Royal Hotel, where he studied a variety of European cuisine.

Additional Facilities

Beyond dining and accommodation, Auberge French Forest offers a range of facilities to enhance guests' experiences.

Gardens

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The beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the chalets pay homage to "The Little Prince." As in the beloved children's book, roses are a central motif. During the day, visitors can take leisurely strolls through these gardens to enjoy the fragrant blooms and serene ambiance.

At night, the gardens come alive with twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere reminiscent of the starry skies of the Little Prince's journey. These subtle references to the children’s tale evoke the playful and imaginative essence of the story.

Events and Wedding Venues

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Auberge French Forest is also a popular venue for weddings and special events. It offers picturesque settings and personalized services to ensure every occasion is memorable.

Guests can enjoy special experiences and catering services courtesy of the on-site kitchens. Inquire with the staff to plan your destination wedding or a personalized honeymoon.

Nearby Attractions

Guests of Auberge French Forest can enjoy nearby attractions on Awaji Island.

1. Awaji World Park Onokoro

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Awaji World Park Onokoro is a popular amusement park offering a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages. It features thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and seasonal events throughout the year.

The park is known for its scenic location with views of the surrounding Awaji Island landscapes.

Distance from Auberge French Forest: Approximately 10 kilometers (about 15 minutes by car)

2. Awaji Farm Park England Hill

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Awaji Farm Park England Hill transports visitors to an English countryside setting with picturesque gardens, including lavender fields and herb gardens.

It's an ideal destination for leisurely walks, enjoying the seasonal blooms, and taking in panoramic views of Awaji Island.

Distance from Auberge French Forest: Approximately 5 kilometers (about 10 minutes by car).

3. Awaji Yumebutai

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Designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, Awaji Yumebutai is an architectural marvel featuring gardens, waterfalls, and a botanical diversity that reflects Awaji Island's natural beauty.

This location offers tranquil surroundings for relaxation and exploration, showcasing the harmonious integration of architecture and nature.

Distance from Auberge French Forest: Approximately 20 kilometers (about 30 minutes by car)

4. Nijigen no Mori

Picture courtesy of Nijigen no Mori

Nijigen no Mori , also known as Nijigen Nomori Park, is a theme park dedicated to manga and anime. It features attractions and exhibitions based on popular series, providing a unique entertainment experience for fans of Japanese pop culture.

The park is located on the northern coast of Awaji Island.

Distance from Auberge French Forest: Approximately 25 kilometers (about 35 minutes by car)

5. Sumoto Castle

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Sumoto Castle, located in Sumoto City, is a historic castle dating back to the Edo period. It offers insights into Awaji Island's feudal past and provides panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape and Seto Inland Sea.

The castle grounds are open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its historical significance and architectural beauty.

Distance from Auberge French Forest: Approximately 12 kilometers (about 20 minutes by car).

These attractions near the Auberge French Forest on Awaji Island provide a range of experiences, from amusement park fun and cultural exploration to serene garden walks and historical sights, making them perfect destinations for guests seeking to explore the island's diverse offerings.

Auberge French Forest: A Retreat Full of Stories

Auberge French Forest in Awaji Island is more than a retreat—it's a narrative brought to life, where every meal, every room, and every bud tells a tale.

Whether you seek a culinary adventure, a peaceful getaway, or simply a touch of magic from "The Little Prince," this oasis promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace the charm of Awaji's French-inspired sanctuary and be captivated by the essence of Saint-Exupéry's timeless masterpiece!

Auberge French Forest: Information

Location: 2593-8 Kusumoto Aza Banaka, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
Dining fees: Full-Course Lunch starts from 7,000 yen, Full-Course Dinner starts from 10,000 yen
Hours: Lunch: 11:30 - 15:30 (Last Entry: 13:00), Dinner: 17:30 - 21:30 (Last Entry: 19:00)