Awaji Island Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island

Facts and practical information

Awaji Island, located in the Hyōgo region of Japan, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. With its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and delicious local cuisine, Awaji Island is a must-visit for travelers seeking a truly immersive experience.

One of the highlights of Awaji Island is its stunning natural scenery. The island is known for its lush greenery, vibrant flower gardens, and breathtaking coastal views. Visitors can explore the Awaji Hanasajiki, a vast flower park that boasts a colorful array of blooms throughout the year. The park offers a tranquil setting for leisurely walks and picnics, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the island's serene atmosphere.

For history enthusiasts, Awaji Island offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. The island is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks that showcase its storied past. One of the most notable attractions is the Izanagi Shrine, which is said to be the birthplace of Japan's gods according to ancient mythology. The shrine's serene surroundings and traditional architecture make it a truly enchanting place to visit.

No trip to Awaji Island would be complete without indulging in its delectable cuisine. The island is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly its succulent oysters and savory sea bream. Visitors can savor these culinary delights at the local seafood markets or dine at one of the island's many seafood restaurants. Additionally, Awaji Island is also famous for its onion production, and visitors can try dishes featuring this flavorful ingredient at the island's various onion-themed restaurants.

Aside from its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and gastronomic delights, Awaji Island also offers a range of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The island boasts numerous hiking trails, cycling routes, and scenic viewpoints, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the island's stunning landscapes. Additionally, Awaji Island is also home to several hot springs, where visitors can relax and rejuvenate amidst the island's tranquil ambiance.

Local name: 淡路島 Area: 228.57 mi²Maximum elevation: 1988 ftCoordinates: 34°21'50"N, 134°50'17"E

Location

HyōgoJapan

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Awaji Island Top Attractions

Awaji Island Attractions - What to See and Explore

Awaji Island offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Awaji Kannon, Kiseki No Hoshi Greenhouse, Awaji Yumebutai, Nojima Fault. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Memorial
Awaji Kannon
Awaji Kannon or World Peace Giant Kannon, a museum and a temple in Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. The structure is currently abandoned.
Botanical garden with a greenhouse
Kiseki No Hoshi Greenhouse
The Kiseki No Hoshi Greenhouse, also known as the Miracle Planet Museum of Plants, is a botanical garden within a greenhouse located at Yumebutai 4 Banchi, Higashiura-cho, Tsuna, Awaji, Hyōgo, Japan. It is open most days; an admission fee is charged.
Observation decks and towers • Garden • Playground
Awaji Yumebutai
The Awaji Yumebutai is a complex of conference center, hotel and memorial in Awaji, Hyōgo, built near the epicenter of the 1995 Great Hanshin Awaji earthquake. It was designed by Tadao Ando, who had begun planning for the project prior to the earthquake. The hotel is operated as the Westin Awaji Island Resort.

Specialty museum • Park • Museum
Nojima Fault
Nojima Fault is a fault that was responsible for the Great Hanshin earthquake of 1995. It cuts across Awaji Island, Japan and it is a branch of the Japan Median Tectonic Line which runs the length of the southern half of Honshu island.
Historical place • Sacred and religious sites • Temple
Izanagi Shrine
Izanagi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Awaji, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan. It is dedicated to the kami Izanagi and Izanami. It was formerly an Imperial shrine of the first rank under the Modern system of ranked Shinto Shrines.
34°14'31"N • 134°39'0"E
Naruto Strait
Naruto Strait is a strait between Awaji Island and Shikoku in Japan. It connects Harima Nada, the eastern part of the Inland Sea and the Kii Channel. A famous feature of the strait is the Naruto whirlpools. Ōnaruto Bridge, the southern part of the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway, crosses over it.
Lighthouse • Vernacular architecture
Esaki Lighthouse
Esaki Lighthouse is a lighthouse in Awaji, Hyōgo Japan. A portion of the lighthouse is Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan.
Park
Awaji huasajiki
Hyogo Prefectural Park Awaji-Hanasaji is a park located in Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan.On March 5, 2020, "Awaji-Hanasaji" was renamed and renewed as "Hyogo Prefectural Park Awaji-Hanasaji".
Universities and schools
Kansai University of Nursing and Health Sciences
Kansai University of Nursing and Health Sciences is a private university in Awaji, Hyōgo, Japan. The school was established in 2006 as Junshin-kai University of Nursing and Health. The school adopted the present name in 2008.

Day trips

Awaji Island – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Awaji Island, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Himeji Castle (Himeji), Osaka Castle (Osaka), Universal Studios Japan (Osaka).

34 milesN
Landmark 17th-century white castle
Himeji Castle, Himeji
Himeji Castle, a quintessential example of Japanese castle architecture, stands magnificently in the city of Himeji, Japan. Often referred to as the "White Heron Castle" due to its elegant white exterior and resemblance to a bird taking flight, this UNESCO World...
45 milesNE
Renowned, historic castle with a museum
Osaka Castle, Osaka
Osaka Castle, a historic fortress nestled in the heart of Osaka, Japan, stands as a testament to the country's rich feudal history. Constructed in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a prominent daimyo and warrior, this iconic structure symbolizes power and fortitude.
40 milesNE
Movie-themed amusement park with rides
Universal Studios Japan, Osaka
Universal Studios Japan, located in the vibrant city of Osaka, is a world-class amusement park that brings the magic of movies, animations, and thrilling experiences to life. Since its grand opening in March 2001, it has become a must-visit destination for tourists...
39 milesNE
Huge landmark for marine-life exhibits
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Osaka
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan stands as a testament to the marvels of aquatic life, nestled in the vibrant city of Osaka, Japan. This impressive facility, known as one of the largest and most spectacular aquariums in the world, offers visitors an immersive journey through...
45 milesNE
Large urban park with gardens and a castle
Osaka Castle Park, Osaka
Osaka Castle Park, a verdant oasis nestled in the heart of Osaka, Japan, is an emblematic site that combines rich history with scenic beauty. The park, centered around the majestic Osaka Castle, offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the tranquility of...

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Best Time To Visit Awaji Island

Learn when is the best time to travel to Awaji Island weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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May and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in April.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in December. Most of it rains in June and September.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Awaji Island?

The top attractions to visit in Awaji Island are:

What is the best time to visit Awaji Island?

May and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in April. The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.