Awaji Island

Introducing Awaji Island

Awaji Island is located in the Seto Inland Sea, between Honshu and Shikoku. Since ancient times, Awaji Island has served as a vital link between Honshu and Shikoku. It borders the Akashi Strait to the north, the Ki-Awa Strait to the east, the Naruto Strait to the southwest, the Kii Channel to the south, and the Harima Sea to the west. The island covers an area of ​​593 square kilometers.

Climate and best time to travel

Spring (March-May)
Narcissus Field (December-March): Five million yellow daffodils bloom on a 45-degree sea-facing slope. We recommend visiting Ozaki Narcissus Village, where the morning light and fragrance blend with the sea breeze.
Blue Eye Garden (April-May): In the "Rainbow of the Earth" flower garden in Akashi Kaikyo Park, blue and white philodendrons resemble stars falling from the sky.

During the summer (June-August),
the Naruto Whirlpools reach their peak: at high tide, the whirlpools reach a diameter of 20 meters. Experience the roar up close on a whirlpool boat tour (departing within an hour of high or low tide). Enjoy
a night tour of the Second Dimension Forest: After 6:00 PM, the park is illuminated, and the Thunder Wolf Dragon balloon transforms into a lightning behemoth, creating a magical atmosphere as the summer heat dissipates.

Autumn (September-November)
Dream Stage: Tadao Ando's geometric buildings dance with maple leaves, and the stepped flower beds of Hyakudan-en Garden are transformed into a red carpet. 49.
Onion Harvest Season: Challenge the onion machine at Michi-no-Eki Uzushio (100 yen/try) and win 1.5 kg of Shiokaze onions. 6.

Winter (December-February)
Night Worship at the Shrine: On the 22nd of each month, candlelight worship
is offered at Izano Jingu Shrine, a journey through the millennia-old divine realm. Escape the cold with a hot spring retreat: The Westin Sea Chapel is recommended. The red light of the underground sanctuary pierces the cracks of the cross, offering a tranquil and soothing experience.

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Most Popular FAQs for Awaji Island

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Awaji Island is historically important in Japanese mythology as the first island created by the gods. It has been a key transport and cultural hub between Honshu and Shikoku and is known for its natural beauty, agriculture, and traditional crafts.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Awaji Island is in the Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, connected to Honshu by the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and to Shikoku via the Naruto Strait. Access is by car, bus, or bicycle. Trains run to nearby cities, and taxis are available for local transport.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Most attractions: 9:00–17:00
• Best time: spring (March–May) for flowers, autumn (September–November) for foliage
• Summer is ideal for beach activities

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Awaji Yumebutai: approx. ¥310, tickets at entrance
• Awaji Hanasajiki: ¥500–¥700, tickets at entrance
• Onokoro theme park: ¥1,500–¥2,500, tickets online or at gate

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended for Onokoro theme park and special guided tours, usually 1–3 days ahead. Most gardens and observation decks can be visited without prior booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days to enjoy main attractions, beaches, and sightseeing spots comfortably.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Awaji Yumebutai
• Awaji Hanasajiki
• Naruto Whirlpools
• Sumoto Castle ruins
• Awaji World Park Onokoro

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Japanese and English at major attractions. Audio guides may be limited to select sites.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Observation deck of Onaruto Bridge for Naruto Whirlpools
• Awaji Yumebutai gardens
• Awaji Hanasajiki flower fields
• Sunset at Tsuna or Sumoto beaches
• Sumoto Castle ruins

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Day 1: Awaji Yumebutai → Awaji Hanasajiki → Sumoto Castle ruins
• Day 2: Onaruto Bridge → Naruto Whirlpools boat tour → Tsuna beaches
• Day 3: Awaji World Park Onokoro → local markets and culinary experiences

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Some gardens and Onokoro theme park offer evening illumination events seasonally. Night visits to beaches are possible but not formally organized.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Peak crowds: Golden Week (late April–early May) and summer holidays
• Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
• Morning visits reduce congestion at popular spots

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include restrooms, cafes, souvenir shops, rest areas, parking, and vending machines at most tourist sites.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main gardens and theme parks provide wheelchair access; some observation decks and hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted. Major attractions, hotels, and restaurants generally accept credit cards and mobile payment options.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local seafood restaurants, cafes at gardens and parks, and small eateries in Sumoto and Awaji towns offer regional cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at select restaurants; Halal options are limited and may require checking in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Options include seaside resorts, ryokans, guesthouses, and hotels near major attractions and Sumoto town.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Onaruto Bridge observation deck
• Sumoto Onsen hot springs
• Local craft villages and markets
• Awaji Island parks and hiking trails

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local crafts, Awaji onions, flower-themed items, and regional sweets.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Car or rental car for flexible travel around the island
• Bus connections to Kobe, Osaka, and Naruto area
• Bicycles for short-distance exploration along scenic routes