[Hyogo/Awaji Island] A day trip to Awaji Island from Kobe!

Here's a summary of Awaji Island day trip routes departing from Shin-Kobe Station by rental car!

① Awaji Province Ichinomiya: Izanagi Shrine
When traveling, be sure to greet the local gods.
This is the oldest shrine in Japan, dedicated to Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, the first married deities in Japan, whose history is recorded in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki.
Unfortunately, the main hall and approach to the shrine are currently undergoing renovations, and many areas were covered with sheets, but there were still many worshippers.
It's a place I'd like to visit again once it's cleaned up.

Location: 740 Taga, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture

② Tako Senbei Village
Buy your Awaji Island souvenirs here!
You can sample every type of senbei!
At the shop directly connected to the factory, line up and choose from a wide variety of tako senbei flavors.
Free coffee and tea are also available, making it a perfect place to take a break.
Although it's crowded, souvenir shopping is relatively smooth.

Location: 4155-1 Nakata, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (3:00 PM on New Year's Eve)

③ Sora to Umi
A cozy cafe near Tako Senbei no Sato.
The menu seems to be based on local ingredients, so the cafe attracts a steady stream of locals.
The grilled red sea bream I chose was plump, mild, and absolutely delicious.
I happened to be there, but it's a one-man operation, so it's best to contact them in advance.

Location: 8-1 Takeya, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
Hours: 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM (LO) / 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM (LO)
*Reservations required for parties of 5 or more.
*Closes once sold out.
Closed: Every Tuesday, third Wednesday, and Thursday

④ Uzushio Steamship
To see the whirlpools, our main goal, we took the Uzushio Steamship in Tokushima Prefecture, passing Awaji Island.
While there are steamships on Awaji Island, I was worried about getting seasick due to the long boat ride to the whirlpools, so I headed to the port on the Tokushima side, where the ride is shorter.
Apparently, the whirlpools are smaller at certain times of the day, so it's best to check the website and time your trip accordingly.
I went at a time when I was most excited.
The boats run regularly, so you don't have to wait long, which is great for time-sensitive tourists.
The boat rocks a little once out at sea, but the spray is just right for summer, and I was thrilled to see so many whirlpools!

Location: 65-63 Fukuike, Tosa-tomari-ura, Naruto-cho, Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture
Price: ¥1,600 for adults (cash only)
Duration: About 20 minutes

⑤ Uzushio Roadside Station in Uzumachi Terrace
This roadside station is located on a hilltop with a great view.
There was a line for the hamburger, but I was full, so I opted for the mandarin orange juice.
It's a light, refreshing drink perfect for the hot weather. Awaji Island onions were also available for sale and shipping.
Please note that there are few covered areas and the sun is very hot.

Location: 947-8 Fukura-Hei, Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
*Please note that the location is currently different due to renovations until September 15th.

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