Boasting picturesque coastlines, a vibrant cultural scene, and delicious cuisine, Awaji—the biggest island in the Seto Inland Sea—makes for an excellent getaway near Osaka. Below are six compelling reasons why you should consider spending your vacation there!
The Sunset Line, a route featuring many beaches ideal for watching the sun set.
To experience a Californian vibe, take the Sunset Line—a coastal route on Awaji Island’s western edge. This scenic path showcases an array of beaches suitable for relaxation or swimming. Notable locations include Keino Matsubara Beach, known for its soft sands and ancient pines, as well as Taganohama Beach, which boasts tranquil waters ideal for family outings. Moving further northward, discover hidden bays perfect for snorkeling or kayaking amidst crystal-clear seas. Additionally, driving from Matsuhonoura Bay towards Keino Matsubara Beach provides a delightful journey through picturesque landscapes.
The Naruto swirls, an impressive spectacle
Located at the southern end of the island, the Naruto Strait is renowned for its massive naturally occurring whirlpools, some of the biggest globally. These remarkable formations occur when two powerful sea currents collide and become visible during each high tide period. Visitors interested in getting an intimate view may opt for a boat tour through this area. Alternatively, individuals seeking a drier experience can traverse the Uzu-no-michi walkway elevated 45 meters over the water. Alongside providing breathtaking views of the swirling waters below, this bridge also features educational panels explaining how these phenomena come into being.
The Nojima Fault Preservation Museum, to comprehend the events of the 1995 quake
At the northernmost point of the island, the Nojima Fault Preservation Museum offers visitors a comprehensive look at the effects of the devastating 1995 earthquake that impacted the entirety of the Kobe area, starting from this very island of Awaji. Situated precisely where the epicenter was located, the museum showcases a meticulously conserved segment of the Nojisma fault along with a home that remarkably remained intact after the calamity. Inside the residence’s living space, an interactive flooring system recreates the experience of the 40-second tremor, replicating the various phases of shaking endured by locals during those harrowing moments. Surrounding the site, the Hokudan Memorial Park encourages contemplation through memorials dedicated to the 6,437 individuals who perished and spaces designed for quiet reflection.
Awaji Hanasajiki Park, fields of flowers changing colour with the seasons
Perched atop the northern hillside of the island lies Awaji Hanasajiki Park, which delights visitors year-round as it bursts into bloom according to each season’s rhythm. During summertime, vibrant sunflowers dominate; come fall, they yield to graceful daisies. Spring brings forth an array of tulips and poppies painting the landscape in vivid hues across approximately 15 hectares of undulating terrain. When not basking under these colorful canopies, guests can enjoy sweeping panoramas extending outwards from the park, offering scenic vistas even when flower beds lie dormant between blooming periods. Osaka Bay And the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge.
An culinary adventure on a lush island
Abundant and encircled by waters brimming with fish, Awaji is celebrated for the excellence of its locally grown products. The island’s main city, Sumoto, is notable for its Muromachi-period castle (built in 1526), which boasts many distinctive characteristics. shokudo At these dining spots, you can savor various types of Japanese dishes and explore the bounty from both land and sea. Be sure to taste Awaji beef, which stands toe-to-toe with renowned Kobe beef, along with Awaji onions, often deemed the finest in the country. For seafood enthusiasts, an array of catches such as fish, sea urchins, and eels from nearby waters awaits your delight.
The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, an impressive feat of engineering, spans vast waters.
The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge connects Awaji Island with the city of Kobe and serves more than just as a passage to reach the biggest island in the Seto Inland Sea. Spanning 3,911 meters, this structure ranks as the second longest suspension bridge globally and stands out architecturally, offering stunning views of Osaka Bay. For an unforgettable perspective, visit the Maiko Marine Promenade—a thrilling elevated pathway situated inside the bridge itself—located 47 meters over the sea where you can gaze down onto the Seto Inland Sea via the transparent floor panels! With prior booking, visitors have the opportunity to ascend one of the bridge’s piers reaching up to 300 meters high, providing panoramic vistas across the whole bay below.
Valuable tips for discovering Awaji Island
Readily reachable from Kobe within 1 hour or from Osaka in about 2 hours via the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and ferry services, Awaji Island can be explored in just one hectic day. Nonetheless, spending the night allows for a leisurely exploration of the island, providing ample time to savor its tranquility during peaceful evening hours.
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