Awaji
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Awaji's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Begin your day with a refreshing breakfast at a seaside café, enjoying local delicacies while gazing at the tranquil waters. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, feeling the gentle sea breeze and listening to the soothing sound of the waves. Visit the nearby Awaji Island Art Museum to admire both contemporary and traditional Japanese art inspired by the island's natural beauty.
Savor a delightful lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, where you can taste seasonal dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Spend your afternoon at the Awaji Hanasajiki, a stunning flower park that bursts with color and fragrance, perfect for an afternoon of relaxation and photography. Consider a guided bike tour around the island to discover hidden gems and scenic viewpoints.
As the sun sets, find a charming spot for dinner, such as an ocean-view restaurant known for its fresh seafood. Afterward, stroll along the beach, watching the sky transform into a canvas of colors as twilight settles in. End your day by soaking in an onsen, allowing the warmth and tranquility to envelop you beneath the starry night.
Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation, enjoying the serene surroundings while planning your itinerary. Head to Awaji Yumebutai, an architectural masterpiece designed by Tadao Ando, where you can explore beautiful gardens and exhibition spaces that connect nature and art. Engage in a guided tour to learn about the cultural significance and innovative design of this unique facility.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café within the Yumebutai complex, indulging in dishes that highlight Awaji's local produce. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Naruto Whirlpools, where you can take a cruise to witness this natural phenomenon firsthand. Take a short hike along the scenic trails that overlook the whirlpools and enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean.
Dine at a traditional izakaya, experiencing the lively atmosphere and sampling a variety of small plates paired with local sake. After dinner, take a walk to observe the illuminated Yumebutai gardens, where the vibrant lights create a magical ambiance. End your evening stargazing from a quiet spot along the coast, soaking in the serene beauty of the night sky.
Start your day with an energizing breakfast at a local bakery, picking up fresh pastries and coffee to fuel your adventures. Enjoy a morning hike at the Awaji Island National Park, where serene trails offer stunning vistas of the surrounding landscapes and coastline. Be on the lookout for native wildlife and unique flora that thrive in this coastal paradise.
Pack a lunch for a picnic at one of the many lookout points within the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Afterward, visit the Awaji Farm Park, where you can participate in seasonal activities like fruit picking, animal feeding, and engaging with local farmers. Let the kids enjoy the petting zoo while you relax with a homemade ice cream made from local ingredients.
As dusk approaches, find a local restaurant known for its famous Awaji beef, offering a taste of this regional delicacy grilled to perfection. After your meal, head to the nearby beach to watch the sunset cast a golden glow over the horizon. Spend your evening relaxing by the bonfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, sampling regional dishes that reflect the island's culinary heritage. Explore the Awaji Island Cultural and Historical Museum to gain insights into the island's rich history and traditional crafts. Participate in a pottery workshop, creating your own souvenir while learning about local artisanship.
Have lunch at a nearby soba shop that uses local ingredients to craft delicious handmade noodles. Afterward, visit the Nushima Island, known for its historical significance during the Edo period; take a short ferry ride to immerse yourself in the island's past and its beautiful scenery. Explore the quaint streets filled with traditional houses and local shops.
Return to Awaji Island and have dinner at a family-run restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic dishes made from recipes passed down through generations. Stroll through Awaji Town's charming streets, perhaps stopping for some evening shopping for local handicrafts. Conclude your day by enjoying a local festival if you're there during the season, participating in traditional games and dances.
Kick off your day with a visit to a tranquil wellness resort, where you can enjoy a healthy breakfast tailored for rejuvenation. Afterward, participate in a morning yoga session on the beach, allowing the sound of the waves to enhance your practice. Refresh your mind and body with a meditation walk along the shoreline.
Enjoy a nutritious lunch featuring seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients that promote wellness. Spend your afternoon pampering yourself with spa treatments, including massages and skincare sessions that utilize natural Awaji products. Engage in a calming nature therapy on a guided forest bathing experience, connecting with the serene environment.
Dine at a health-focused restaurant that specializes in organic cuisine, providing a wholesome experience that nourishes your body. After dinner, join a stargazing session hosted by the wellness resort, where an expert guides you through the constellations visible from the island. Wind down your evening with herbal tea and reflections from your day, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Start your culinary journey with breakfast at a popular local café known for its freshly baked bread and artisanal coffee. Join a morning cooking class focused on traditional Awaji cuisine, where you'll learn to prepare dishes using local ingredients. Taste your creations as a mid-morning snack before heading out on more adventures.
Savor lunch at a local fish market, sampling fresh catches of the day and engaging with local fishermen about their practices. Spend your afternoon at the Awaji Island Culinary Academy, where you can explore workshops or demonstrations on Japanese culinary techniques. Enjoy an interactive experience working alongside local chefs to enhance your skills.
Conclude your culinary day with dinner at a kaiseki restaurant, indulging in a multi-course meal that highlights seasonal produce and delicate flavors. After your meal, participate in a sake tasting session to learn about the different varieties produced on the island. Wrap up your experience with a night walk through the local market, where the evening bustle brings the flavors of Awaji to life.