Things to do
CULTURE
Awaji is steeped in Kojiki Japanese myths and traditions, both old and shiny new, including the iconic Hello Kitty and Godzilla shows. The 500-year-old art of ningyo joruri has been delighting audiences at the Awaji Puppet Theatre, where exquisitely crafted puppets have performed ancient fables accompanied by chanting and shamisen strings. Rich in cultural and fresh-from-the-sea culinary wonders, it’s easy to sense why Awaji is renowned as a wellness and fragrance island. 70% of Japan’s high-quality incense is made here – something to experience first-hand at a traditional incense-making workshop.
NATURE
Awaji is brimming with natural treasures to explore. Coastal paths take you to quiet beaches such as Ohama Beach, fringed by tall pine trees and crystal-clear blue waters. Further inland, lush green hills reveal patchwork farms, citrus groves and wild bamboo stands rustling in the breeze. Time your visit to the Naruto Strait to witness its dramatic tidal currents, where huge whirlpools form as sea meets sea. You can watch the turbulent waters from Onaruto Bridge or get daringly close on a sightseeing boat from the port in Minami-Awaji. When the sun sets, head down to Goshikihama beach where pebbles in five different colours glisten like precious gems.
LANDMARKS
Linking Kobe city with Iwaya on Awaji, at nearly four kilometres, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is the world’s longest suspension bridge. Another imposing monument is the bright red torii gate marking the entrance of the sacred Onokoro shrine. And you can’t miss the 900-year-old giant camphor tree by the Izanagi Jingu shrine. Known as the ‘husband and wife tree’, couples hoping for a harmonious marriage worship here. Design lovers will love the Water Temple belonging to the Omuro School of Shingon Buddhism. Designed by the iconic Japanese architect Tadao Ando, this unique labyrinth structure features a statue of Yakushi, the Medicine Buddha, next to an international conference centre and a hundred terraced flowerbeds.
