Top reasons to visit Awaji Island
- Stunning Natural Beauty: Awaji Island features scenic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and tranquil views, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
- Cultural Experiences: Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture through historical sites and traditional temples.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: The island boasts theme parks, a water park, and outdoor activities suitable for all ages.
- Luxurious Accommodations: Explore a range of stays, from traditional ryokans to modern resorts with hot spring experiences.
- Wellness Retreats: Awaji Island offers various wellness activities, including body treatments and spa experiences for rejuvenation.
Find great hotels near Awaji Island
Awaji Island offers a delightful selection of accommodations, catering to various preferences. From traditional ryokans to modern hotels, guests can indulge in hot spring experiences, beachside relaxation, and luxurious spa treatments. Notable options include Awaji Country Garden, Grand Mercure Awaji Island Resort, Nikko Awaji, Pancake Honten Awaji Island Resort, and Aquaignis Hotel, each providing a unique glimpse into the serene beauty and hospitality of this picturesque destination.
- Seaside Hotel Maiko Villa Kobe: Nestled along the coast, Seaside Hotel Maiko Villa Kobe is a 4-star establishment known for its beach and golf themes. Located 32km from Awaji Island, this hotel boasts direct access to a stunning beach, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relaxation by the sea. Guests can indulge in golf experiences right at the property, enhancing their stay with leisure activities that combine nature and sport. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this hotel offers a pleasant blend of coastal charm and recreational opportunities.
- Smile Hotel Nishiakashi: A 3-star hotel, Smile Hotel Nishiakashi is also situated 32km from Awaji Island. This lodging option provides a variety of dining experiences, including self-serve breakfast and daily meal plans, catering to guests’ culinary preferences. In terms of entertainment, the hotel offers a range of television options, including pay movies and flat-screen TVs, ensuring guests can unwind after a day of exploration. With its focus on comfort and convenience, it is an affordable choice for those enjoying their time in the region.
- Grand Mercure Awaji Island Resort & Spa: Located just 21km from Awaji Island, the Grand Mercure Awaji Island Resort & Spa is a 3.5-star destination that scores an impressive guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This resort is designed for families seeking a hot spring experience, featuring natural hot springs onsite for relaxation and rejuvenation. The property offers amenities tailored for children, including an arcade game room and a shared playground, making it a family-friendly choice. With a serene atmosphere and attentive service, it serves as a great retreat for both adults and younger guests.
Where to stay near Awaji Island
Awaji Island, the largest island in the Japanese archipelago, offers a delightful blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Explore the charming Awaji Province and its friendly municipalities, where historical sites and scenic beauty abound. Ideal for family vacations, this island invites you to experience its romantic atmosphere and wellness retreats. Discover the vibrant local culture and enjoy budget-friendly options while immersing yourself in the serene landscapes of Awajishima Island.
- Sumoto: Located a mere 6km from Awaji Island, Sumoto is a vibrant city that attracts visitors year-round, particularly peaking from July to September. Known for its cultural experiences, wellness retreats, and family-friendly activities, Sumoto offers a delightful mix of relaxation and exploration. Here, you can indulge in rejuvenating body treatments, shop at the local shopping mall, or explore charming shopping areas. The city's highlights include soothing onsens and hot springs, perfect for unwinding, alongside exciting theme parks that cater to all ages.
- Gunge: A quaint village just 8km from Awaji Island, Gunge beckons with its family-oriented, culturally themed, and outdoor experiences. Travellers typically flock to Gunge in March and from October to November, making it an ideal spot for a serene getaway. Visitors can enjoy body treatments at local wellness centres or experience the thrill of nearby amusement parks. The village is also close to delightful attractions such as hot springs and onsens, making it a perfect escape for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and relaxation.
- Awaji: Situated 14km from Awaji Island, the city of Awaji offers a moderately seasonal influx of travellers, with peak visits in April and during the summer months. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, entertainment options, and cultural activities, Awaji boasts a variety of shopping centres and areas that provide ample retail therapy. The city's attractions include lively theme parks, as well as soothing onsens and hot springs, inviting visitors to experience both excitement and relaxation during their stay.
Things to do near Awaji Island
Shopping
Visit Awaji Island's Awaji World Park Oasis, where you can find delightful local crafts and fresh produce. For a more traditional experience, explore the bustling Awaji Island Farmers' Market, offering a variety of handmade goods and regional delicacies, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Recreation
At Awaji Island's Sumoto Onsen, indulge in rejuvenating hot spring baths while enjoying panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. Participate in yoga sessions amidst serene gardens or unwind with traditional Japanese massages, providing a tranquil escape and a chance to reconnect with nature.
Adventure
The Bizan Ropeway offers stunning aerial views as you ascend to the summit, located 45km from Awaji Island. Enjoy an exhilarating ride surrounded by nature, perfect for families seeking adventure. Similarly, the Shin-Kobe Ropeway, situated 47km away, provides a thrilling experience with breathtaking panoramas.
Nightlife
Awaji Island's nightlife offers a blend of local charm and vibrant entertainment. Visit the lively bars in Sumoto for a relaxed evening, or explore the seaside cafes in Awaji City to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze while sipping local drinks. Don’t miss out on the seasonal festivals for unique experiences.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Awaji Island
To save money on your visit to Awaji Island, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February and June, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield affordable rates, and check for last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days for stays, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and combine flights, hotels, and activities for added savings. Don't miss out on free activities like exploring the island's natural beauty and local culture.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Awaji Island are January to February and June, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Awaji Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Awaji Island is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Awaji Island is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation on Awaji Island with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Awaji Island
Awaji Island, perfect for cultural, wellness, and family vacations, offers a variety of attractions such as beautiful beaches, theme parks, and temples. Visitors can explore Awaji Hanasajiki and Awaji Yumebutai, while enjoying outdoor activities and cultural experiences. A comprehensive Awaji Island tourism guide can enhance your visit, ensuring you make the most of this charming destination.
- Shinkanji Temple: Nestled 23km from Awaji Island, Shinkanji Temple offers a serene atmosphere rich in cultural significance. Visitors can explore its beautiful architecture, tranquil gardens, and partake in traditional practices that reflect Japan's spiritual heritage.
- Otsuka Art Museum: Located 26km away, the Otsuka Art Museum features an impressive collection of reproductions of Western masterpieces, allowing guests to appreciate renowned works in a unique setting. Its immersive exhibits provide a fascinating glimpse into art history.
- Nizigen Nomori Park: Just 24km from Awaji Island, Nizigen Nomori Park is a vibrant theme park that combines entertainment with nature. Families can enjoy various attractions, including outdoor activities and themed experiences inspired by popular anime.
Best time to go to Awaji Island
The best time to visit Awaji Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Awaji Island falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature around Awaji Island falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Awaji Island
Reaching Awaji Island is convenient with several nearby airports. Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is 71km away, with luxurious options such as the 5-star Swissotel Nankai Osaka, located 14km from the airport, offering airport transfers. Kobe Airport (UKB) is closer at 45km, featuring the ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe, 8km away, providing scheduled shuttle services, and the Kobe Portopia Hotel, just 3km from the airport. Okayama Airport (OKJ) is the furthest at 98km, with good hotels like the 4-star Hotel Granvia Okayama, located 13km away. Each of these airports offers convenient access to Awaji Island for a delightful holiday experience.