Awaji

Awaji is a city on Awaji Island, connected to the main island of Honshu by the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The city occupies the northern part of the island and includes the Awaji Yumebutai complex, a renowned architectural and horticultural site designed by Tadao Ando. Awaji Island has a rich history as a stop on the old pilgrimage route and is known for its onions, beef, and scenic coastline.

Awaji City is accessible by car or bus across the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge from Kobe (about 40 minutes by car from Kobe City). There is no train service on Awaji Island. Highway buses from Osaka (Namba) and Kobe run to the island, taking about 1 hour.

A car is essential for exploring Awaji Island. Bus services connect the main towns but are infrequent.

• Awaji Yumebutai — a stunning complex of gardens, a conference centre, and the Westin Awaji Island hotel, designed by Tadao Ando.

• Akashi Kaikyo Bridge viewpoint — the longest suspension bridge in the world; viewing platforms are on the Awaji side.

• Awaji World Park Onokoro — an amusement and flower park with a giant Ferris wheel.

• Awaji City Museum of History — exhibits on Awaji's role in the Nara period, including the Awaji puppet theatre tradition.

• Michi-no-Eki Awaji — a roadside station with local produce, restaurants, and a view of the bridge.

• Walk the Yumebutai gardens — the tiered flower beds and water features are a highlight.

• Awaji puppet theatre (Ningyo Joruri) — traditional puppet performances are held at the Awaji Ningyo-za theatre.

• Cycling across the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge — the bridge has a pedestrian path (with prior application).

• Coastal walks — the northern coast has scenic paths with views of the bridge and Osaka Bay.

Awaji beef is a high-quality wagyu comparable to Kobe beef. Onion-based dishes like onion soup and onion steak are local specialities. Seafood from the Seto Inland Sea is also excellent.

Local sake and awamori are produced on the island. Awaji's citrus fruits are used in fresh juices and liqueurs.

Accommodation ranges from the Westin Awaji Island Resort at Yumebutai to mid-range hotels and minshuku along the coast.

Awaji onions are the island's most famous product — sweet, mild, and sold at roadside stations. Awaji beef is another premium product.

• Kobe — the port city, across the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
• Akashi — the city on the Honshu bridgehead
• Sumoto — the main city of southern Awaji Island
• Tokushima — the gateway to Shikoku via the Naruto Bridge