At the Naruto Strait, the tides create whirlpools that can be viewed from beneath the Ōnaruto Bridge. They offer a tangible introduction to the region’s natural highlights on a trip to Minami-Awaji. Other attractions include the coastal landscape of Keino Matsubara, trails on Mount Yuzuruha and a cultural tradition passed down over centuries. These varied highlights make it easy to plan a trip around your own interests.

Whirlpools and coastal landscapes

The Ōnaruto Bridge spans the Naruto Strait and connects Shikoku with Awaji Island. The whirlpools formed by the tides can be viewed from beneath the bridge; in spring and autumn, they can reach about 30 meters in diameter. The Uzushio Cruise offers a guided trip during which a guide explains how the Naruto Whirlpools form and describes features of the region. This provides an informative perspective on the natural phenomenon in addition to the chance to observe it. If you plan to take the cruise, check its availability with the operator before your trip.

Mountain nature and hiking trails

At 607.9 meters, Mount Yuzuruha is the highest mountain on Awaji Island. Its trails include the Yuzuruha Kodō and the Kinki Nature Trail. Mount Yuzuruha is part of Setonaikai National Park. Its warm climate and varied terrain support rare plants and animals. Here, the focus is on elevation, named hiking trails and distinctive flora and fauna.

Keino Matsubara: beach, pines and conservation

Keino Matsubara is on the west coast of Awaji Island. Its white-sand beach borders a shallow, calm stretch of coast; beside it, a pine forest of about 50,000 trees extends for roughly 2.5 kilometers. Visitors can stroll alongside the forest. Keino Matsubara is also one of Japan’s “100 Best Sunset Spots.”

A conservation program gives participants the opportunity to learn more about the pine forest’s history, plant life and ecosystem. Activities may include collecting pine needles and cleaning the coast. Young pine trees are planted seasonally, from February to March. The program combines knowledge about the forest with hands-on conservation work. While Keino Matsubara brings together the coast, sand and pine forest, Mount Yuzuruha is known for its elevation and named hiking trails.

Culture and activities

Awaji Ningyō Jōruri adds a distinctive cultural dimension. This tradition has been preserved and passed down for more than 500 years. Over time, it has embraced new elements without changing its essence. This combination of a long tradition and continued evolution sets it apart from the nature and coastal experiences.

Another range of activities is available at Awaji Janohire Outdoor Resort on the Janohire coast at the southern tip of Awaji Island. The resort is surrounded by the sea and mountains. Activities on offer include meeting dolphins, fishing, sea kayaking, SUP and FIB. This range of options complements walks and hiking trails; which ones interest you will depend on whether you want to focus on culture, scenery or active experiences.

Discover more destinations: Yabu, Nishinomiya, Sumoto, Sasayama, Kami, Kato, Tatsuno, Kakogawa

For the broader travel overview: Hyōgo Prefecture.