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Awaji Island Retreat

Guided by locals, this journey invites you to experience Awaji Island as if you were truly living there, immersed in its quiet island life in the mythical birthplace of Japan.

Duration
2 nights 3 days
Group Size
1-8 people
Price
¥400,000~/person

The waves come in and gently recede, creating a simple and calming moment.

After the bridge rose in 1998, the world grew nearer—yet the island stayed quietly itself.

A lady working in her field beneath a full-bloom cherry tree—such a nostalgic, quietly beautiful scene.

100% handmade salt, slowly born from Awaji Island seawater, boiled for 40 hours over a wood fire in a large iron pot.

Not Michelin-starred, but perhaps something even more special—an authentic taste of this local place.

Portable shrines appear in festivals. On Awaji Island, they also take on a rare form—boat-shaped danjiri (Fune-Danjiri).

Izanagi Shrine, the sacred setting of Japan’s creation myth.

This spearhead-shaped megalith is said to be one of the sacred sites featured in Japanese mythology.

Terraced rice fields stretch across the vast valley in a stunning landscape—its beauty makes it hard to imagine the hardship of farming here.

Introduction

Return to Balance in the Birthplace of Japan

Awaji Island, just an hour from Osaka, offers a completely different experience from the city. Surrounded by nature, this peaceful island allows you to slow down, connect with locals, and experience a way of life as if you were living there.

Enjoy local cuisine at small restaurants, stroll through seasonal landscapes, and visit artisan workshops—this tailor-made journey is guided by locals who deeply love and know the island.

According to Japanese mythology, Awaji Island is considered the birthplace of Japan. As you watch the sun set over its quiet coastline, you may feel a subtle sense of connection to its ancient origins.

The island also holds deep cultural significance. It is home to a rich heritage, including the 500-year-old tradition of Awaji puppet theater, and is known as one of Japan’s leading producers of incense.

Following its history invites you to reflect on both the past and the present.
Where do we come from, and where are we going? This journey will be designed to gently reconnect you with these timeless questions.

More Information

Connecting with Locals

We believe the key to truly understanding a place lies in its people. We would love to offer you the opportunity not only to visit and create your own memories, but also to connect with the locals.
Your local guides, who live on the island, will share their personal experiences and their love for the place. From beautiful nature to local shops and delicious food, you will experience the real island through the eyes of those who call it home.

Food and Nature’s Bounty

On this island, surrounded by the sea, both fishing and agriculture flourish. Let’s explore one of them, as understanding food means understanding the land.
Fresh fish caught by local fishermen and prepared at local restaurants offers the ultimate luxury—an experience that allows you to become part of the land itself. Visiting artisans who continue the traditional craft of producing salt from seawater is also a fascinating experience.

A Culture Rooted in This Land

Each region across Japan has its own historic temples and festivals. Among them, one of the most distinctive features of Awaji Island is its puppet theater tradition (Awaji Ningyo Joruri), which has been passed down for over 500 years. It is still carried on by young successors today—using the same tools as their ancestors and continuing to entertain audiences in Japan and around the world, just as it has for centuries.
We sincerely hope that these unique traditions will continue to be preserved for another 500 years to come.

Awaji Island, the Birthplace of Japan

This beautiful island is regarded as the mythical birthplace of Japan. When visiting, it is essential to explore its spiritual roots.
As Japanese, we always felt something spiritual on this island and we believe you will do so. Experience historic shrines, incense workshops, and serene Zen meditation surrounded by peaceful nature. Amid abundant nature and quiet moments, the spirit of Zen and self-reflection can be deeply felt.

Awaji Island and Artistic Architecture

It is well known that many artists draw inspiration from rich nature when creating their own works.
It is no coincidence that the renowned architect Tadao Ando has created numerous works on this island. On its vast grounds, his concrete architecture harmonizes beautifully with nature at Awaji Yumebutai, while at Honpuku-ji Temple, nestled beneath a pond where large lotus flowers bloom, a mystical atmosphere emerges.
Perhaps what makes his works so compelling is this consistent theme of harmony with nature, reflecting his deep desire to achieve it.

Inclusions

2 nights accommodation with dinners and breakfasts

Fully customized itinerary

Cultural Activities (ZEN meditation, calligraphy, traditional puppet theater, etc.)

Full day licensed guide's escort with private car service

Round transfer from Osaka (Please ask for other places)

Exclusions

Lunch

Beverage

Gratuity (5-10%)

Languages

English

Francais

Espanol

Chinese

Korean

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