Hidden Hot Spring Resort Near Osaka – A Travelogue of The Awaji Island Onsen – Part 2

Hidden Hot Spring Resort Near Osaka – A Travelogue of The Awaji Island Onsen
Part 2

Day Two

Heading to the pier for Uzushio (whirlpool) Cruise

On the morning of the second day, I drove 50 minutes to the Fukura Port, and experienced the Uzushio Cruise. Giant Naruto whirlpools, one of the largest of its kind in the world, can be observed from the ship.

During the period from late November to mid-March, flying seagulls usually follow the ship, creating a nice picture.

When the ship approached the Onaruto Bridge, the whirlpools were right in front of my eyes!

I was touched by the force of nature.

A foot bath and stores can be found near the pier.

Onions are a specialty of the Awaji Island.

Useful link: Uzushio (whirlpool) Cruise official web site

Heading to Awaji Hamarikyu

I moved on to the ryokan right after the cruise. While it may be great to spend the whole day sightseeing, arriving at the ryokan early and having some time off is also a good way to get the most out of an onsen ryokan.

I arrived at Awaji Hamarikyu, my accommodation this night, after a 10-min drive.

A beach dotted with pine trees spread out in front of the ryokan.

The interior was gorgeous.

Guest-only lounges and terraces let me linger comfortably even outside my room.

I stayed at a guest room of the “Special Floor” class, equipped with a private open-air bath.

It’s a gracious and pleasant wa-yo-shitsu.

I took a stroll because I got some spare time.Some unique tiles were exhibited here. Awaji Island is also famous for producing tiles.

Then I went to the ryokan’s public hot spring bath. While my room’s private open-air bath was tempting, the large public bath which offers a feeling of freedom is a must-try spot.

I had dinner at the restaurant in a romantic atmosphere.

Fresh sashimi served with beautiful setout

It was a fancy dinner which also included Awaji Beef steak.

When I returned to my room, I discovered that the garden had been brightly lit. It’s really sweet!

For prices and reservation of Awaji Hamarikyu, please go to this page.

Go on to “Part 3” >>

List of Ryokans in Awaji Island (Sumoto) Onsen

Hidden Hot Spring Resort Near Osaka – A Travelogue of The Awaji Island Onsen

Part 1 (first day)
Part 2 (second day)
Part 3 (Third day)