Hyogo Prefecture: Awajishima Park – Nijigen No Mori

Awaji Island (Awajishima) is located in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. The place is recommended for road-trip, nature sightseeing, and relaxation. It is one of the unusual tourist destinations due to accessibility. 

One of the recommended experiences in and around Awaji Island is the Nijigen No Mori (Awaji Island Anime Park). This park immerses you into the world of iconic Japanese anime - Naruto. Adults may find the place as a children's park, but for anime and manga fans, this is a place to be. The park offers fun and interactive ninja missions with a reward once accomplished.

Here is the video clip of our tripventure to Awajishima Park.

Awajishima seems to be not commonplace for some but I know that Japan is working on developing the place to attract more tourists. In fact, they are building a life-size Godzilla and it will be available for viewing in the summer of 2020, 

To get to the Awaji Island, you will need to ride a bus (Kakehashi Naruto Osaka bus), from JR Namba Station, that will cross the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge (world's longest suspension bridge).

The bus will drop you right at the entrance of Awaji Island Park. 

Near the bus stop has a huge map guide to assist you in locating your destination. You will also have an overlooking view of the Akashi-Kaikyo bridge. 
There are signs of direction to reach the Nijigen No Mori. An information center is available in case you need additional information about the place. 
You have the option to ride a small bus going to Nijigen No Mori. However, I recommend taking a walk so you could see the beauty of the island's park. 
As you enter the Shinobi-Zato gate, you will be greeted by the Konoha team. 

There is an admission fee of 3,300 yen for adults, 18,800 yen for middle and high school students, to enter the Shinobi-Zato. If you have watched my video, a mission scroll will be given to you which contains shinobi missions. Some of the missions require physical and intellectual activities. 

At the center of the park stands the Konoha Hokage mountain. Walking around will give you memories of the Naruto anime. 
The Akatsuki team

Gaara's gourd bag and One tail's fingers.

Sai Yamanaka's drawings
Orochimaru's snake

Kurama! The Nine Tail fox!

Jiraiya and the Sage Training
And, Naruto's favorite ramen.

By the way, you will also see a lot of Shinchans as you walk around the park. And yes, he is wearing a short this time. :))

Vending machines are everywhere. If you need some rest, grab and eat a Glico's matcha ice cream while enjoying the park's view. 
I am looking forward to the future development of Awajishima and hopefully, the island will be known to the tourists (for the benefit of the local people in Awajishima). And yes, the life-size Godzilla this summer 2020 looks promising. 

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