Things To Do
in Awara
Awara is a picturesque city located in Fukui Prefecture, Japan. Known for its beautiful natural landscapes, Awara is particularly famous for its hot springs, which attract visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The city is also home to cultural attractions such as museums and temples, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's rich history and heritage.
With its tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Awara is an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing soak in one of Awara's famous hot springs. After that, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local ryokan.
Visit the Awara Onsen Station to admire its picturesque architecture. Take a stroll through the nearby parks and gardens to enjoy the natural beauty.
Indulge in a traditional kaiseki dinner at a ryokan. Capture the glowing sunset over the hills as you unwind after a busy day.
Visit the Awara Onsen Cultural Museum to learn about the region's history and hot spring culture. Take time to appreciate the art and artifacts on display.
Head to the surrounding areas for a scenic hike in the nearby mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.
Return to Awara for a leisurely evening stroll along the hot spring streets. Treat yourself to a refreshing dessert at a local café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful hot springs and natural scenery.
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Less crowded compared to larger tourist destinations.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
- Friendly local community with a welcoming atmosphere.
- Limited transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options.
- Can be less accessible for international travelers.
- Weather can be harsh in winter months.
- Economic opportunities may be limited for newcomers.
Best Activities in Awara
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the Kutaniyaki Art Museum to explore the traditional Japanese porcelain art and enjoy the beautiful surrounding garden.
Relax and rejuvenate in the famous hot springs of Awara. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits while surrounded by scenic natural beauty.
Take a visit to Eiheiji Temple, a serene and historic Buddhist temple complex nestled in the mountains, offering a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Awara with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Awara
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the surrounding area including Awara and the Sea of Japan
Known for its picturesque landscapes, seasonal flowers, and traditional tea houses
Scenic temple complex nestled in the mountains, perfect for photography and serene views
Food in Awara
Awara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Echizen crab, also known as Echizen-gani, is a highly-prized local delicacy. It is best enjoyed fresh and is renowned for its sweet, delicate flavor. For a quintessential Echizen crab experience, head to local seafood markets and specialty restaurants along the coast.
Must-Try!
Sauce Katsu Don is a popular local comfort food consisting of crispy breaded pork cutlet topped with a savory sauce and served over a bed of rice. This comforting dish can be savored at traditional eateries and casual dining spots throughout Awara.
Awara Onsen Manju are delectable steamed buns with various fillings such as red bean paste or local flavors like yuzu citrus. These can be found in specialty confectionery shops and at Onsen resorts in the region.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Awara better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Awara Morning Market is a bustling hub of culinary delights where visitors can immerse themselves in the local food scene. It offers an array of fresh produce, seafood, snacks, and street food, providing an authentic glimpse into the region's gastronomic culture.
Yunokuni no Mori is a charming village with a variety of food stalls and vendors offering an assortment of local street food, allowing visitors to sample and savor a wide range of traditional snacks and bites while exploring the area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Awara, Japan, it is important to show respect for elders through polite language and gestures, as well as deference to their opinions and decisions.
Proper greetings, such as bowing and using appropriate honorifics, are essential in Awara, Japan, to show respect and acknowledge social hierarchy.
Being on time for appointments and meetings is highly valued in Awara, Japan, as it demonstrates respect for others' time and schedules.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Awara with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Awara
Ensure a smooth experience
In Awara, Japan, tipping is generally not practiced and can even be considered rude. It is not customary to leave a tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
Payment in Awara, Japan is predominantly made in cash, although credit cards are becoming more widely accepted in larger establishments. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash for smaller businesses and establishments that may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossom viewing and pleasant weather
Expect warm weather and outdoor festivals and events
Ideal for colorful foliage and outdoor activities
Great for snow activities and enjoying hot springs
Awara at Night
Hiking in Awara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and hot spring areas, perfect for a day hike.
Located nearby, this national park features beautiful coastal views and various hiking routes suitable for all skill levels.
A prominent peak in the region, Mount Hakusan offers challenging hikes with rewarding panoramic views at the summit.
This mountain features a variety of trails with different levels of difficulty, surrounded by lush forests and wildlife.
While primarily an orchard, it provides scenic walking paths and hiking opportunities with beautiful landscapes.
Aiports
How to reach Awara by plane.
Located in Narita, Chiba, about 60 kilometers east of Tokyo. It serves as a major international gateway for flights to and from Japan.
Situated on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, this airport is approximately 50 kilometers from Osaka and serves the Kansai region.
Located on an artificial island in Ise Bay, about 35 kilometers south of Nagoya. It serves the Chubu region of Japan.
Located in Tokyo, this airport is primarily used for domestic flights but also handles a significant number of international flights.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, it primarily serves domestic flights but is located close to the city of Osaka, about 50 kilometers from Awara.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, primarily ethnic Japanese with deep cultural roots in the region.
A smaller demographic group with historical ties to Japan, particularly in urban areas.
A growing community, including both long-term residents and more recent immigrants.
An emerging demographic, particularly in the workforce sector, contributing to the local economy.
Includes various nationalities from Southeast Asia and South Asia, contributing to cultural diversity.
A small group of expatriates from Western countries, often involved in business or teaching.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Awara, with numerous local teams and a strong following among the community.
Soccer has gained significant popularity, especially among the youth, with many local leagues and school teams participating.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local clubs, making it a popular sport in both recreational and competitive settings.
As a traditional Japanese sport, sumo remains a significant cultural element, with local events and demonstrations being held.
Table tennis, or ping pong, enjoys popularity in schools and community centers, with many people enjoying it as a recreational sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Awara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in Awara offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and fresh salads. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when dining out to ensure a satisfying culinary experience.
Those with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free options in select eateries, with rice-based dishes and certain noodle varieties that are free from gluten. It's advisable to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods to accommodate gluten-free dietary needs.