淡路島公園
This large, beautiful park is in the hills above Iwaya, and is accessible to visitors from both on and off the expressway. It’s a fabulous place for picnicking or hiking, and is great for those with children. The park spreads over several different hillsides, and includes everything from flower gardens, to scenic look-outs, to cherry blossoms, to hugely imaginative children’s play areas. It takes at least a couple of hours to wander the entire park.
Access is free. The park’s main entrance is a short walk from the Awaji IT bus stop, and about a 30 minute walk from the ferry terminal in Iwaya. The Highway Oasis is nearby.
Train buffs might be interested to find an old railway bridge inside the park. It’s a metal truss bridge, dating from the Taisho era, and is the oldest bridge of its kind in the prefecture. It was built for the long defunct Awaji railway, and eventually relocated to the park.
Recently, a number of commercial developments have been added at the park, along with many statues of anime figures. The developments are something of an eye sore, and can be a little noisy, but thankfully the park is large enough that you can get away from them if you prefer. The developments offer a variety of specific activities, which come with entrance fees.
Awaji Island 