An Interview with the Team of ‘’AoAwo Naruto Resort – Naruto’s Hidden Gem’’

Greetings everyone! Today let me introduce you to a dreamy resort in Naruto, Tokushima. AoAwo Naruto Resort isn’t just a resort, it’s a dream come true. Imagine waking up to ocean views, bathing in natural hot springs, and enjoying regional cuisine while gazing at the iconic Naruto Bridge. That’s what awaits you at this 4-star resort located in the heart of Setonaikai National Park.

So, let’s have a lovely chat with the team of AoAwo Naruto Resort and learn more about this captivating wonderland!

Hi! Can you please introduce yourself?

My name is Noriko Sugamura. I’ve been working as a public relations manager from Tokushima Prefecture for nearly 20 years now.

What would you like to tell our viewers about the resort? Can you please give an introduction to what you offer at AoAwo Naruto Resort to our international guests?

This resort hotel is nestled within the Seto Inland Sea National Park, offering breathtaking oceanfront views of the sunrise and the Moon Road from both our guest rooms and natural hot springs.

We also provide complimentary cake service for guests celebrating birthdays or other special occasions (a reservation is required). Additionally, guests staying multiple nights can take advantage of our complimentary services including lunch and tennis activities. Please feel free to ask about our vegan meal options as well.

What sets apart AoAwo Naruto Resort from other accommodations in the region?

Guests have the opportunity to immerse themselves in local activities right on the resort grounds.

From cruising in the Naruto Strait to fishing for Naruto sea bream, autumn sweet potato digging, early spring wakame seaweed harvesting, painting on Oidani pottery, and trying out indigo dyeing – there’s a diverse range of local programs to enjoy. Additionally, guests can experience nightly Awa Odori dance performances right here.

There are four natural hot springs available. During the summer season, guests can take advantage of outdoor pool facilities, beachside recreations like swimming, and various marine activities.

How many rooms do you have? Also, are there different types of rooms available?

We offer a total of 208 rooms, including 41 Japanese-style rooms and 167 Western-style rooms.

Some unique amenities and extras we also offer include vegan meal options upon request and a complimentary original Tenugui towel that guests receive as a gift.

You also have a few restaurants and cafes in the resort. Can you please tell us more about the food you serve and what people expect in all of them?

Our distinctive restaurants offer a taste of the rich flavors from Awa’s mountains and seas, featuring specialties like Naruto sea bream, locally-raised “Awaodori” chicken, Naruto wakame seaweed, and Awa vegetables.

At our local cuisine buffet “Awazanmai”, guests can enjoy our popular dishes such as freshly prepared sashimi, local Kyodo sushi, deep-fried tempura, Naruto sea bream shabu-shabu, and savory sea bream rice.

Additionally, we provide a variety of dining experiences including charcoal-grilled dishes, traditional Japanese kaiseki, and French cuisine. And don’t miss out on our café, where you can indulge in delightful local sweets crafted with ingredients like Naruto sweet potatoes.

Even if it is a charming area, Tokushima is not really known by foreign travelers. Why would you recommend people to visit? Any recommendations of things to do/eat/see around the resort?

Awa Odori: A representative festival of Tokushima Prefecture, famous nationwide. It is held annually in August, drawing participants and spectators from far and wide. You can also catch nightly performances of Awa Odori right here at AoAwo.

The beauty of Nature: Tokushima Prefecture boasts stunning natural landscapes, particularly in the Naruto area of the Seto Inland Sea National Park where AoAwo is nestled, and in the western region of Tokushima (the Iya Valley region). Tokushima City, the vibrant host of Awa Odori, also offers captivating riverside views.

Culinary Delights: Tokushima is known for its unique local delicacies like Tokushima ramen and Naruto sweet potatoes. Being located by the sea, fresh seafood is also a culinary highlight.

Tourist Destinations: From nature-rich destinations to historical landmarks, Tokushima Prefecture offers a wide range of places to go. Don’t miss the scenic Oboke and Koboke Gorges and the iconic Kazura Bridge in the Iya Valley.

Near the resort, you’ll discover the famous Naruto whirlpools and the esteemed “Otsuka International Art Museum.” This exceptional museum showcases approximately 1,000 renowned paintings from 26 countries, ranging from ancient murals to contemporary artworks, all reproduced in full size on ceramic panels using innovative technology.

There are also plenty of other tourist attractions including “Ryozenji Temple,” the inaugural stop of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, and more.

For dining options, our café serves up delicious ramen and burgers featuring the Naruto sea bream. Alternatively, at the nearby rest stop “Kurukuru Naruto,” you can indulge in a hearty Kaisendon (seafood bowl).

Regarding the hot springs, how many baths do you have? Is it possible for people to enjoy them even if they don’t stay at the hotel?

We provide four types of hot springs in total, comprising two outdoor baths and two panoramic baths. These hot springs are reserved exclusively for hotel guests.

In the end, is there something you would like to say to our readers?

Serving as Shikoku’s gateway, Naruto is a captivating destination that surpasses expectations.

Of particular renown are the aforementioned Naruto whirlpools, a natural phenomenon shaped by the intricate dance of lunar and solar gravitational forces alongside complex terrain. It’s worth noting that these whirlpools reach their peak size during spring and autumn, reportedly ranking among the largest in the world.

Please come experience the breathtaking scenery surrounded by nature at our AoAwo Naruto Resort.

Thank you so much for taking out your precious time for us and answering the questions! We appreciate your insights and we are glad you joined us for this interview.

Follow AoAwo Naruto Resort on:

Website: https://www.aoawo-naruto.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aoawo_naruto_resort/

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/AoAwoNaruto

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aoawonarutoresort

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aoawonarutoresort

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@aoawonarutoresort

Featured Photo Credit: AoAwa Naruto Resort

On a trip to Japan this Spring? Come join one of our Hanami tours for a truly authentic local experience!