Monster Hunter Attraction Returns to Awaji Island for a Winter Tourism Push

Published on December 11, 2025

A Monster Hunter-themed attraction will make a temporary comeback on Awaji Island this winter. The experience, previously held at Nijigen no Mori, will reopen for a limited period between December 26, 2025, and January 12, 2026. The revival is expected to draw travelers seeking interactive activities during the year-end holidays. The attraction ended on November 3, 2025, but strong interest drove its return.

Winter Event Structure and Visitor Activities

The winter edition will bring back the same large outdoor layout used in the earlier run. Guests will enter the grounds of Nijigen no Mori and move through a field-style activity where item collection is essential. These collected items will support the next stage, where visitors face large monsters within a controlled setting. Palico companions remain part of the structured experience.

All major monsters from the previous season will reappear. The lineup will again include Rathalos, Zinogre, Mizutsune, and Nergigante. This return gives participants another opportunity to attempt challenges missed or unfinished in the earlier phase. It also reopens access for travelers who could not join before due to Hunter Rank requirements.

The attraction will operate daily from 10:00 to 19:00. Hours may shift based on seasonal conditions, but the core schedule remains fixed across the event period. The experience will be located inside Hyogo Prefectural Awaji Island Park, specifically at 2425-2 Kusumoto in Awaji City.

Food offerings will be reinstated. Collaboration dishes will be themed to match the atmosphere of the game world. Limited-edition merchandise will also be available, with an exclusive shop set to reopen inside the venue. A crossover program with the existing Godzilla Interception Operation will return as part of the event design.

Campaigns Designed to Support Returning and New Travelers

Two limited campaigns will be held through the event period. These programs aim to support visitors who previously participated and those attempting the attraction for the first time.

The One More Hunt Campaign will allow returning guests to access one extra hunt. This benefit applies when participants show a Hunter Certificate from an earlier visit. The extra hunt will be added to their purchased ticket.

The second program, the Pro Hunter Photo Campaign, will reward those who reach Hunter Rank 5 during this winter period. Eligible guests will receive a commemorative photo with a large monster at no additional cost. This photo is usually offered as a paid option. The campaign will run only within the official event dates.

Both initiatives are expected to encourage repeat travel. These incentives may also motivate longer stays on Awaji Island as travelers attempt to reach higher rankings or aim to maximize their hunt sessions.

Tourists Continue Seeking Interactive Holiday Experiences

Travel periods often bring demand for structured, story-driven attractions. This event’s format aligns with that trend, as visitors are given tasks, goals, and clear progression routes. Many travelers enjoy activities that combine exploration with simple physical engagement, especially when each step leads to a defined challenge.

Seasonal events can also influence travel choices. A short operating window often increases urgency, especially during holiday breaks when groups plan trips with friends. Travelers also tend to prefer destinations offering both activities and themed services such as food and merchandise. The attraction’s familiar game-based structure may appeal to guests looking for shared adventure within a limited schedule.

The timing may also support group travel, as many people move during the year-end and New Year holidays. Short-term events can shape itineraries when tourists want memorable, compact experiences that fit within a day trip or a brief stay.

Event Details for Visiting Travelers

The winter revival will again center on two quests. Field Exploration serves as the first stage. Here, travelers gather items across the designated zone. These items then support Large Monster Battle, the second quest involving controlled encounters with the featured creatures. Both quests replicate actions inspired by the original game while remaining visitor-friendly.

Travelers will find collaboration meals inside the venue. These dishes aim to evoke the feel of the game’s world. Merchandise linked to the event will be sold in limited quantities. Many visitors may target exclusive items, as they are obtainable only during the winter period.

Transportation details are unchanged, as the venue sits within Hyogo Prefectural Awaji Island Park. Travelers planning a visit can center their schedule around the 10:00 to 19:00 operating window. The experience remains suitable for groups who prefer outdoor exploration with a defined narrative theme.

The event period extends from December 26, 2025, to January 12, 2026. The final day is a national holiday. This timeframe positions the attraction within one of Japan’s busiest travel seasons, giving visitors an additional activity option during holiday trips. All core elements from the earlier edition have been restored, maintaining continuity for returning guests.

Image Source: AI