A trip to rediscover Sydney from a local perspective, with a mixture of nature and art

Experience contemporary Aboriginal art in the legendary Blue Mountains

Waradah Aboriginal Centre

If you visit Sydney, the first place you should visit is the Blue Mountains, a national park designated as a World Heritage Site. It is a popular day trip destination for tourists from the city, but it is also a casual picnic spot for locals on the weekend.

The biggest attraction of the Blue Mountains is the three huge rocks "Three Sisters" that stand in the middle of nature. Legend has it that these rocks are three beautiful sisters of the indigenous Aboriginal people who live in this area, who were transformed by magic long ago.

Near the Three Sisters, where the legend still lives on, you can experience Aboriginal culture at the Waradah Aboriginal Centre. In addition to a gallery displaying works by contemporary Aboriginal artists, you can also watch traditional dance performances. We recommend finding your favorite works in the gallery, or looking for souvenirs with Aboriginal art motifs in the attached shop.

Also, on the way from central Sydney to the Blue Mountains, there is a natural zoo called "Featherdale Wildlife Park" where you can see animals such as koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies. If you have time, why not stop by here as well?

See the Sydney cityscape from the water and spend some luxurious time on a hidden beach

Sydney Harbour Kayaks

Sydney is one of the three most beautiful harbor cities in the world, and is also known as a mecca for surf and beach culture. If you want to experience living like a local, where marine sports are part of your lifestyle, we recommend sea kayaking. Kayaking is a popular activity among local families, as it allows you to enjoy beautiful scenery and also provides exercise.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, paddle out of the shallows of a calm cove in a kayak and you'll find yourself in another world. Relaxing on a small, deserted beach or gazing at the skyscrapers of the city as you float on the water is a truly luxurious experience. Seeing Sydney from the water has a different charm than walking around the city, and is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Kayaks can be rented by the hour, but we recommend a guided tour so that even first-timers can feel at ease.

Enjoy a drink on the terrace and feel the sea breeze. A local pub with excellent food and drinks.

The Tilbury Hotel

There is a pub called "The Tilbury Hotel" quietly standing in a residential area in the Woolloomooloo district, east of central Sydney. It is located right next to the harbor known as Garden Island, and the pleasant sea breeze that flows into the courtyard and deck makes this a very popular restaurant. It is one of the best places to spend time with friendly Sydneysiders and feel like a local.

It's open from morning to night, so it's perfect for lunch under the dappled sunlight, or for dinner while enjoying the sunset. It's a convenient restaurant, whether you want to have a drink on the terrace in front of the restaurant or dine on hearty food. It's within walking distance of the Royal Botanical Gardens, so why not pop in during the summertime?

One of the best scenic spots in Sydney. The contrast between the South Pacific Ocean and the skyscrapers from the observation deck.

North Head Lookout

"North Head" is one of the most spectacular spots where you can see the cliffs that drop into the South Pacific Ocean and the buildings of Sydney. This area is designated as part of Sydney Harbour National Park, so it is rich in nature.

North Head has two observation decks: Fairfax Lookout, which offers a great view of Sydney, and Artillery Lookout, which offers a view of the cliffs at the eastern end of the Australian continent. We recommend walking the circular trail that connects the two. From spring to summer, various species of wildflowers (wildflowers native to Australia) bloom in full bloom, allowing you to feel close to Sydney's nature.

The observation deck is easily accessible by bus. Get off at the "Old Quarantine" stop and walk for about 20 minutes to the Fairfax Lookout, so prepare a picnic or go trekking before heading out.

Beautiful ocean and Aboriginal remains. Walk along hiking trails popular with locals.

Sydney Harbour Coastal Walk - Manly to Spit Bridge Walk

Sydney Harbour Coastal Walk Manly to Spit Bridge Walk

The area along Sydney Harbour is home to such a rich ecosystem that it has been designated as the Sydney Harbour National Park. The Sydney Harbour Coastal Walk is a promenade where you can easily enjoy this natural environment. It is popular among locals as a place for daily walks and exercise.

The most varied of these is the walking course that connects Manly to Spit Bridge. The pleasant promenade along the bay is about 20km long. It's a great spot for tourists to see not only the beautiful nature, but also the remains of the Aboriginal people who once lived here.

Along the way, you will come across rock art carved by the Aborigines, caves they used to shelter from the wind and rain and to sleep, and coves where they set traps to catch fish. You may also spot rare wildflowers and a large lizard that looks like a dinosaur! You will surely be amazed by the Aboriginal ruins and abundant nature that remain so close to the city.

*This course is about 12 km long and has been developed so that an adult can walk it in about 5 hours. It is OK for children, but it is difficult for wheelchair users to get around as there are many ups and downs, stairs, and narrow areas.

JAL Pack lets you travel to Australia's popular city of Sydney at a great price