Naruto Whirlpools

Landmark

Part of Awaji Island

Prefecture

Hyogo

Type

Landmark

N/A

1 review

¥500

Entry Fee

Restaurant Cafe

About This Destination

Among the world's largest tidal whirlpools, formed in the Naruto Strait between Awaji Island and Shikoku. Best viewed from sightseeing boats or the Uzu-no-Michi walkway under the Onaruto Bridge.

The Naruto Whirlpools are one of the three largest tidal whirlpool phenomena in the world, occurring in the Naruto Strait between the southern tip of Awaji Island and Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku. The whirlpools are created by the massive tidal flows between the Pacific Ocean and the Seto Inland Sea, with water level differences of up to 1.5 meters generating whirlpools that can reach 20 meters in diameter during spring tides. The best viewing times change daily with the tides, so checking a tide schedule before visiting is essential. There are two main ways to experience the whirlpools: sightseeing boats that cruise directly into the swirling waters (departing from Fukura Port on the Awaji side), and the Uzu-no-Michi walkway — a 450-meter enclosed promenade under the Onaruto Bridge with glass-floored observation points 45 meters above the strait. The whirlpools are most spectacular during the spring tides (around new and full moons) in spring and autumn, when tidal ranges peak around the equinoxes.

Location

Prefecture: Hyogo

Address: Minamiawaji, Hyogo, Japan

Nearest Station: Fukura Bus Stop

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Accepted

Food Options: Fukura Port area has several seafood restaurants. The Uzu-no-Michi visitor center has a cafe. Fresh shirasu (whitebait) is a local specialty.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to see the Naruto Whirlpools?

The best viewing times change daily with the tides. Check a tide schedule before visiting. Whirlpools are most spectacular during spring tides (around new and full moons) in spring and autumn, when tidal ranges peak around the equinoxes — the largest can reach 20 meters in diameter.

How can I view the Naruto Whirlpools?

Two main options: sightseeing boats from Fukura Port that cruise directly into the whirlpools, or the Uzu-no-Michi walkway under the Onaruto Bridge with glass-floored observation points 45 meters above the water.

How much does it cost to see the Naruto Whirlpools?

The Uzu-no-Michi walkway costs 500 yen for adults. Sightseeing boat cruises have separate fees (around 2,000-2,500 yen for adults). Credit cards are accepted.

What local food should I try near the Naruto Whirlpools?

Fresh shirasu (whitebait) is the local specialty — try it raw (nama-shirasu) when in season. The Fukura Port area has several seafood restaurants, and the Uzu-no-Michi visitor center has a cafe.