Whirlpools

Uzushio

The Naruto Whirlpools (鳴門の渦潮) are a natural phenomenon occurring in the Naruto Strait, a narrow waterway that separates Naruto City in Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku Island from Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. The whirlpools are created by the powerful tidal currents in the strait, with a maximum speed of up to 20 kilometers per hour (12 mph). Some whirlpools can reach up to 20 meters (66 feet) in diameter, making them one of the largest and most famous whirlpools in the world.

Visitors to Naruto have several options to witness the Naruto Whirlpools. Boat tours offer an up-close and exciting experience, allowing visitors to see the whirlpools from different angles. These tours operate year-round, usually lasting around 30 minutes, and provide ample photo and video opportunities.

Another popular viewing spot is the Naruto Bridge, which spans the strait. The bridge has two observation decks, the Uzu no Michi walkway, a glass-floored promenade extending under the bridge, and the Eddy, an observation deck on the bridge’s lower level. Both locations offer panoramic views of the strait, the whirlpools, and the surrounding landscape.

The Naruto Whirlpools are a major tourist attraction in Japan, drawing visitors from all over the world. The whirlpools are most visible during spring and autumn tides, when the tidal currents are strongest. However, they can be observed throughout the year, and boat tours operate daily, weather permitting.

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Onaruto Bridge Uzu no Michi – Bridge Observation Deck

HoursSummer Season (March to September) / 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (entry until 5:30 PM)
Winter Season (October to February) / 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (entry until 4:30 PM)
Golden Week Holiday/Summer Holiday / 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (entry until 6:30 PM)
AdmissionAdults: 510 yen
Junior high school and high school students: 410 yen
Elementary school students: 260 yen
Phone+81 88-683-6262
AddressNaruto Koen, Naruto-cho, Naruto-shi, Tokushima, 772-0053, Japan
Official Websitehttps://www.uzunomichi.jp/lang_en/
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