To see the whirlpools of the Naruto Strait in Tokushima, there are two methods. The first is to take a sightseeing boat. The second method is to observe from above the strait, which means going to the “Uzunomichi” and looking down at the whirlpools! Uzunomichi is a pedestrian walkway located under the Great Naruto Bridge. The walkway is about 45 meters above sea level and is partially made of transparent reinforced glass, allowing for a clear view of the whirlpools.
However, before heading to the Uzunomichi, you can first visit the Senjojiki Observation Deck to catch a glimpse of the scenery of the Great Naruto Bridge. However, it’s difficult to see the whirlpools with the naked eye from here. Fortunately, there are coin-operated telescopes available, so you can use them to see the Naruto Strait.
the Senjojiki is located inside Naruto Park, so you can easily come here by taking a bus from Tokushima.
You can see the beautiful Great Naruto Bridge here.
When looking at the sea level from here, there is a different feeling.
Okay, let’s take a walk on the Whirlpool Path. Please note that it’s important to choose the right time to observe the whirlpool. Generally, it’s best to go during high tide (when the tide is highest) or low tide (when the tide is lowest).
Before entering, there was a brief introduction about the trail of the magnificent Naruto Bridge.
There is also an explanation here about the reasons for the formation of whirlpools and a brief mention of the best time to observe them.
When you come here, of course, you need to buy a ticket to enter. After paying ￥500 per person, you can directly see the structure of the bridge.
The three wires above were supposedly intended for the passage of trams, hence they were pre-installed. However, due to insufficient funds, the plan for trams to pass through was eventually canceled.
This trail is approximately 450 meters long. While walking on the trail, you may occasionally see sections with hollowed-out floors. However, these areas are covered with reinforced glass, allowing visitors to step on it and experience the sensation of being suspended in the air. This reinforced glass can withstand the weight of one ton. However, please refrain from jumping on it to prevent accidents.
I’m not sure what this entire aquaculture next to it is.
On this window, there is also an introduction to the distant island called Tobishima. And in front of it is the Pacific Ocean. The glass wall also has explanations, which is quite thoughtful.
Have you seen the inverted triangle-shaped bracket? This is used for thermal expansion and contraction buffering…
Uzunomichi is probably at a depth of 45 meters above sea level.
Finally saw the whirlpool. However, it doesn’t seem as beautiful as it was seen on the boat. Whirlpools are greatly influenced by tides. To see large and beautiful whirlpools, it is necessary to choose a time during high tide and also select a time when the tide is receding, as it will be more impressive (due to the greater difference in water levels). For this part, you can directly refer to the recommended time on the official website, which is clear and easy to understand: click here to view.
Take a look at the surroundings, occasionally there will be whirlpools appearing.
This is probably the end of the road, you can turn back now. If you have a fear of heights, there’s no need to worry. Let me emphasize again, this glass is made of reinforced glass and can withstand a ton of weight. So, no need to worry!
On the way back, you can see simple explanations on the wall about the vortex and its connection to the full moon.
This is the trail, although it’s not wide, there’s no need to worry about it being too crowded.
Before leaving, take another look at the whirlpool!
Above is just a simple introduction to Uzunomichi~
For more information on transportation, attractions, and food recommendations in Tokushima Prefecture, please refer to the Shikoku page.
Uzunomichi (Official Website)
Ticket Prices: Adults ¥510, Middle and High School Students ¥410, Children (6-12 years old) ¥260, Free for children under 6 years old.
Opening Hours: March to September 09:00-18:00 (last entry at 17:30), October to February 09:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30)
Address: Naruto-cho, Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture (inside Naruto Park)
Transportation:
1. From Osaka: Take the express bus (Naruto-Tokushima-Osaka Line) from OCAT or Osaka (Hankyu Sanbancho) and get off at Naruto Park Exit. It’s a 3-minute walk from there.
2. From Kobe: Take the express bus (Tokushima-Kobe Line) from Kobe Sannomiya and get off at Naruto Park Exit. It’s a 3-minute walk from there. (You can check the bus route here)
3. From Naruto: Take the Tokushima bus from JR Naruto Station and get off at “Naruto Park”. It’s a 5-minute walk from there.
Map:
Reference:
Tokushima Bus: Fare Table and Route Map.
Tokushima Bus Timetable: Click here to search.
『Original Source：https://nicklee.tw/1214/』
