Take a Whirlpool Walk on the Wild Side

Explore the mysteries of Japan’s fastest currents and some of the biggest eddies in the world

Many of the mysteries of the ocean are deep and unknown, but the power of nature is on full display at Uzu no Michi. This glass-bottomed walkway under the Onaruto Bridge connecting Shikoku with Awaji Island, all within Setonaikai National Park, offers the chance to observe a remarkable natural marine phenomenon with your own eyes.

The waters of the Seto Inland Sea and Kii Channel meet at this point, forming huge whirlpools—thought to be among the largest in the world—primarily in the spring and autumn.
Timing is key to observing this phenomenon, so a color-coded daily viewing schedule is provided on the Onaruto Bridge website (link below). This informs visitors of the peak times to watch the currents flowing beneath their feet form into uzu, or whirlpools, of varying sizes and speeds. During spring tides (although they don’t just occur in Spring), also known as King Tides, these eddies can reach speeds of over 20 km/h, the fastest in Japan and among the top four in the world in terms of speed. These whirlpools can become as large as 20 meters in diameter, making them some of the largest eddies to be found anywhere.

Next to the Uzu no Michi walkway, the Eddy Memorial Hall highlights not only this natural phenomenon, but also the unique culture of Shikoku, including its famous folk dances. Joint tickets for both are available, as are English-speaking staff, signage, explanation panels, and pamphlets. From children to adults, this destination is ideal for travelers interested in this amazing natural phenomenon and the fascinating culture of the region.

Access: From Kansai International Airport, take the airport limousine bus to Kobe Sannomiya Station (one hour five minutes), then take the JR highway bus to the Naruto Koenguchi (Park Entry) stop (about one hour 20 minutes).

From Shin-Osaka Station, take a rapid train to Sannomiya Station (about 35 minutes), then take the JR highway bus to the Naruto Koenguchi (Park Entry) stop (about one hour 20 minutes).