Naruto Whirlpools

Background

The Naruto Whirlpools form in the Naruto Strait off Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture, with Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture on the far shore. The main viewing spots are Naruto Park and the Uzu no Michi walkway under the Onaruto Bridge. The Naruto Strait is said to be one of the world's three great tidal currents. The whirlpools constantly change shape; as many as 7 can appear at once in a row, and a single whirlpool usually lasts 20 to 30 seconds. The tides on the Seto Inland Sea side and the Kii Channel side rise and fall out of step; at spring tides the difference in sea level between the two sides can reach about 2 meters, and the water rushes through the strait at up to about 20 km per hour. Together with the shape of the seabed and coastline, this creates the whirlpools. Accounts of their diameter differ; Awaji Island tourism sources say they reach about 30 meters at spring tides, the largest in the world. From the Edo period on, ukiyo-e artists such as Utagawa Hiroshige depicted the Naruto whirlpools. Hyogo and Tokushima prefectures are carrying out surveys and publicity related to a World Heritage nomination.

Local customs

• Walk the Uzu no Michi walkway under the Onaruto Bridge and look down at the whirlpools through the glass floor
• take a sightseeing boat from the Naruto side or the Awaji Island side to watch whirlpools form and vanish up close
• visit the whirlpool science exhibits at Naruto Park and the Uzu no Oka Onaruto Bridge Memorial Hall to learn how they form.

Travel tips

• Whirlpool size changes with the tides. They can be seen all year and are strongest at spring tides in spring and autumn and around the new and full moon
• the times around high and low tide are best for viewing, so check the official tide tables. Check the official sites for boat and walkway fees. The wind at sea is strong, so bring windproof clothing suited to the season.
• Take the JR Naruto Line to Naruto Station, then a bus to the Naruto Park area
• by car, use the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway. Sightseeing boats leave from both the Naruto side and the Awaji Island side, so confirm your departure point before you go. Summer sun is strong
• winter brings fewer visitors and a cold sea wind.