The Naruto Whirlpools form in the Naruto Strait between Tokushima and Awaji Island, where powerful tidal currents create some of the world's largest whirlpools, at times up to about 20 meters across. The Uzu-no-Michi is an enclosed 450-meter walkway built beneath the Onaruto Bridge, letting you look straight down at the whirlpools through glass floor panels from 45 meters above the sea. Because the whirlpools only appear strongly around the fastest part of each tide, checking the daily tide table before you go is essential.
A roughly 450-meter walkway under the Onaruto Bridge, 45 meters above the sea
Four glass floor panels that let you peer straight down at the whirlpools below
Whirlpools are largest during spring tides in spring (late Mar-Apr) and autumn (late Sep-Oct), up to about 20 m in diameter
Two ways to view: the Uzu-no-Michi (from above) or a sightseeing boat that gets right up close (adult approx. 2,000 yen)
The round trip takes about 30 minutes, with rest areas every 100 m so you can go at your own pace
Good to know
SeasonThe whirlpools are not visible all the time. They appear strongly only around each high and low tide (roughly 2 hours either side during spring tides), so check the official tide table for that day's peak-viewing window and time your visit accordingly.
SafetyThe glass floor shows the sea 45 meters straight down, which can be unsettling if you fear heights. The walkway is fenced on both sides but open to the elements, so strong winds can be felt strongly.
RulesThe walkway may close temporarily in bad weather (strong wind, typhoons), and it has regular closures on the 2nd Monday of March, June, September and December. Check the official site for operating status before you go.
MannersDuring peak-viewing windows or when sightseeing boats arrive, the Uzu-no-Michi can get crowded. Don't block the passage by filming over the glass floor for long periods; take your photos and keep moving.
Practical info
Confirm current admission, hours and closing days (for reference: adult approx. 510 yen; hours vary by season, roughly summer 9:00-18:00 / winter 9:00-17:00, with peak periods 8:00-19:00). By car it's about 5 minutes from Naruto-kita IC on the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway; by public transport, take a local bus from JR Tokushima or JR Naruto Station to Naruto Park, then about a 5-minute walk. Buying an e-ticket in advance on the official website lets you enter without waiting in line.
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