About this location: Naruto Whirlpools
The Naruto Strait, between Tokushima and Awaji Island, is among the world's three largest tidal currents (max width 1.3 km). Spring and autumn spring tides produce whirlpools up to 20 m across — photograph from sightseeing boats or the Uzu-no-Michi walkway under the Onaruto Bridge.
Key features
- Whirlpools — over 20 m across, one of the world's three great tidal currents; largest 1–2 hours around high or low tide
- Sightseeing boat — departs from Naruto Sightseeing Port; a 30-minute cruise approaches the whirlpools at full intensity
- Uzu-no-Michi — a 450 m walkway under the Onaruto Bridge, 45 m above the strait, with glass floors offering direct views of the whirlpools
- Senjojiki Observatory and Naruto Park — overlooks on the Tokushima side; cherry blossoms with the strait make a stunning spring scene
- Michi-no-Eki Uzushio (Awaji side) — sweeping view of the bridge and strait; the sunset moment is unforgettable
