Naruto Whirlpools

Where the tidal surge between the Pacific and Seto Inland Sea creates whirlpools up to 30m in diameter — among the world's three largest, churning twice daily like clockwork. The walkway above them is glass.

Location

Why Visit

• 1

  Peak whirlpools occur at spring tide — check exact timing online before visiting

• 2

  The Uzu no Michi glass walkway gives a straight-down view into the churning water

• 3

  Boat tours under the bridge during peak flow get covered in spray

Local Tips

The whirlpools reach 20m in diameter during the largest tides — check the tide table on the official site (Uzushio timing). The glass-bottomed boat gives the most dramatic close-up view. The Onaruto Bridge walkway (Uzu no Michi) gives a vertigo-inducing view straight down at the whirlpools through glass panels. Arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled peak tidal effect.