The Naruto Whirlpools (鳴門の渦潮, Naruto no Uzushio) are powerful tidal whirlpools that form in the Naruto Strait, a narrow channel between Awaji Island and Shikoku in Japan. These whirlpools are famous for their impressive size and strength, attracting many tourists from all over the world.
The whirlpools are caused by the massive volume of water moving between the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean through the Naruto Strait. Due to the narrow passage and differences in tidal levels between the two seas, water rushes through at speeds of up to 20 km/h (12 mph), creating vortexes as currents collide. These whirlpools can reach up to 20 meters (66 feet) in diameter during peak tides.
The whirlpools are strongest twice a day during high and low tide. The best viewing times change daily depending on the tide schedule. The largest whirlpools appear in spring and autumn, especially during the spring and autumn equinoxes when tidal differences are at their peak.
How to See the Naruto Whirlpools
- Uzunomichi Walkway (Naruto Whirlpools Observatory) – A glass-floored observation walkway on the Naruto Bridge lets visitors see the whirlpools from above through a glass floor and the open-air viewing area.
- Whirlpool Sightseeing Boats – Boats depart from both Naruto City and Awaji Island to take visitors as close to the whirlpools as possible.
- Onaruto Bridge – Driving or walking across the bridge provides a scenic view of the swirling currents below.
- 🌊 The Naruto Whirlpools form in the Naruto Strait, between Awaji Island and Shikoku, Japan.
- 🌐 They attract tourists from around the world due to their impressive size and strength.
- 🌊 Caused by water moving between the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
- 🌀 Water moves through the narrow channel at speeds up to 20 km/h (12 mph), creating vortexes.
- 📏 The whirlpools can reach up to 20 meters (66 feet) in diameter during peak tides.
- ⏰ The whirlpools are strongest twice a day during high and low tides.
- 🚢Whirlpool Sightseeing Boats depart from both Naruto City and Awaji Island to provide the closest view possible
- 🌸 The largest whirlpools occur in spring and autumn, especially during the equinoxes.
- 👀 Visitors can view the whirlpools from the Uzunomichi Walkway (Naruto Bridge Observatory) with a glass floor.
Explore Tokushima
Kazurabashi Bridge
Old vine bridge cross a river
Naruto Whirlpools
Natural Whirlpools in the Naruto Strait
Hours and Admission (Uzunomichi Walkway Observation)
- Hours (March - September): 9:00am - 6:00pm (Last Entry at 5:30pm)
- Hours (October to February): 9:00am to 5:00pm (Last Entry at 4:30pm)
- 510 JPY
- Average Time Spent: 30 Minutes
- Official Website
Accessing the Naruto Whirlpools
The Naruto Strait is located in the northeastmost point in Tokushima Prefecture, located between Shikoku and Awaji Island. The best views of the Naruto Whirlpools can be seen from the Onaruto Bridge, the Uzunomich Walkway, or a whirlpool sightseeing boat.
Where to stay nearby
AoAwo Naruto Resort
AoAwo Naruto Resort is a seaside hotel in Tokushima, Japan, offering ocean views, onsen, local cuisine, and easy access to the Naruto whirlpools.
Resort Hotel Moana Coast
Adult-only resort with views looking out towards the Naruto Strait, or relaxing garden views. Enjoy modern, spacious rooms with remarkable views.
Naruto Kaigetsu
The Naruto Kaigetsu offering comfortable and economic rooms with views looking out towards the the Naruto Strait and the Onaruto Bridge.
Explore more in Tokushima Prefecture
Kazurabashi Bridge
Old vine bridge cross a river
Naruto Whirlpools
Natural Whirlpools in the Naruto Strait