See the world’s largest whirlpools up-close with this spectacular cruising experience
The dynamic massive whirlpools forming in spring and autumn are not to be missed!
The Naruto Channel stretches beneath the Onaruto Bridge connecting Awaji Island with Shikoku. Renowned for its rough tidal currents, which are counted among the three preeminent tidal currents in the world, this area is famous for the whirlpools forming at sea level when these tidal currents combine with the unique topography of the area. In particular, the massive whirlpools seen during the spring and autumn tides measure some 20 meters in diameter, making them some of the largest in the world. This mysterious natural phenomenon is something that can only be seen here.
The Uzushio Cruise is your chance to experience these awe-inspiring whirlpools up close. This cruise has two ships in service, the Kanrin Maru, a restoration of the first steam sailing ship in Japan to successfully cross the Pacific Ocean, and the Nippon Maru, a pleasure cruiser sailing ship that casts a beautiful reflection of its pure white hull against the blue sea. Both ships are spacious and comfortable with little sway and stable sailing, ideal for both children and the elderly alike. This cruise is filled with captivating scenery, including thrilling up-close views of the sea surface swirling to form whirlpools, to breathtaking views of the Onaruto Bridge and Fukura Port from the sea. This 60 minute cruise offers spectacular views, and is not to be missed! When alighting at Fukura Port, you will be greeted with an array of restaurants, stores, footbaths, and other facilities.
- Uzushio Dome Nanairo-kan, Fukurako, Minami-Awaji-shi, Hyogo 656-0501 Japan
- [Fukura Port Terminal]
• About 90 minutes by express bus (heading to Fukura) from JR Sannomiya Station, immediately accessible once getting off at the last bus stop
• About 15 minutes from the Seidan-Mihara IC on the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway via Prefectural Route 31 or National Route 28
[Ibi Port Terminal]
• 1 hour by express bus (heading to Fukura) from Expressway Maiko. About 10 minute on foot after getting off at the Awajishima-minami Interchange Bus Stop
• About 6 minutes from Awajishima minami IC on the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway via Prefectural Route 25