Naruto Whirlpools

The Naruto Whirlpools (鳴門の渦潮, Naruto no Uzushio) are one of Japan’s most captivating natural spectacles, located where the Seto Inland Sea meets the Pacific Ocean at the Naruto Strait along the Shikoku coast. Formed by dramatic tidal currents that rush through the narrow strait, these powerful whirlpools appear roughly every six hours, peaking in size and intensity during spring tides when the sun, moon, and earth align. On especially good days, some whirlpools can reach up to 20 meters in diameter, swirling and churning in mesmerizing patterns. The timing and magnitude of the whirlpools vary with the tides, so checking the daily schedule in advance is essential for the best viewing experience.

Travelers eager to witness the whirlpools up close have several exciting options. Sightseeing cruise boats, such as the smaller vessels from Uzushio Kisen and the larger Uzushio Kankosen boats equipped with glass-bottom floors, allow visitors to glide right alongside these swirling currents for a thrilling and immersive view. For panoramic vistas from above, the “Wonder Naruto” tour boat offers sweeping perspectives from its upper deck, while those preferring to stay on land can stroll the Uzu no Michi walkway beneath the Onaruto Bridge, featuring glass floor panels that look directly down on the whirlpools below. Naruto Park provides additional attractions, including scenic walking trails, observatories like Senjojiki, and the Onaruto Bridge Museum, where guests can learn about the area’s history and the unique natural forces that create the Naruto Whirlpools.