Naruto Strait
Whirlpools on the Seto Inland Sea
Introduction
Located in japan, the Naruto Strait is a narrow body of water that connects the Seto Inland Sea with the Pacific Ocean. This strait is known for its powerful and fast-moving currents, which create a natural phenomenon called the Naruto Whirlpools. These whirlpools occur when the waters of the Seto Inland Sea collide with the opposing currents of the Pacific Ocean in the Kii Channel. The Naruto Whirlpools are a sight to behold and attract visitors from all over the world who come to witness this unique natural phenomenon.
Description of the Naruto Strait
The Naruto Strait is approximately 1.3 kilometers wide and is situated between Naruto in Tokushima Prefecture and Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture. The strait is animated by some of the fastest moving currents in the world, with speeds reaching up to 13-15 kilometers per hour. The narrow width of the strait and its underwater topography cause the tides between the Seto Inland Sea and the Kii Channel to vary by up to 1.5 meters. This variation in tides creates the perfect conditions for the formation of whirlpools.
Formation of the Naruto Whirlpools
The Naruto Whirlpools are formed when the waters of the Seto Inland Sea, which flow through the Naruto Strait, collide with the opposing currents of the Pacific Ocean in the Kii Channel. This collision creates powerful eddies and swirling currents that result in the formation of whirlpools. The whirlpools can reach up to 20 meters in diameter and are a mesmerizing sight to behold. The best time to see the whirlpools is during low tide in spring and autumn when the currents are strongest.
Viewing the Naruto Whirlpools
There are several ways to view the Naruto Whirlpools. One of the most popular options is to watch them from the Onaruto Bridge, which spans the Naruto Strait. The bridge provides a panoramic view of the whirlpools and is a popular spot for visitors to observe this natural phenomenon. Another option is to take a sightseeing boat and get up close to the whirlpools. Some of these boats even have glass panels in the hull below the water, allowing passengers to see the whirlpools from a unique underwater perspective.
For those who prefer a bird’s-eye view, the Uzu-no-Michi Walkway is a must-visit. This walkway is built on the lower deck of the Onaruto Bridge and has sturdy glass floor panels that allow visitors to watch the whirlpools form and spin beneath their feet. Suspended 45 meters above the sea, the walkway offers a spectacular view of the whirlpools and the surrounding coastal scenery.
Other Attractions in the Area
In addition to the Naruto Whirlpools, there are several other attractions in the area that are worth visiting. One of these is the Senjojiki Observatory, which offers a great vantage point to admire the Naruto Bridge and the natural scenery surrounding the Naruto Strait. The observatory is a great place to relax and enjoy the view, and it also has a souvenir shop where visitors can find unique gifts and mementos.
For those interested in history and culture, the Ryozenji Temple is a must-visit. This historic temple is the first destination on a Buddhist pilgrimage and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, participate in Buddhist rituals, and learn about the history and significance of the temple.
Another attraction in the area is the Otsuka Museum of Art, which is located near the Naruto Strait. This museum is home to Japan’s largest exhibition space and features over 1,000 reproductions of historical masterpieces. From Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel to Picasso’s Guernica, the museum showcases a wide range of artworks from different periods and styles. The reproductions are executed on ceramic board, ensuring that they resist the wear and fade of time.
How to Get There
To visit the Naruto Whirlpools, there are several transportation options available. If you are coming from Tokushima or Naruto, you can catch a local bus to Naruto Park. There is also a bus service available from Tokushima Awaodori Airport for those traveling by plane. The airport bus will take you to Naruto in approximately 40 minutes.
If you are coming from the major cities in the Kansai region, such as Kobe, Osaka, or Kyoto, you can take a bus to Naruto. The bus ride from Kobe takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, while the journey from Osaka and Kyoto takes around 2 to 2 and a half hours.
Conclusion
The Naruto Whirlpools in the Naruto Strait are a natural wonder that draws visitors from near and far. These powerful whirlpools, formed by the collision of currents from the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean, are a sight to behold. Whether you choose to watch them from the Onaruto Bridge, take a sightseeing boat, or walk along the Uzu-no-Michi Walkway, experiencing the Naruto Whirlpools is an unforgettable experience. Combined with other attractions in the area, such as the Senjojiki Observatory and the Otsuka Museum of Art, a visit to the Naruto Strait offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and history.
Address And Maps Location:
Hyogo-ken / Tokushima-ken
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