Umihotaru
A toll road rest area in the middle of the sea between Tokyo Bay and Chiba, known as Umihotaru PA, is a unique and fascinating destination. Located on the sea, it is part of the Tokyo Wan Aqua-Line Expressway, a highway toll road that runs underneath Tokyo Bay from Kisarazu in Chiba Prefecture to Kawasaki in Kanagawa Prefecture. This toll road rest area offers a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers, allowing them to take a break and enjoy the beautiful view of the surrounding area.
Umihotaru PA is accessible from both sides of Tokyo Bay, either from Kawasaki or Kisarazu. There are buses that go to the island departing from Kawasaki and Kisarazu stations, so visitors can easily reach the rest area. For those driving from Tokyo, Yokohama, or Kawasaki, they can connect to the Aqua-Line by taking the Bayshore Route or National Route 409 at both the Kawasaki Ukishima junction and Ukishima interchange. From the Chiba or Kisarazu area, the Aqua-Line connects to the Aqua Renraku Expressway and National Route 409 at the Kisarazu Kaneda interchange.
One of the highlights of Umihotaru PA is its unique parking facility, which spans five floors and houses a variety of restaurants, shops, and observation decks. The lower three floors are dedicated to parking and can accommodate approximately 500 cars and trucks. The upper floors feature a range of amenities for visitors to enjoy.
The fifth floor of Umihotaru PA is particularly impressive, with its restaurants and observation decks offering panoramic views of Tokyo Bay. From here, visitors can admire the city’s skyline, iconic buildings, and even catch glimpses of Chiba and Yokohama. The observation decks provide an unparalleled vantage point to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding area. Additionally, visitors can also get an up-close look at one of the giant cutters used to carve out the Aqua-Line’s tunnel.
Umihotaru PA’s name, which means sea firefly, reflects the grandeur of this structure. It truly stands out as a remarkable landmark in the middle of the sea. The rest area offers a complete range of facilities, ensuring that visitors have everything they need during their stopover. Whether it’s grabbing a bite to eat at one of the restaurants, shopping for souvenirs at the shops, or simply enjoying the view from the observation decks, Umihotaru PA has something for everyone.
For those interested in learning more about the Aqua-Line and Umihotaru PA, there is a theater room on the fifth floor that showcases the construction of the toll road and the rest area. This provides visitors with an educational and immersive experience, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of the engineering feat behind this impressive infrastructure.
Umihotaru PA is not just a rest area; it is a destination in itself. Visitors can easily spend several hours exploring and enjoying all that it has to offer. Whether you’re traveling by car or taking a bus, Umihotaru PA is a must-see attraction for anyone passing through the Tokyo Bay area.
In conclusion, Umihotaru PA is a toll road rest area like no other. Located on the sea between Tokyo Bay and Chiba, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers. With its five floors of restaurants, shops, and observation decks, it provides a complete range of facilities for visitors to enjoy. The panoramic views of Tokyo Bay, the city skyline, and the surrounding areas are breathtaking. Whether you’re driving or taking a bus, Umihotaru PA is a must-visit destination that showcases the beauty and engineering marvels of the Tokyo Wan Aqua-Line Expressway. So, if you find yourself in the area, make sure to stop by Umihotaru PA and take in the incredible sights it has to offer.
Address And Maps Location:
Nakajimachisakiumihotaru, Kisarazu-shi, Chiba-ken
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