The Naruto Strait is one of the world's three major tidal currents, along with Canada's Seymour Strait and Italy's Messina Strait. The whirlpools created by these steep currents are the Naruto whirlpools.

Twice a day, a large amount of seawater flows into the 1.3km wide Naruto Strait into the Seto Inland Sea, and the force of the outflow is said to create whirlpools.

The speed of the current is said to be 13km to 15km per hour, but the fastest tides are said to exceed 20km per hour, making it the fastest tide in Japan.

The undulating whirlpools can reach up to 30 meters in diameter, and are said to be the largest in the world.

You can also look down on the whirlpools of the strait from the 45m-high Onaruto Bridge, but parking is prohibited on the bridge, so we recommend taking a pleasure boat and seeing the dynamic whirlpools up close. is.

■ Basic information
Name: Naruto Strait (whirlpools)
Address: Naruto Park, Naruto Town, Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture
Nearest station: JR Naruto Station (by bus)
Business hours: Open for viewing anytime
Price: Free
No regular holiday
Parking: Roadside parking available

*Please check the website for detailed information.