The Largest Whirlpools in the world – Naruto Whirlpools
The Naruto whirlpools (鳴門の渦潮 Naruto no Uzushio) are tidal whirlpools in the Naruto Strait, which is one of the largest in the world. I have visited the Naruto Strait many times and it’s been always very exciting experience. I would recommend this unique site as a must see for visitors. The speed of the water is the fastest in Japan and it may reach 20 km/h (more than 10 knots) during a spring tide. Naruto city is located in the northeast of Tokushima Prefecture and it is also the closest city in Shikoku area to Osaka and Kobe. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Kobe, about 2 hours from Osaka.
Naruto whirlpools can be seen closely from one of the tourist boats in the area. In order to see the whirlpools up close, I recommend trying a tide-watching boat which gets so close to the whirlpools. Enjoy a thrilling view of the violent tidal current. The Ohnaruto Bridge is another perfect spot for viewing the whirlpools. You can enjoy the view of the beautiful blue Inland Sea of Japan and the grand Ohnaruto Bridge together with the whirlpools.
The Naruto whirlpools are one of the 3 biggest whirlpools in the world along with Strait of Messina in Italy and Seymour in Canada. It’s worth visiting!