Naruto, a city famous for its whirlpools, is where nature’s power meets human creativity, inviting visitors to explore art, history, and spiritual heritage.

Naruto whirlpool strait
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Overview

Naruto City (Tokushima Prefecture) is a remarkable destination where natural power meets cultural depth. The whirlpools of the Naruto Strait, created by one of the world’s three greatest tidal currents, showcase a dramatic spectacle unlike anywhere else. Just as breathtaking is the Ōtsuka Museum of Art, Japan’s largest exhibition space, where more than 1,000 Western masterpieces are meticulously reproduced on ceramic panels, preserving their beauty for generations to come. Naruto is also the starting point of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a spiritual journey of 88 temples that has guided and inspired travelers for centuries. Adding to its cultural richness, the city is one of the places where visitors can experience Awa Odori, Tokushima’s world-famous traditional dance, known for its lively music and colorful costumes. Whether you are drawn by the power of nature, the beauty of art, the depth of spirituality, or the joy of cultural celebration, Naruto offers a unique and unforgettable introduction to Shikoku.

Awa dancing

Must-see spots

Saruto Whirlpools

Naruto whirlpools

Naruto’s whirlpools are a breathtaking natural phenomenon created by the collision of tides in the Naruto Strait. Recognized as one of the world’s three greatest tidal whirlpools, they fascinate travelers with their power and beauty. The best way to experience them is by boarding a sightseeing boat that sails close to the spirals, or by walking along the observation deck under the Onaruto Bridge. Each viewing offers a different perspective, making every visit unique. The whirlpools are not only a symbol of Naruto but also one of Japan’s most awe-inspiring natural spectacles.

Ōtsuka Museum of Art

The Ōtsuka Museum of Art is Japan’s largest exhibition space, renowned for its full-scale ceramic reproductions of Western masterpieces. With over 1,000 works spanning ancient to modern times, visitors can explore world art history in one place. Its highlight is the Sistina Hall, faithfully recreating Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling and the monumental Last Judgment on the altar wall. Unlike traditional museums, guests are not only encouraged to take photographs but also allowed to touch the ceramic panels, experiencing art in a unique and interactive way. This makes the museum an inspiring and unforgettable cultural destination in Naruto.

Otsuka museum

Fukuju Soy Sauce Brewery

Local Soy sauce

Founded in 1826, Fukuju Soy Sauce has carefully preserved the traditional production methods handed down since its establishment to this day. The soy sauce is naturally fermented over a period of more than a year, giving it a rich aroma and depth. Tours of the 200-year-old brewery are available, where visitors can learn about the traditional soy sauce-making process—a rare experience in today’s world—while exploring the facility, followed by opportunities to taste the soy sauce and shop for products.

We recommend that you ask a local tour guide to guide you around the area. If you are looking for a guide, please click the Application Form button in the header menu, fill it in, and send it to contact us. For details, please refer to Searchguides.com below.

More Information (Links to other sites)

Access

  • It takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes from Osaka and 1 hour and 30 minutes from Kobe to Naruto by highway bus or car.

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Author of this article

Masamiのアバター Masami A tour guide

I have guided many foreign tourists mainly in Naruto City since I obtained my National Interpreter Guide certificate in 2016.

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