Take the Uzushio Line boat to the Naruto Strait to see the world's largest whirlpoo

On the morning of the second day of our 10-day, 9-night self-driving trip in Shikoku, we started by visiting the ruins of Takamatsu Castle, one of Japan’s three famous water castles, at Tamamo Park. Afterward, it was time to pick up our rental car for the afternoon drive to the Naruto Strait, where we had planned to board the high-speed Uzushio Line boat to see the world’s largest whirlpool, the Naruto Whirlpool. Previously, we had reserved a car with Budget Rent a Car at their Takamatsu Station branch in front of JR Takamatsu Station. We walked from Tamamo Park to Takamatsu Station.

The JR Takamatsu Station building has a smiley face on it, and despite the bright noon sun, it didn’t feel too hot. The plaza in front of the station is quite spacious, with a friendly blue ogre statue holding a spiked club (親切な青鬼くん) — surprising how cute they made it! Inside the Budget Rent a Car office, our car, a Honda Freed, was already waiting for us by the entrance. In this branch, the rental cars are either Toyota Sienta 6-seaters or similar models like the Honda Freed.

After watching a safe driving video on a tablet in the office, we noted down the important instructions and contact number displayed on the screen. They then led us on a quick vehicle inspection before we got into the car. It was my first time using a foot-operated handbrake, and since the space usually occupied by a handbrake lever was empty, I found it convenient for placing my personal bag. After using it over the next few days, I realized how handy the foot-operated handbrake was—easy to remember to release before driving.

From the Budget office at Takamatsu Station, we drove for about 1.5 hours on the expressway to the Naruto Strait. We parked in a free parking area near the Uzushio Kisen dock and walked over to buy our tickets. Soon, it was time to board the Uzushio Line.

This high-speed sightseeing boat is large and steady, with seats inside for comfort. The captain’s cabin looked grand, though most tourists, including us, preferred standing outside for the view.

The Uzushio Line’s high speed brought us close to the whirlpool area in just about 10 minutes. As we approached the Naruto Bridge, gentle waves turned suddenly rough, and the boat began to rock. Although some passengers felt a bit scared, the boat’s stability and the captain’s skillful handling kept everyone reassured. The boat took us close to several whirlpools that form in different locations, allowing us to view them up close.

The whirlpool beneath the Naruto Bridge flows from high to low areas, influenced by underwater topography. The sea here has shades of deep or light green, and with today’s good weather, the Naruto Whirlpool was visible in full, stunning beauty.

▲ This Naruto Whirlpool rotates clockwise, flowing downwards.

▲ Whirlpool beneath the Naruto Bridge

The Uzushio Line allowed us to enjoy the whirlpool under the Naruto Bridge for at least 30 minutes before returning us to the dock. As we disembarked, a line of tourists was already waiting for the next departure. Witnessing the world’s largest whirlpool at Naruto was truly a memorable experience.