Overview
Naruto is a compact coastal city at the northeastern tip of Shikoku, best known for the Naruto Whirlpools — massive vortexes up to 20m wide and 2m deep that churn in the Naruto Strait between Awaji Island and Shikoku. It also holds special significance for Buddhist pilgrims as the starting point of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, with the first two temples located here.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · History · Nature
Before you go
Food
Naruto sweet potatoes (kintoki) are the local specialty, used in cakes, cookies, and shochu liquor.
Museums
Otsuka Art Museum (¥3,150 adults) replicates world masterpieces; German House (WWI POW camp history) opens 09:30-17:00.
Pilgrimage
Ryōzenji and Gokurakuji, temples 1 and 2 of the Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage, are both in Naruto city.
Transport
JR Naruto Station is the main rail hub; bicycle rental (¥500/day) is available at the tourism center near the station.
Whirlpools
Best whirlpool viewing during new moon and full moon periods; viewpoints at both ends of Onaruto Bridge are free.
