Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Seto Ohashi Bridge is a series of continuous bridges over the Seto Inland Sea that connects Honshu (near Kojima, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture) and Shikoku (near Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture). Construction began in 1978 and it opened on April 10, 1988. It is approximately 13.1 km long and its greatest feature is its two-level structure, with a road (upper level) and a railway (lower level). The road is a lifeline connecting Honshu and Shikoku by car, and the railway, which operates services such as the Marine Liner, has contributed to a significant improvement in regional exchange and logistics.
Its greatest appeal is the view of the Seto Inland Sea's many beautiful islands up close. On clear days, the bridge itself has become a tourist attraction, with the beautiful sight of large and small islands, the calm sea surface, and the silhouette of the bridge at dusk. The views from the observation points overlooking the bridge and the parking area on the bridge (Yoshima PA) are also popular.
Highlights
- Washuyama Observatory (Okayama side) - A famous viewpoint overlooking the Great Seto Bridge. The panoramic view on a clear day and the sunset are beautiful.
- Yoshima Parking Area (on the island) — A rare offshore parking area located midway along the bridge. It has an observation deck, souvenir shop, and restaurant, and offers close-up views of the bridge.
- The Marine Liner, which runs over the Seto Ohashi Bridge, offers a spectacular view from the train, allowing you to enjoy the islands and bridge structure through the train window (between Okayama and Takamatsu).
- The structural beauty of the bridges - There are a number of different types of bridges, including suspension bridges, cable-stayed bridges, and truss bridges, making them technically impressive.
- Evening and night views — The silhouette at sunset and the night illuminations (which change depending on the season and events) are also recommended.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: JR Seto Ohashi Line (Marine Liner)
- Okayama side (Honshu): Accessible via Kojima Station/Okayama Station. Getting off at Kojima Station is convenient for getting to Kojima and Mt. Washu.
- Shikoku side (Kagawa): Access by train from Sakaide Station/Takamatsu area. From Sakaide Station, take a bus or taxi to the Setouchi Ohashi Bridge area.
- By car: Take the Setouchi Chuo Expressway (Setouchi Ohashi Bridge). You can stop at Yoshima PA. *There is a toll for the bridge (there is a toll).
- Bus: There are sightseeing buses and express buses to Mt. Washu and Yoshima. Please check the tourist routes departing from and arriving at each location.
- Note: In principle, it is not permitted to cross the bridge on foot. In most sections, walking and cycling are restricted.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Crossing the bridge (by car): Approximately 10-20 minutes (varies depending on traffic conditions and speed)
- Passing by Marine Liner (Okayama - Takamatsu): Approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour (depending on stops)
- Sightseeing guide:
- Photo shoots and strolls at Washuyama Observatory and Yoshima PA: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Sightseeing in the surrounding area (visiting multiple spots): Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Washuzan Observatory (Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture) — A classic view spot of the Seto Ohashi Bridge.
- Yoshima (the island on the Kagawa side) — There is an observation deck and a shop, and you can get a close-up look at the bridge.
- Setouchi Ohashi Memorial Park (Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture) — History of the Setouchi Ohashi Bridge, exhibits, and walking areas.
- Kojima (Jeans Town) — Kojima Jeans Street and local gourmet food.
- Takamatsu Ritsurin Garden (Kagawa Prefecture) and Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter (Okayama Prefecture) - take a short trip to popular tourist spots.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- No walking: Generally, pedestrians are not allowed to walk on the bridge as it is a public road. If you want to see the bridge up close, please use the official viewing spots such as the observation deck or Yoshima PA.
- Crowds: Tourist spots and parking areas are crowded on weekends, consecutive holidays (Golden Week, summer vacation, Silver Week, Obon), and at dusk. Parking lots may fill up, so we recommend arriving early.
- Weather/Wind: The Seto Inland Sea can be windy, and in bad weather, visibility may be poor and temporary road restrictions may be in place. Please check traffic information and weather forecasts before setting off.
- Photography etiquette: Please be considerate of tripods and other people at observation points. Do not enter restricted areas.
- Toilets and food and drink: There are facilities at Yoshima PA and major observation points, but options are limited on the island section, so be sure to prepare in advance.
- Nighttime Caution: The night view is beautiful, but there are many dark areas so be careful where you step. If you are visiting by car, please be mindful of your speed and safe driving.
The Setouchi Ohashi Bridge is a masterpiece of civil engineering, and is also a tourist attraction where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Seto Inland Sea. On a clear day, we especially recommend taking your time to enjoy the view from the observation points or Yoshima PA. Please enjoy the bridge while being mindful of safety and good manners.
