Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Ondo Strait is a narrow strait in Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture, and is one of the important waterways connecting the islands of the Seto Inland Sea with the mainland. It has been used as a key point for ship navigation since ancient times, and Kure developed as a naval base from the Meiji period onwards, so Ondo Strait also held significance in terms of maritime transport and military affairs. Currently, there are bridges such as the Ondo Bridge and the Second Ondo Bridge spanning the strait, and the scenery created by the bridges and the rapids is a popular tourist spot.
Its attractions include the contrast created by the ripples on the narrow sea surface caused by the fast currents, the ships sailing, and the red bridge, as well as the panoramic views that can be seen from the surrounding observation points. It is a popular spot for strolling, taking photos, and stopping off on drives.
Highlights
- Ondo Bridge and Second Ondo Bridge: Bridges spanning the Seto Inland Sea. The combination of the bridge and the sea is photogenic.
- Ondo no Seto Park (observation deck): A classic observation spot where you can get a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and the bridge from a high vantage point. The evening and night views are also recommended.
- Tidal scenery: The currents caused by the tides are fast, and the sight of boats going back and forth through the narrow waterway is impressive.
- Local fishing boats and ferries (please check the operation status): Small ferries and local boats come and go.
- Photo spots: There are plenty of subjects to photograph, including compositions with the bridge in the background, views from the bridge, stone walls along the shore, and alleyways.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Kure Line "Kure Station." From Kure Station, it is convenient to travel by bus, taxi, or rental car.
(Approximately 30-40 minutes from Hiroshima Station to Kure Station by JR, depending on the type of train and time of day) - Bus: There are local buses within Kure City that go towards Ondo. Departures and arrival times and the number of buses vary depending on the route and time of day, so please check the Kure City Transportation Route timetable in advance.
- By car: Accessible via national and prefectural roads. Approximately 15-30 minutes by car from central Kure (depending on traffic conditions). There are paid and free parking spaces around the observation deck, but please note that the number of spaces is limited.
- Walking/Cycling: There are paths suitable for walking in the surrounding area. Please check the signs on the day to see if there are sections where you can walk on the bridge and if there are any restrictions on pedestrian traffic.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short sightseeing (viewing and photography only): 30 minutes to 1 hour
- A leisurely stroll, including meals and strolls around the area: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Day trips combining nearby museums (Yamato Museum, etc.) and island hopping: Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Yamato Museum (Kure City Maritime History and Science Museum): Exhibits that teach the history of shipbuilding and the navy in Kure. Popular with families.
- Iron Whale Museum (Kure Maritime Self-Defense Force Museum): A museum where you can see exhibits of submarines and the Maritime Self-Defense Force (please note the closing days and opening hours).
- Kurahashi Island and Etajima: You can also enjoy island hopping around the surrounding islands.
- Haigamine (night view spot): A mountain with a panoramic view of the nightscape of Kure city. A great place to stop by on a drive.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: On weekends, holidays, Golden Week, Obon, and other days, the number of tourists increases, and parking lots and observation spots can become crowded. Please allow plenty of time for your trip.
- Safety and Traffic Etiquette: Watch out for cars on bridges, narrow alleys, and sections without sidewalks. Bridge sidewalks can be narrow, so please yield to other pedestrians and cyclists when passing each other.
- Currents and dangers at the beach: The strait has some areas with fast currents. Please avoid standing on the shore, fishing, diving, etc. as they are dangerous.
- Weather and season: In winter, the wind is strong and the temperature feels low, and in summer, the sun and heat are intense, so take measures to prevent heatstroke such as wearing a hat and staying hydrated. During typhoon season, be aware of sea and road closures.
- Photography/Drones: Photography is permitted from the observation deck, but please be considerate and not disturb other visitors. If flying a drone, be sure to check local government and aviation law regulations, as well as any prohibited areas set by surrounding facilities (ports, harbors, coast guards, etc.).
- Local etiquette: Take your trash with you, stay off private property and in restricted areas, and be considerate of local residents and fishing communities.
Ondo Strait is a spot where you can enjoy the scenery of the sea and bridges even for a short visit. Combining your visit with other tourist spots in Kure will make your trip even more fulfilling. We recommend checking transportation information and facility opening times before visiting.
