A spectacular view from the top of the bridge out over a score of islands spread across the Seto Inland Sea
The Great Seto Bridge system connects Okayama Prefecture on Honshu to Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku island. The entire length of the system consists of different bridge designs, including those of suspension, cable-stayed, and truss. The bridge works as both a road and railway and has become important infrastructure for the Shikoku islanders. Of this bridge series, the Kita Bisan-Seto Bridge allows visitors to climb to the top of the tower. From the top, 175 meters above sea level, there is a spectacular view of scores of islands spread across the Seto Inland Sea.
*The schedule for the "Seto-Ohashi Bridges Sky Tour" in 2024 is yet to be determined. Once the dates are confirmed, the information will be announced on the official website of the "Seto-Ohashi Bridges Sky Tour" and other relevant channels.
Learn by video about the tour overview and some caution points.
The Yoshima Parking Area is located at about the middle point of the Great Seto Bridge. From here, we climbed to the top of Kita Bisan-Seto Bridge. First, we went to the conference room on the second floor of the service facility for an overview of the tour and the caution warnings. The rules included not carrying anything in our pockets, securing our cell phones and cameras with a strap, only taking photos at the designated areas, and neither the drinking of alcohol nor the wearing of sandals was allowed. After this guidance, we headed to the skytour at last!
Walking on the bridge maintenance passage where the JR Seto-Ohashi Line runs close by.
We walked ahead to the anchorage, the base of bridge tower, where regular visitors were usually strictly prohibited. While walking, the guide told us about the bridge building, its technology and history. As the guide had worked on the actual construction and maintenance of the bridge, his story was very convincing and explanatory. Next, we took an elevator inside the anchorage to get to the maintenance passage which the JR Seto-Ohashi Line passes next to. When the tour timing is right, you can see the trains running close up from the maintenance passage.
The unforgettable views of the Seto Inland Sea and the illuminated bridge
We entered the main tower and took the elevator up. After passing through a room filled with machines, we finally reached the top of the tower. The view from 175 meters above the sea with scores of islands like the Shiwaku archipelago spread across the Seto Inland Sea left us speechless! Because the Great Seto Bridge system is made up of several different bridges, the Honshu side views and Shikoku side views present different outlooks.
Another fun thing is shopping at the noodle store and souvenir shop in the Yoshima Parking Area after the tour. On Saturdays and certain days the bridge is lit up, so you can wait for sunset and enjoy the romantic atmosphere.
