Misumi and Amakusa Five Bridges: A Group of Spectacular Bridges Called a String of Pearls

Amakusa Five Bridges: A Spectacular Drive Called a String of Pearls

The Amakusa Five Bridges, connecting Misumi in Uki City, Kumamoto Prefecture, to Amakusa Kamishima and Shimoshima, is a collective name for five bridges opened in 1966, once called the Amakusa Pearl Line. Against the backdrop of the beautiful multi island scenery of the Yatsushiro Sea, or Shiranui Sea, dotted with islands large and small, the sight of five bridges stringing together like pearls is a popular scenic drive route among the finest in Kyushu.

Highlights of Each of the Five Bridges

The five bridges, from the Misumi side, are called Number 1 Tenmon Bridge, Number 2 Oyano Bridge, Number 3 Naka no Bridge, Number 4 Maeshima Bridge, and Number 5 Matsushima Bridge. The largest, Tenmon Bridge, is a continuous truss bridge 502 meters long, with a magnificent form spanning the strait. The view of sea and islands from the bridge is exceptional. Together with the new Amaki Bridge opened in 2018, it is well worth seeing. The stretch from the first to the fifth bridge is about 15 kilometers, and the changing face of the sea with each bridge crossing is a highlight of this drive.

Sightseeing Cruises and Dolphin Watching

Sightseeing boats departing from Misumi Port and Matsushima let you view the Amakusa Five Bridges and multi island scenery up close from the sea. In addition, wild dolphins reside in the waters off Amakusa, and dedicated dolphin watching tours are known for a high chance of encountering pods. Dolphins frolicking beside the boat make an unforgettable memory for children and adults alike.

Access and Basic Information

To reach Misumi, the starting point of the Amakusa Five Bridges drive, JR Misumi Line Misumi Station is convenient, about 45 minutes from Kumamoto Station. Travel on the sightseeing train A Ressha de Ikou is also popular. Beyond Misumi, head toward Amakusa by local bus or rental car. By car, use national roads from interchanges such as Matsubase on the Kyushu Expressway. Tenmon Bridge became toll free in 1975, nine years after opening, and there is still no toll today.

Practical Travel Notes

To enjoy the spectacular multi island scenery, choose a day with a calm sea and clear air. The view of bridges and islands bathed in sunset is especially beautiful, so checking sunset times before visiting helps you not miss the chance. Roadside stations along the way offer fresh local seafood and the specialty citrus Shiranui, or Dekopon. Dolphin watching operations change with weather and sea conditions, so booking ahead and confirming the day of operation is reassuring.

One Piece of Advice

The best season runs from spring to autumn when the sea shines, highlighting the contrast of islands and bridges. Extending your trip toward Amakusa lets you enjoy the churches of Amakusa and historic sites tied to hidden Christian culture. Combining a drive, a sightseeing boat, and dolphin watching makes for a day of fully savoring the charm of the sea.

Sources

This article was edited as general travel information based on the tourism information issued by Uki City, Kamiamakusa City, and the local tourism association connected by the Amakusa Five Bridges, public information from the sightseeing-boat and dolphin-watching operators departing from Misumi Port and Matsushima, and public information on the bridges such as the Tenmon Bridge. Sightseeing-boat and dolphin-watching operations change with the weather and sea conditions, and fees and departures may change. Before you set out, please confirm the latest sailing status through official sources for each operator and the local government.

Visitor Checklist

- Estimated time: The Amakusa Five Bridges drive is about 15 kilometers between the first and fifth bridges, so allow about half a day including stops - What to bring: The sightseeing boat and dolphin watching are windy on the water, so bring a jacket, and prepare a camera for the island scenery - Sailing check: Sightseeing-boat and dolphin-watching operations change with weather and sea conditions, so reserve in advance and confirm operations on the day - Suggested route: Starting from Misumi, cross the five bridges such as the Tenmon Bridge while enjoying the island views, then take a sightseeing boat or dolphin watching from Misumi Port or Matsushima - Timing: The bridges and islands are especially beautiful at sunset, so check the sunset time so as not to miss the chance