Tsunoshima Bridge and Kitaura Coast Drive

Stretching straight across an emerald sea, Tsunoshima Bridge is one of Yamaguchi finest views. This refreshing drive crosses the bridge, tours the island, and follows the Kitaura coastline.

Course Route

9:30 Start at the Tsunoshima Bridge viewpoint Before crossing, take in the full view from a rise on the Honshu side. Photograph the bridge, about 1,780 meters long, reaching straight over the blue sea toward Tsunoshima. Opened in 2000, the bridge is free to cross.

10:00 Cross Tsunoshima Bridge Drive onto the island with the sea spreading on both sides. A small island (Hatoshima) floats partway across, and the gradations of sea color shift beautifully.

10:30 Tsunoshima Lighthouse A white granite lighthouse built in the early Meiji era. Climb the internal spiral staircase to the observation deck, where a panorama of the Sea of Japan opens below.

12:00 Seafood lunch on the island Sample freshly caught seafood and take a break. Eateries and sea-view cafes are dotted around the island.

14:00 Drive the Kitaura coastline Return to Honshu and follow the winding Kitaura coast. Pass scattered fishing ports, small beaches, and curious rock formations while enjoying the varied seascape.

Highlights

The bridge and the crystal-clear sea are the main sight. The view from Tsunoshima Lighthouse beyond the bridge and the coast on the west side of the island should not be missed either.

Access and Tips

Public transport is limited, so a rental car is recommended. Parking at the viewpoint by the bridge is limited and gets crowded, so arrive early.

Practical Travel Notes

• Time needed: Enjoying the bridge viewpoint, the crossing, and the lighthouse takes about 2 to 3 hours. Adding the Kitaura coast drive makes it a half-day to full-day itinerary.
• Getting there: A car is essential. From Shimonoseki or Ozuki Interchange on the Chugoku Expressway, drive along the coast. A bus also runs from JR Kottoi Station, but services are few, so checking the timetable is a must.
• Toll: Crossing Tsunoshima Bridge is free. Climbing Tsunoshima Lighthouse requires a viewing fee of 300 yen for junior high age and up, and it is free for younger children (fees may change).
• Avoiding crowds: On holidays and in summer, the viewpoint and the area around the bridge get busy. Early morning makes parking easier and the sea color more vivid.
• What to bring: There is little shade, so bring a hat and sun protection. On windy days a light layer is reassuring.

A Quick Tip

The color of the sea is most vivid on sunny days. Aim for a clear morning to meet the most beautiful scenery.

Practical Information for Your Visit

• Tsunoshima Lighthouse (viewing hours): 9:00-17:00 from March to September, and 9:00-16:30 from October to February. Last entry is 20 minutes before the closing time
• Tsunoshima Lighthouse (closed days): Open every day. However, viewing may be suspended in stormy weather or during equipment inspections
• Parking: Amagase Park, the viewpoint on the Honshu side, has free parking for 46 cars, and Sezaki Akari Park on the Tsunoshima side has free parking for 24 cars. The parking around Tsunoshima Lighthouse is paid parking (free of charge for large buses)
• Inquiries: 083-786-0108 (Tokokai Public Interest Incorporated Association, Tsunoshima Branch / Tsunoshima Lighthouse), 083-786-0234 (Hohoku Town Tourism Association)
• Official information: Official website of the Tokokai Public Interest Incorporated Association / Yamaguchi Prefecture Tourism Federation "Oidemase Yamaguchi e"

* The above is a guide based on information published by each facility and local government. Hours and prices are subject to change, so please check the official information before you set out.