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An experience tour offering panoramic views from the top of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge.
The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, connecting Kobe in Hyogo Prefecture with Awaji Island, is one of the world’s largest suspension bridges. The bridge stretches 2.43 miles, and its main towers rise approximately 984 feet high. The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge Tower Top Tour offers sweeping views of the Kobe cityscape and Awaji Island from this height.
The tour meets at the Awaji Island anchorage of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, next to the Roadside Station Awaji. First, participants watch a video explaining the tour’s safety precautions and put on fall-prevention straps, helmets, and other safety equipment. Once ready, they walk along a maintenance passage more than 131 feet above the water and head for the top of the tower. The guides are bridge engineers who were involved in constructing the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge. This rare experience offers the opportunity to hear directly from these professionals about the bridge’s engineering and history while walking along the same maintenance passage where they once worked.
After walking about 0.6 miles along the maintenance passage, participants finally reach the main tower. Take the elevator up and step through the ceiling hatch to find spectacular views awaiting from approximately 984 feet above the water. A sweeping panorama unfolds, encompassing the Kobe cityscape, Awaji Island, and the Seto Inland Sea. On clear days, you may even be able to see Abeno Harukas.
Enjoy this memorable experience as you pass through areas normally closed to the public and take in magnificent views of the suspension bridge in harmony with the sea.
The information provided is based on the tour schedule as of 2023.
Details for 2024 will be announced on the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge - Bridge World - website and other channels once they have been finalized.
View from Roadside Station Awaji. The concrete structure on the left is the 350,000-metric-ton anchorage.
Participants receive a tour briefing inside the anchorage at the meeting point and watch a video about the construction of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge.
Climb the stairs to a height equivalent to the 10th floor of a building.
The guides explaining the bridge are engineers who took part in its construction.
Walking near the edges of the maintenance passage is dangerous, so stay in the center.
The maintenance passage also offers spectacular views. With a refreshing breeze and shelter from direct sunlight, it is a pleasant walk.
Finally, the top of the tower. The view is even more rewarding after climbing 171 steps and walking 0.6 miles.
The Kobe cityscape viewed from the main tower on the Awaji Island side. The graceful curves of the cables on both sides are also striking.
The bridge glows in rainbow colors on the hour and jewel tones at 30 minutes past each hour. Photo courtesy of Honshu-Shikoku Bridge Expressway Company Limited.
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available?
No, free Wi-Fi is not available.
Q
Are coin-operated lockers available?
No, lockers are not available.
Q
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily and covers most of your skin.
Do not wear skirts, dress shoes, high heels, sandals, or similar footwear.
Q
What should I be careful of during the tour?
Take every precaution to ensure that you do not drop anything.
For your safety, please follow the tour guide’s instructions.
Q
Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
You must keep both hands free and may not carry anything in them during the tour.
Cameras, smartphones, and similar items must be secured with a neck strap and worn around your neck.
Neck straps are available to borrow.
Q
Can I take photos and videos during the tour?
You may take photos and videos only with a camera or smartphone secured to your body with a neck strap or similar device.
Do not remove the neck strap from around your neck while taking photos or videos.
Q
Is the tour canceled if it rains?
The tour will generally proceed in light rain.
