akashi-kaikyo-bridge

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

World's largest suspension bridge connecting Kobe and Awaji Island. Total length 3,911m with 300m tall main towers. Guinness-certified as world's longest suspension bridge from 1998 to 2022. Experience the bridge from Maiko Marine Promenade at 47m above sea level, and enjoy spectacular illuminated views at night.

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

Why Visit

Construction began in May 1988 and was completed in April 1998 after about 10 years, creating one of the world's largest suspension bridges. Boasting an impressive scale with total length 3,911m, central span 1,991m, and tower height 300m. During construction, the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake caused ground displacement, extending the original 3,910m plan to 3,911m. Guinness-certified as world's longest suspension bridge for 24 years until surpassed by Turkey's 'Çanakkale 1915 Bridge' in 2022. Kobe side features Maiko Marine Promenade and Bridge Science Museum to experience the bridge's appeal.

🌉

World's Largest Suspension Bridge

Total 3,911m length, 300m tower height. Guinness-certified world's longest 1998-2022. Japan's longest and largest suspension bridge

🚶

Maiko Marine Promenade

Circular promenade at 47m above sea, 317m long. Panoramic views of Akashi Strait from inside bridge girders. Observatory lounge and marine cafe available

Illuminated Night View

Nightly illumination with seasonal color changes. Enjoy fantastic night views from Awaji SA, Maiko Park and other spots

📷

Photography Guide

Best Shots

  • Dynamic upward shot from Maiko Park
  • 47m above sea view from Marine Promenade
  • Full bridge frontal shot from Awaji SA (down)
  • Awaji Island side view from Michi-no-Eki Awaji
  • Sunset silhouette photography
  • Night illumination (tower and girder lighting)

🌅 Best Timing

  • Magic hour at sunset (around 17:00-18:00) is most beautiful
  • Night photography after complete darkness (after 19:00)
  • Clear morning air provides sharp views to Awaji Island
  • Marine Promenade open until 19:00 during GW and summer

💡 Tripods allowed at Marine Promenade. Bridge may sway on windy days. Long exposure recommended for night photography.

Essentials

Opening Hours
[Marine Promenade] Year-round 9:00-18:00, GW/Summer 9:00-19:00 (Entry 30 min before closing) / Closed: Apr-Sep open daily, Oct-Mar 2nd Monday (next day if holiday), Dec 29-31
cost
[Marine Promenade] Adults: Weekdays ¥250, Weekends/Holidays ¥300, Junior/High school students free, Seniors (70+) ¥200. 3-facility pass ¥900
Best Time
Enjoyable year-round, especially at sunset and night. Marine Promenade visit takes 30-60 minutes. Spring and autumn have pleasant weather, summer extended hours until 19:00 for night views.
Suggested Duration
About 2 hours
Access
5 min walk from JR/Sanyo Electric Railway Maiko Station. 5 min drive from Tarumi IC on Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway. Maiko Park parking (198 cars, ¥200/hour).
Accessibility
Marine Promenade wheelchair and stroller accessible. Elevators available. Free admission for disability certificate holders and one companion.

Check Official Info

Please check official site for hours, fees, etc.

View Official Info

Routes Including This Spot

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

View all blogs

Featured Events in Kobe

Highlighted events taking place in Kobe

Kasai Sky Festa 2025<br/>Hot Air Balloons & Sky Lanterns
Coming Soon

Kasai Sky Festa 2025
Hot Air Balloons & Sky Lanterns

11/23
Uzurano Airfield site and various locations around Kasai City
New Sake Festival
Coming Soon

New Sake Festival

11/24
Around Kohata Station (Kobe Electric Railway)
Kyukyoryuchi Terrace Days
Featured

Kyukyoryuchi Terrace Days

11/28 - 11/30
Naniwa-machi Street, Former Foreign Settlement, Kobe
Kobe Port Weekend Fireworks – Dec 6, 2025 | Waterfront 5-Minute Show
Featured

Kobe Port Weekend Fireworks – Dec 6, 2025 | Waterfront 5-Minute Show

12/6
Viewable from various spots along the waterfront, including Meriken Park and MOSAIC