Seto Ohashi Bridge and Shimotsui: Spectacular Views and Seafood at the Base of the Bridge Connecting Honshu and Shikoku

Seto Ohashi Bridge, opened in 1988 (Showa 63) and connecting Kurashiki City, Okayama with Sakaide City, Kagawa, is approximately 13.1 kilometers in total length (bridge sections) and one of the world's largest combined road and railway bridges. Six bridges connecting the Seto Inland Sea islands are known worldwide both scenically and engineering-wise.

Spectacular Views from Washuzan Observation Deck

The observation deck set on Okayama Prefecture-side Washuzan (Mt. Washu) is a spectacular viewpoint for looking down at Seto Ohashi spanning the Seto Inland Sea. On clear days, a vast panorama extending to the mountains of Shikoku spreads out. At dusk, spectacular views of sunsets with Seto Ohashi and Seto Inland Sea islands overlapping are enjoyable.

The Old Port Town of Shimotsui

"Shimotsui" at the base of Seto Ohashi on the Okayama side is a historic fishing port that flourished as a port of call for kitamaebune merchant ships in the Edo period. The old townscape of Shimotsui with remaining old warehouses and stone-paved alleys conveys the atmosphere of old seaside ports.

Shimotsui Octopus Cuisine

Shimotsui's specialty is octopus (tako) cuisine. Octopus rice, octopus sashimi, octopus tempura, and more using fresh octopus caught in the Seto Inland Sea can be enjoyed at Shimotsui restaurants.

Access

To Washuzan Observation Deck, about 40 minutes by Shimoden Bus from JR Kurashiki Station (alight at Washuzan High School), or about 30 minutes by car.