How long is Seto Ohashi Bridge?

The bridge system consists of six separate bridges connecting five islands, with a total length of approximately 13.1 kilometers including approach sections.

Can I walk or bike across Seto Ohashi Bridge?

No. The bridge has no pedestrian or bicycle access for safety and design reasons. Crossing is only possible by car, bus, or train.

Where can I get views of Seto Ohashi Bridge?

Seto Ohashi Memorial Park on the Sakaide (Kagawa) side has museums and observation towers. Washuzan Hill on the Kurashiki (Okayama) side provides panoramic views. Boat tours in the Seto Inland Sea also pass near the bridge.

How long does it take to drive across the bridge?

Driving across the Seto-Chuo Expressway takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

Does the bridge carry both cars and trains?

Yes. The bridge has a double-deck structure with the Seto-Chuo Expressway for vehicles on the upper deck and the JR Seto-Ohashi Line for trains on the lower deck.

Kagawa

Seto Ohashi Bridge

4.6 (702)BridgeTransportation ServicePoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated May 17, 2026

Seto Ohashi Bridge is a bridge system spanning the Seto Inland Sea, linking Okayama Prefecture on Honshu with Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku. Completed in 1988 after nearly ten years of construction, the bridge created a permanent link between Shikoku and the main islands, replacing ferry services. The system consists of six separate bridges connecting five islands, with total length approximately 13.1 kilometers. Construction addressed deep water, strong currents, and accommodation of road and rail traffic. The bridge carries the Seto-Chuo Expressway for vehicles and JR Seto-Ohashi Line for trains on a double-deck structure.

The bridge transformed Shikoku's connectivity and economy, ending isolation and enabling efficient movement. The engineering demonstrates Japan's technological capabilities, with design withstanding earthquakes, typhoons, and maritime conditions. The bridge is a Seto Inland Sea landmark providing dramatic sea and island views. The double-deck design combines road and rail infrastructure.

Visitors experience the bridge by crossing via car, bus, or train. Driving across the Seto-Chuo Expressway provides elevated sea and island views from the upper deck, with crossing taking approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Train passengers on the JR Seto-Ohashi Line travel on the lower deck. Observation facilities near bridge approaches include Seto Ohashi Memorial Park on the Sakaide (Kagawa) side, featuring museums, observation towers, and construction exhibitions.

Washuzan Hill observation point on the Kurashiki (Okayama) side provides panoramic bridge and seascape views. These viewpoints allow appreciation of the bridge's scale and engineering. Seto Inland Sea boat tours sometimes pass beneath or near the bridge, offering water-level perspectives.

The bridge connects Okayama on Honshu to Sakaide and Utazu in Kagawa on Shikoku. The JR Seto-Ohashi Line connects Okayama Station with Takamatsu Station, crossing the bridge in approximately 50 to 60 minutes. The Seto-Chuo Expressway allows vehicular crossing with tolls (typically several thousand yen). Seto Ohashi Memorial Park is accessible via buses or taxis from JR Sakaide Station. Washuzan Hill is accessible from JR Kojima Station or by car.

Phone

+81 877-45-5511

Website

www.jb-honshi.co.jp

Overview

Address

Japan, 〒762-0025 香川県坂出市川津町

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

Traveling by JR train from Okayama to Takamatsu, crossing the Seto Ohashi Bridge is an unforgettable experience. The train runs above the Seto Inland Sea, offering beautiful views of the calm water and scattered islands, combined with impressive steel bridge structures. This iconic bridge carries both railway and highway traffic, making the journey itself a highlight of the trip. Highly recommended during daytime—sit by the window for the best views!

Ivy Chen

Jan 15, 2026

I visited Seto Ohashi Bridge （瀬戸大橋) in winter, just before Christmas. The area was very quiet, and the park felt peaceful and well maintained. With the clear, sunny winter weather, everything looked beautiful — the bridge, the sea, and the surrounding scenery all came together perfectly. It’s a lovely place to take photos, as the natural light really enhances the view even without crowds. If you enjoy serene landscapes and a slower pace, winter is a wonderful time to visit.

This bridge, spanning from Kagawa Prefecture to Okayama Prefecture, is divided into three sections, crossing an island in the middle. The entire structure is grand and breathtaking, with stunning views of the surrounding islands and passing ships. The scenery alone makes it well worth a visit.

We arrive by boat, to sail under the bridge. It can be seen from far away, hours before we arrive. It looks like never ending, from one side of the Sito inland sea to the other. An amazing construction!

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Seto Great Bridge, and it was an unforgettable experience! The sunset view from the bridge was absolutely breathtaking. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky was painted in a mesmerizing array of colors, creating a serene and picturesque scene. The combination of the stunning sunset and the impressive architecture of the bridge made for a perfect moment of tranquility and beauty. If you're ever in the area, I highly recommend timing your visit to catch the sunset – it's a sight you won't want to miss!