Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park

Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park spans approximately 330 hectares across the coastlines of Hyogo and Awaji Island, connected by the iconic Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the world's longest suspension bridge with a central span of 1,991 meters. Established in 2002, the park was created to commemorate the completion of this engineering marvel and to provide recreational space celebrating the relationship between humans and nature in the Seto Inland Sea region.

The park is divided into four distinct zones. The Awaji Yumebutai area features terraced gardens and the striking modernist architecture designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, built on land reclaimed after providing soil for the bridge's construction. This area includes the Hyakudanen (Hundred Step Garden) with its geometric water features and seasonal flower displays. The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge area on the mainland side offers panoramic observation points and educational exhibits about the bridge's construction.

Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea, the massive suspension bridge, and surrounding islands from multiple vantage points throughout the park. Seasonal attractions include extensive flower gardens with tulips in spring, sunflowers in summer, and cosmos in autumn, with plantings often exceeding 100,000 bulbs or plants. The park's waterfront location provides opportunities for leisurely walks, picnicking, and photography, particularly during sunset when the bridge is illuminated.

Access from Osaka or Kobe is straightforward via the JR Kobe Line to Maiko Station, which connects directly to the mainland sections of the park. For the Awaji Island sections, visitors can take a bus from Maiko Station or drive across the bridge via the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway. The Yumebutai area is approximately 15 minutes by bus from Iwaya Bus Stop after crossing the bridge.