Kaiyō(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Kaiyō-chō, the top choice for hot spring access is Kaiyō-chō Onsen Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn featuring private outdoor baths overlooking the Naruto Whirlpools. The sulfur-rich waters are renowned for their skin-healing properties and offer a rejuvenating soak with panoramic sea views. Many rooms include tatami flooring, sliding shoji screens, and kaiseki dining experiences using fresh local seafood. Nearby, Kaiyō-chō Minshuku House offers family-friendly cabins with shared onsen facilities and guided nature walks along the coast. Both accommodations provide free shuttle services to Naruto Whirlpool Park and are ideal for travelers seeking authentic wellness retreats in Shikoku’s hidden gem.

The Kawanojima District is the prime location in Kaiyō-chō for sightseeing and beach access. This coastal neighborhood lies just steps from Naruto Whirlpool Park, where visitors can witness the world-famous tidal vortexes during high tide. The area features a scenic seaside promenade lined with cafes, art installations, and small beaches perfect for swimming or sunbathing. Many lodgings here offer direct access to the Kawanojima Coastal Trail, which winds through sea caves and rocky outcrops ideal for photography. Additionally, the district hosts seasonal events like mini-Awabi Dance festivals and night lantern walks, blending culture and natural beauty seamlessly. Public buses and rental bicycles make exploring nearby attractions effortless.

Visitors to Kaiyō-chō can participate in a rare Awabi Dance Workshop, a localized version of the famous Awa Dance festival held annually in summer. Locals guide guests through basic moves and traditional costume fittings before performing on the beach stage. Another highlight is bamboo weaving classes at the Kaiyō-chō Craft Center, where you’ll create handmade baskets or wind chimes using sustainably sourced bamboo from nearby forests. For a magical evening experience, join the Night Lantern Parade along the harbor, where handcrafted paper lanterns float gently into the sea—a serene ritual that embodies Shikoku’s coastal spirit. These immersive activities provide deep insight into local traditions beyond typical tourism.

The hot springs in Kaiyō-chō are uniquely rich in hydrogen sulfide, giving them strong therapeutic benefits for skin conditions and joint pain. The water temperature averages around 45°C, making it ideal for relaxation while still offering medicinal value. At Kaiyō-chō Onsen Ryokan, the open-air baths feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls facing the Naruto Whirlpools, allowing guests to soak while watching massive tidal eddies swirl below. Some spas also offer herbal compress treatments and aromatherapy massages, enhancing the wellness experience. Visitors should begin with a brief cold rinse to acclimate, as the mineral content can be intense. Always limit soaks to 15–20 minutes to avoid overheating.

For families, Kaiyō-chō Kodomo Onsen Minshuku stands out as a top-rated option. This spacious, self-contained cottage-style lodging includes a children’s playroom, sandbox, kitchenette, and a private onsen pool designed for safety and comfort. Activities such as beach treasure hunts and marine life discovery sessions are organized by staff, turning learning into fun. Located just 300 meters from Kawanojima Beach Park, it offers shaded picnic areas and playgrounds. Many rooms offer family breakfast sets featuring local eggs, honey, and homemade soy milk. Free parking and shuttle service to Naruto Whirlpool Park ensure hassle-free travel. Perfect for parents seeking both relaxation and engaging experiences for kids.

Must-try dishes in Kaiyō-chō include Naruto Whirlpool Fish Sashimi, made from locally caught sea urchin snapper, known for its delicate texture and briny flavor. Another highlight is sweet potato mochi and sweet potato pancakes, served fresh at the Kaiyō-chō Night Market. For a true farm-to-table experience, book a family-style lunch featuring mountain vegetable stew chicken and pickled seaweed rice, all prepared with ingredients grown on-site. Don’t miss Sea Breeze House Café, which serves artisanal coffee brewed from local beans paired with homemade pastries. Each dish reflects the region’s deep connection to the sea and mountains.

The most breathtaking natural attraction in Kaiyō-chō is the Naruto Whirlpools, one of the world’s largest tidal eddies, reaching up to 20 meters in diameter. Formed by powerful currents in the narrow Naruto Strait, these swirling vortexes are visible from Naruto Whirlpool Park and best viewed during peak tide—approximately twice daily. Take a guided boat tour for an up-close perspective or visit the Whirlpool Observation Deck for panoramic views. Nearby, Kawanojima Coastline boasts dramatic sea caves and rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion, perfect for hiking and photography. After rain, sunlight pierces through cave openings, creating stunning light beams—nature’s own gallery.

Transportation in Kaiyō-chō is convenient despite its rural setting. The Tosa Kuroshio Railway connects Kaiyō-chō Station directly to Tokushima Station in about 45 minutes, with frequent departures throughout the day. From the station, local buses or pre-booked shuttles serve major accommodations and tourist sites. For those driving, National Route 55 provides a smooth route to the town, with clear signage and ample parking at lodges like Kaiyō-chō Onsen Ryokan. Electric bike rentals are also available, enabling easy exploration of coastal trails and village lanes. Plus, many hotels offer free shuttles to Naruto Whirlpool Park, ensuring seamless access to key attractions without needing a car.

The best times to visit Kaiyō-chō are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures range between 18–25°C and humidity is low. Spring brings cherry blossoms along the Kawanojima River, creating a pink-hued landscape perfect for photos. Autumn transforms the Naruto Gorge Trail into a fiery red tapestry of maple trees. Summer offers vibrant festivals like Awabi Dance, but can be humid and prone to typhoons; winter is cooler but quieter, ideal for tranquil onsen retreats and coastal strolls. Avoid July and August if possible to enjoy better availability and more peaceful surroundings.

Top souvenirs in Kaiyō-chō include Naruto Whirlpool Fish Dried Snacks, crafted from local catch and perfect for gifting. Another standout is handmade bamboo crafts, such as woven baskets and decorative wind chimes, produced by skilled artisans using sustainable forest materials. Try sea salt honey jam, a unique blend of coastal sea salt and regional honey, available at the Kaiyō-chō Products Center. Some guesthouses offer custom packaging services with personalized labels. Also look for Kaiyō-chō-themed postcard sets at Sea Breeze House Café, featuring hand-drawn maps and scenic illustrations—ideal for collectors and memory keepers. These items capture the essence of this coastal Shikoku gem.