Kobe faces the Seto Inland Sea and offers a variety of attractions, from its sophisticated streets filled with history, such as Kobe Port and the Ijinkan district, to beautiful night views and Kobe beef gourmet experiences. Maiko Park is the perfect spot to enjoy the stunning panorama of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge connecting Kobe to Awaji Island, along with the scenic Seto Inland Sea!
Enjoy the spectacular view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge from the Maiko Marine Promenade
The Maiko Marine Promenade is a walkway set beneath the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, where visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea while seeing the bridge’s structure up close. From Maiko Station, follow the path lined with pine trees, and you’ll find it on your right.
The promenade is a circular walkway that extends 317 meters out over the strait at a height of about 47 meters above the sea. Here, you can feel the sea breeze while enjoying panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, as well as the cities of Kobe and Akashi, from inside the bridge.
In the sections with glass floors, you can look straight down at the ocean, adding an exhilarating thrill! The ‘Maruki Bridge’ features a single log placed on the glass floor, allowing you to feel as if walking directly over the ocean as you step on it. About half of the walkway has open spaces instead of windows, designed to let the wind pass through and reduce resistance on the bridge, letting you feel the refreshing sea breeze—a sensation that heightens the thrill even more.
The promenade also features an observation lounge and a café, where you can relax while enjoying the breathtaking views. After enjoying the architectural beauty of the bridge, strolling through Maiko Park for a panoramic view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is highly recommended. Since we visited on a weekday, there were hardly any people, allowing us to savor the stunning views.
Viewing the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge from Maiko Park
From Maiko Park, you can take in the full expanse of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Awaji Island, and the vast blue sea and sky stretching endlessly before you! As expected of one of the world’s largest suspension bridges, seeing it up close is truly awe-inspiring!
The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in the world, spanning 3,911 meters, with a central span (the main part of the suspension bridge) of 1,991 meters. Construction began in 1988, taking ten years and approximately 500 billion yen to complete in 1998. It was designed to withstand strong winds, large waves, and even earthquakes, and it suffered minimal damage during the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. Impressive!!
As you walk through Maiko Park, you’ll see people enjoying fishing, and the angle from which you view the bridge changes, creating an impressive sight from every perspective! Walk a bit further, and you’ll come across a donut-shaped monument called the ‘Dream Lens.’ This ring, known as a Möbius strip, is made by twisting a strip once and connecting the ends to form a shape that continues endlessly. It’s engraved with the message, ‘Life cannot be fulfilled without dreams.’ The Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, seen through this lens, offers a unique and beautiful view.
Historic Architecture and Beach Resort
Within Maiko Park, you’ll find the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, a three-story octagonal tower that serves as a symbol of the park and is designated as an important cultural property. This hall reflects traditional architecture from southern China. In the back left of the park, there is also the Former Residence of Sanji Muto, a Western-style colonial building with beautiful architecture and expansive gardens.
As you continue, you’ll come across the white sandy beach of Azur Maiko. With its crystal-clear water and sand, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy a resort atmosphere while taking in the spectacular view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. Open to the public as a free beach, it’s a spot I’d love to explore next time!
Tourist Information and Events
Maiko Park hosts various events throughout the year, especially on weekends when it becomes lively with tourists and locals. At night, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is beautifully illuminated, creating a fantastical view. Additional lighting displays are held on special occasions and holidays, and the promenade is lit up, offering a unique atmosphere that differs from daytime.
Along the pathway are stone steps and grassy areas where you can sit, making it an ideal spot for a scenic seaside stroll or picnic. With its spacious layout, it’s a great place to visit, even with a large group.
Maiko Park, where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, is a highly recommended spot. Why not take a trip to Kobe’s Maiko Park to experience its exotic charm, history, and breathtaking panorama of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Seto Inland Sea?
Maiko Park
5-minute walk from JR Sanyo Main Line (Kobe Line) “Maiko” Station and Sanyo Electric Railway “Maiko Park” Station.
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