CHIBA

The Tokyo Wan Aqua-Line Expressway UMIHOTARU

A Floating Oasis with Breathtaking Views of Tokyo Bay

Can you imagine a floating parking area in the middle of the sea? Umihotaru, on the Tokyo Wan Aqua-Line Expressway, is a combination of engineering skills and scenic beauty. Located on a man-made island in the middle of Tokyo Bay, it offers travelers a broad panoramic view of the bay and the Tokyo skyline, making it especially attractive for photographers and sightseers.

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Access

A parking area worth a visit

The Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line is a 15.1-kilometer expressway, which combines a bridge and an undersea tunnel and connects Kisarazu City in Chiba Prefecture with Kawasaki City in Kanagawa Prefecture, making travel across Tokyo Bay convenient. Opened in 1997 after nearly 30 years of research and construction, it is considered a modern engineering wonder, earning the nickname "The Apollo Project of Civil Engineering." Umihotaru, meaning “sea firefly,” sits atop the Kisarazu Artificial Island, a 650-meter-long structure surrounded by the sea.

The parking area spans five levels, with parking facilities on the first three floors and a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment on the fourth and fifth. Visitors can try seafood specialties, shop for unique souvenirs, or simply relax and enjoy the 360-degree views from the observation deck. Whether it’s the sparkling waters of Tokyo Bay by day or the twinkling lights of the Tokyo skyline by night, the panorama is breathtaking.

A feat of engineering

For those interested in this marvel of modern infrastructure, Umihotaru also offers a glimpse into the techniques behind its creation. The construction brought together cutting-edge technology and expertise from design to execution, implementing many new technologies and methods. Overcoming challenges such as soft seabed conditions, tidal forces, and concern for environmental preservation, this floating landmark stands as a testament to innovation and perseverance. Whether you’re stopping by on a road trip or making it a destination of its own, Umihotaru is a must-visit spot for an unforgettable experience of Tokyo Bay.

Access to UMIHOTARU

For those visiting by car from the Tokyo, Yokohama, or Kawasaki area, the Tokyo Wan Aqua-Line connects to both the Bayshore Route and National Route 409 at the Kawasaki Ukishima junction and the Ukishima interchange. For those visiting from the Chiba or Kisarazu area, the Tokyo Wan Aqua-Line connects to the Aqua Renraku Expressway and National Route 409 at the Kisarazu Kaneda interchange. Aqua Renraku Expressway connects to the Tateyama and Ken-O Expressways. You can also reach Umihotaru by buses departing from Kawasaki and Kisarazu Stations. The General Information Desk is open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm from Monday to Friday, and from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm on weekends and holidays.

Photo Credit:©TRANS-TOKYO BAY HIGHWAY CORPORATION

Address

Umihotaru, Nakajima Chisaki, Kisarazu City, Chiba 292-0008

Contact

Tel: +81 438-41-7401
Web Form: https://www.umihotaru.com/contact/

Business hours

Umihotaru PA (Parking Area) : Open 24 hours

General Information Desk :
Monday to Friday: 09:00 - 19:00
Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: 08:00 - 19:00

Varies by shop
Related link : https://www.umihotaru.com/en/guide/

WEB site

https://www.umihotaru.com/en/