Kamesan Observatory Park

Overview

Kamesan Observatory Park sits atop a 307.8-meter peak in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture. Designated as part of the Seto Inland Sea National Park, it's renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and stunning views. The park features an observatory designed by architect Kengo Kuma, offering truly awe-inspiring vistas. The park's unique highlight is the simultaneous view of the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge – the world's first triple-suspension bridge – and the powerful currents of the Kurushima Strait, one of Japan's three great tidal currents. The Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge, spanning 1,091 meters, connects Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture with Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture across the Seto Inland Sea. Its unique triple-suspension design is a marvel of engineering and captivates visitors with its grandeur. The Kurushima Strait is one of the narrowest parts of the Seto Inland Sea, known for its incredibly fast currents, sometimes exceeding 10 km/h. This powerful force of nature creates a vibrant ecosystem, attracting diverse marine life and birds. From Kamesan Observatory Park, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama, including views of Ishizuchi Mountain (the highest peak in western Japan), the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, and the Imabari cityscape. At sunset, witness the romantic spectacle of the sun dipping below the Seto Inland Sea. At night, enjoy the illuminated Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge and the glittering cityscape of Imabari. Kamesan Observatory Park is a must-visit destination, offering a perfect blend of the Seto Inland Sea's majestic natural beauty and the magnificent Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge, a testament to modern engineering.