Guida
The Kanmon Tunnel Pedestrian Entrance is a dedicated tunnel for pedestrians and cyclists that runs beneath the seabed of the Kanmon Strait, connecting Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi Prefecture (Honshu) with Moji Ward in Fukuoka Prefecture (Kyushu). The most striking feature of this location is the ability to travel directly between the two main islands of Japan on foot. The entrance is designed with a unique pufferfish (fugu) motif, making it a popular and charming photo spot for tourists. It serves not only as a functional transit route but also as a key part of local sightseeing tours.
The history of this route dates back several decades. Following the opening of the Kanmon Railway Tunnel in 1942, this road tunnel was completed on March 9, 1958. The tunnel was constructed beneath the Hayasako Seto, the narrowest part of the Kanmon Strait. Having overcome significant geological challenges and material shortages during its construction, the tunnel has long served as a vital piece of infrastructure connecting Honshu and Kyushu. In the past, it also served as a hub for human interaction, with nearby rest areas supporting the flow of people and goods.
The greatest draw is the extraordinary sensation of walking beneath the ocean floor. The entrance features a portal designed to look like a giant, wide-mouthed pufferfish, welcoming visitors with a touch of local character. Inside the tunnel, the experience continues with visual details: the walls are decorated with motifs of seaweed and fish, while the ceiling depicts the changing sky through morning, day, evening, and night. Additionally, visitors can explore the nearby 'Kanmon Plaza,' a facility that offers exhibits and information regarding the local history and maritime culture.
Because the tunnel is located underground, it is unaffected by weather or sunlight. This makes it an ideal route for walking or jogging even on rainy days or during periods of intense heat. The tunnel is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM and is closed during the late-night hours. We recommend visiting during daylight hours to ensure a smooth transition between Shimonoseki and the Mojiko area. It is a reliable transit method for tourists moving between the two regions during the day.
Here, you can experience the thrill of a 'cross-island walk' from Honshu to Kyushu. A walk through the tunnel takes approximately 15 minutes, offering a sense of adventure different from standard street walking. While cyclists and those on mopeds (under 50cc) are allowed, they must follow the rule of turning off their engines and walking alongside their vehicles. Collecting local sightseeing stamps or obtaining a tourist map are also wonderful ways to commemorate your visit.
The area surrounding the Kanmon Tunnel entrance is rich with attractions. From the Kyushu side, you can easily access the historic Mojiko Retro area, while the Honshu side leads to the charming traditional streets of Shimonoseki. With various parks overlooking the strait, historical landmarks, and excellent gourmet spots nearby, it is easy to plan a full day of sightseeing before or after your walk through the tunnel.
Specific rules apply to the tunnel to ensure safety. If you are using a bicycle or a moped, you must turn off the engine and push the vehicle by hand. While there is no specific dress code, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes as you will be traversing an undersea path. Regarding payments, if any fees are required for bicycle or moped use, please have cash ready. For your safety, the area is monitored by staff and security cameras, so please follow all posted rules and signs.