What is Umihotaru?
Umihotaru (海ほたる) is a parking area (PA) located along the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line, which connects Kisarazu City in Chiba Prefecture with Kawasaki City in Kanagawa Prefecture.
Built on an artificial island floating in the middle of Tokyo Bay, it is Japan’s only offshore parking area and is famous as a scenic spot.
Visitors can enjoy the blue sea by day and beautiful night views after dark, attracting many tourists.
Here, we’ll introduce in detail Umihotaru’s highlights, gourmet food, access information, and more!
Highlights and How to Enjoy Umihotaru
1. Enjoy 360-degree panoramic views
Umihotaru is located in the very center of Tokyo Bay and is surrounded by the sea.
On clear days you can see Tokyo Skytree and Mount Fuji — truly an observation deck on the sea!
Recommended viewing spots:
- 5F Observation Deck (an open-air spot with breathtaking views)
- 4F Glass-walled Observation Floor (enjoy the scenery regardless of the weather)
2. Savor Umihotaru’s signature gourmet food
Umihotaru offers local specialties you can only taste here!
Recommended Umihotaru foods
- Asari-man (a steamed meat bun filled with plenty of clams, a Chiba specialty)
- Kaisen-don (a seafood bowl to enjoy fresh ocean delicacies!)
- Kisarazu Burger (a local burger made with ingredients from Chiba Prefecture)
- Melon Pan Ice (a popular sweet: freshly baked melon bread sandwiched with ice cream)
3. Learn about the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line’s engineering
Umihotaru has an exhibition area where you can learn about the construction technology of the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line.
At the “Umihotaru Gallery” you can find information on the undersea tunnel and the construction of the artificial island.
Highlights:
- A model cutter from the shield machine actually used in construction
- Documentary footage about the Aqua-Line’s construction
- Technical explanation panels about the undersea tunnel
4. Take souvenir photos at photo spots!
Umihotaru has many unique photo spots.
Take photos you can only get here and create lasting travel memories!
Recommended photo spots:
- 5F “Sea Bell” (a romantic bell you can ring with the sea as a backdrop)
- “Aqua-Line-kun” giant statue (the Aqua-Line’s mascot character)
- “Bell of Happiness” (said to bring good luck when rung with a partner or friends)
5. Enjoy limited-time events
Umihotaru hosts various seasonal events throughout the year.
For example, Christmas illuminations and summer fireworks are among the special seasonal attractions.
Past event examples:
- Illumination light-up (winter)
- Limited-time local gourmet fairs
- Character shows (for families)
Access to Umihotaru
By train and bus (public transportation)
- From the Tokyo/Yokohama area, take a train or bus to Kawasaki Station or Kisarazu Station, then transfer to an express bus that stops at Umihotaru.
By car (recommended!)
Since Umihotaru is a highway parking area, visiting by car is the most convenient!
- From Tokyo: Metropolitan Expressway Wangan Route → Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line → Umihotaru
- From Chiba: Tateyama Expressway → Kisarazu JCT → Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line → Umihotaru
Parking:
- Free (available 24 hours)
- Can accommodate around 500 standard cars!
Useful Information for Travelers
Wi‑Fi and facilities
- Free Wi‑Fi available (free Wi‑Fi spots)
- Convenience store (open 24 hours)
- Well-stocked souvenir shops — specialties from Chiba & Kanagawa available
Language support
- Brochures available in English, Chinese, and Korean
- Some staff can assist in English
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
Umihotaru is a unique sightseeing spot located in the middle of Tokyo Bay!
With panoramic views, gourmet food, and exhibits about the Aqua-Line’s engineering, it offers many attractions that make it worth visiting not only as a rest stop during a drive but also as a tourist destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is entry to Umihotaru free?
A: Yes! Parking is free, and the only charge is the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line toll.
Q: How long do people usually stay?
A: Most people stay about 1–2 hours on average, but if you want to leisurely enjoy the views and food, you can spend 3 hours or more!
Q: What are Umihotaru’s opening hours?
A: The parking area is open 24 hours, but some restaurants and shops have different hours (most are roughly 8:00–22:00).
Q: Can I enjoy Umihotaru on rainy days?
A: Yes! There are plenty of indoor areas, so you can comfortably enjoy it even on rainy days.
When sightseeing in Tokyo or driving toward Chiba or Kanagawa, be sure to stop by Umihotaru!
