Kanmon Tunnel Pedestrian Walkway: Fukuoka and Yamaguchi Prefectures

There is a special experience that I have wanted to do for ages now but there was always something either holding me back or preventing me for accomplishing this task.  However, my opportunity arose last weekend because my family joined in in one of my many forays into adding more attractions into my itineraries and thus I had another driver that could meet us on the other side so to speak.

Both sides, can be designated as the entrance point.  This time I chose to enter from the Honshu side of Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture and exit from the Kyushu side of Fukuoka Prefecture but it is obviously possible to choice the other option.  This exercise although not an issue for me (however height challenges affect me greatly) may not be for everybody, I can understand that people who feel uncomfortable to be in relatively small areas may not want to participate in this activity.  In these cases, they may stay in the vehicle and drive with me across the bridge or thru the automobile instead of the pedestrian tunnel.

I am sure everyone will enjoy and remember this not normal and not everyday experience.

Please click on the photos to enlarge.

The entrance

Check out the many maps

Time to walk.

Not too far

Half way point

The 2 separate prefectures

Before heading down to the bottom of the tunnel there is a very historical area in front of the entrance called the Dannoura Battlefield.  This area is where the major battle between 2 major clans took place in the 12th Century.  As a result of this battle the Genji Clan went on to become a powerhouse in feudal Japan and the Heike Clan became a footnote in history.  Sad how things can change in an instant but interesting and a important part of history that made Japan the country that it is today.

Please click on the photos below to enlarge.

12th century technology

Check out those guns

Lots of info

Kanmon Bridge

Leader of the Heike Clan

Leader of the Genji Clan

English explanations

Powerful image indeed!

Finally, on the arrival side and where I pick you up at the Mekari Shrine, we will quickly say thank you for your safe passage under the sea and praise the gods for your continued safety during your travels here in Japan.  It can never hurt to have as many prayers and blessings as possible, right?

There is no need to go overboard but a few coins as a symbol of gratitude will definitely go a long way.

Lots of info to digest

Great views

Great location

A popular place

Contemplation time

Please click here to see the Kanmon Tunnel Pedestrian Walkway on a map:

Please click on these videos to see more about this above location;