Seikan Tunnel

Seikan Tunnel

The Seikan Tunnel is an undersea tunnel located in northern Japan and is the world's second-longest railway tunnel (after the Gotthard Base Tunnel, which was scheduled to open in 2017). It crosses the Tsugaru Strait between Honshu and Hokkaido, connecting Aomori Prefecture on Honshu and Tappu Town in Kamiiso District, Hokkaido, with a total length of 53.85 kilometers, significantly reducing travel time between Honshu and Hokkaido.

Construction of the Seikan Tunnel began on September 28, 1971, was completed in March 10, 1985, and officially opened on March 13, 1988. The deepest part of the tunnel reaches 140 meters below sea level and 100 meters beneath the seabed, making its construction incredibly challenging. The tunnel not only enhances connectivity between Honshu and Hokkaido but also holds significant military importance, ensuring uninterrupted transportation between the two islands in case the Tsugaru Strait were blocked and Hokkaido became isolated. This would allow continuous supply of military resources to Hokkaido. In recent years, the Seikan Tunnel Memorial Museum and the Seikan Tunnel Entrance Plaza have also gained notable tourism value. The museum showcases the entire process from the tunnel’s conception to completion through sound, visuals, scale models, and other exhibits, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the tunnel.

Seikan Tunnel

Reason to visit: The world’s second-longest railway tunnel

Continent: Asia

Country/Region: Japan

Province/State: Aomori Prefecture and Hokkaido