Discover the Stunning Industrial Night Lights of Okayama at the Mizushima Complex

In recent years, industrial night views have become a major tourist movement. While there are many industrial areas with beautiful night views throughout Japan, Mizushima Industrial Complex in Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, is arguably one of the most popular industrial night view spots due to its dynamic landscape and scale. This time, we will provide plenty of information about the Mizushima Industrial Complex night view, which is a must-see for both factory enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic night out.

1.What is the Mizushima Industrial Complex?

Mizushima Industrial Complex, overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, is an industrial zone where over 200 businesses and factories are lined up. Covering an area of 2,500 hectares, it's larger than approximately 500 Tokyo Domes! It's renowned for its breathtaking night view.

The complex houses a wide range of industries, including petrochemicals, steel, and automobiles, and the view changes dramatically depending on the viewing angle, which is a unique feature of Mizushima's night scenery. Within Kurashiki City, there are many recommended spots to admire the night view of this one of Japan's largest industrial complexes.

2.Washuzan Skyline

The 'Washuzan Skyline' is the ultimate destination for those seeking the breathtaking night view of the Mizushima industrial complex. Starting at the Hiroe Rokuchome intersection west of the Mizushima IC on the Setouchi Expressway, this drive is popular for both day and night time excursions.

The 'Mizushima Observatory' offers an unparalleled view of the Mizushima industrial complex below. The twinkling lights of countless factories create a truly romantic scene. Capturing the night view from here is a classic shot, making it a must-visit for first-time visitors to the Mizushima area.

3.Sanoyas Shipyard

Sanoyas Shipyard is located on the southeast bank, directly opposite the central part of Mizushima Industrial Complex. A seawall extends alongside the shipyard, offering a view of the world's largest integrated steel mill, JFE Steel, across the sea. The steel mill's towering smokestack billowing out smoke creates an even more dramatic sight.

This seawall is a hidden gem, more popular among anglers than those seeking industrial night views. As it can be dangerous depending on the weather, it's advisable to avoid the tip of the seawall on windy days and simply enjoy the view from a safe distance.

4.Ushiodori

Ushiodori" is located straight south of Mizushima Rimpei Railway's Urada Station, along Prefectural Road 274. Ushiodori is an area where you can get a close-up view of the factories of the Mizushima Industrial Complex. While the night view from the observatory is undoubtedly beautiful, the raw and imposing power of the factories seen up close is a sight that factory enthusiasts simply can't resist.

If you're looking to capture industrial night view photos that are more rugged and powerful rather than romantic and full of twinkling lights, Ushiodori is the place for you. The opportunity to look up at the towering tanks of the refinery and the power plant is also a major draw.

5.Tsusen-en Observatory

"Tsusen-en Observatory" is located on a promontory southeast of Sanyas Shipyard. This spot offers a unique perspective of the Mizushima Industrial Complex from the sea, making it a hidden gem for those seeking a serene night view.

Not only does it provide a breathtaking view, but the observatory also allows you to capture both the sea and the industrial night scenery in a single frame, making it an ideal spot for a romantic date. If you're looking for a quiet place to enjoy the night view, this is the perfect spot for you.

6.Mitsubishi Motors Factory Mizushima Plant

Mizushima Industrial Complex is renowned for its stunning night views, but did you know there are factories here that offer tours? One such factory is Mitsubishi Motors Mizushima Plant, which spans an area equivalent to approximately 27 Tokyo Domes. What makes this plant truly unique is that it carries out the entire vehicle production process in one location, a rarity on a global scale. Having the opportunity to witness firsthand the manufacturing process from start to finish at such a world-class facility is an invaluable experience.

Tours last approximately 1.5 hours and are conducted three times daily from Monday to Friday at 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM, and 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM. Reservations are required, so be sure to inquire in advance. It’s a rather unique way to spend your time - touring the factory before enjoying the night view. Incidentally, the plant is located right in front of Mitsubishi Jiko-mae Station, the terminus of the Mizushima Coastal Railway.

◎ A Factory Night View Cruise is Also Recommended!

We've introduced the tourist attractions of the Mizushima Industrial Complex's night view. If you want to see the factory night view up close, we recommend a cruise where you can enjoy the night view. A cruise to see the sunset over the Seto Inland Sea and the factory night view is very romantic!

Departure dates and times vary depending on the period, so please check the homepage in advance. Factory night views have become a standard night date course. When visiting Okayama or Kurashiki, be sure to extend your trip and enjoy the night view of the factories at Mizushima Petrochemical Complex, one of Japan's leading industrial areas.