A remarkable double-decker bridge connects five islands, creating a breathtaking sight as it seems to stretch endlessly into the sky.
Known as the Seto Ohashi Bridge, this two-tiered marvel serves as a vital link between Honshu, Japan’s main island, and Shikoku, offering travelers a swift 20-minute journey across the scenic Seto Inland Sea. Construction on this engineering marvel commenced in 1978, opening to the public over a decade later and replacing the lengthy ferry commute that previously took over an hour.
Beyond its engineering significance, the Seto Ohashi Bridge has become a magnet for tourists. Enthusiasts flock to spots like the Seto Ohashi Memorial Park to witness the bridge’s majestic presence, described as soaring both into the sky and distant by the Japanese tourist board.
For those looking for a day trip, the park features various attractions such as gift shops, a rooftop viewing deck, Japanese gardens, and a children’s playground. Additionally, visiting after sunset offers a mesmerizing experience as the bridge lights up the night sky.
The bridge’s impressive statistics speak for themselves. Spanning a total length of 13.1 kilometers (8.1 miles), with the longest section, the Minami Bisan-Seto Bridge, stretching 1,100 meters, the structure accommodates two lanes of motorway traffic in each direction on the upper level and a railway line in each direction on the lower level.
The completion of this engineering marvel took a decade and cost US$7 billion (£5.3 billion), utilizing vast amounts of concrete and steel. Unfortunately, the construction also claimed the lives of 17 workers despite safety precautions. Today, the Seto Ohashi Bridge stands as the world’s longest combined railway and road bridge.
For enthusiasts of architectural wonders looking to visit the bridge, a convenient route involves flying into Tokyo and catching a train to Okayama. From there, visitors can access the bridge by train, bus, or car, with buses departing from Sakaide Station to the Memorial Park, a journey of around 20 minutes.
Along the bridge, several points of interest await exploration:
– Seijima, once an island now connected to Shikoku, remains a charming spot known for cultural traditions, festivals, and sea bream fishing.
– Shamijima, another former island now part of the mainland, boasts a picturesque beach and views of the Seto Ohashi Bridge.
– The Ogoshi district in the east of Sakaide City offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea from its perch on Goshikidai Mountain, known for its citrus orchards.
– In Kagawa, south of Shikoku, visitors can indulge in the region’s culinary delights, including the famous Sanuki udon noodles, celebrated for their unique texture and thickness.
Experience the beauty and wonder of the Seto Ohashi Bridge and its surrounding attractions, offering a blend of natural splendor, cultural heritage, and architectural brilliance.