Ota Bridge, Warren truss steel bridge in Minoh Kamo, Japan
Ota Bridge is a steel structure using Warren truss engineering that crosses the Kiso River and links Minoh Kamo and Kani. The span was designed to allow river traffic below while providing a solid passage for vehicles and people across the waterway.
Completed in 1926, this bridge replaced the traditional ferry that once operated at this crossing point along the Nakasendo trade route. In 2008, seismic reinforcement work was done and a side road was added to handle modern traffic volumes.
The Japan Society of Civil Engineers recognized Ota Bridge as a selected civil engineering heritage site in 2011 for its structural importance.
The bridge is open to pedestrians, bicycles, and vehicles, with good views of the river from several vantage points. It is best to walk across during quieter times since vehicle traffic can be heavy during peak hours.
Stone pavements from the original ferry landing sites remain visible on both riverbanks, showing how people once crossed here. These remnants let visitors see the actual spots where boats once brought travelers before the bridge was built.
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