Heira Bridge

Heira Bridge connects the islands of Osakishimojima and Herashima by spanning a strait as part of the Akinada Tobishima Kaido transportation network. The structure carries both vehicle and pedestrian traffic across this waterway using modern engineering techniques.

The bridge opened in 1995 and marked an advancement in Japanese infrastructure development. It significantly improved transportation connections between the island communities that were previously more isolated from each other.

The bridge, known as Heira-bashi in Japanese, represents the engineering capabilities of Hiroshima Prefecture while supporting local fishing communities.

The bridge is accessible via the Higashi-Hiroshima Kure Expressway and takes about an hour to reach from the nearest major interchange. Visitors should note this is an active traffic route, so crossing is most pleasant outside peak travel times.

This bridge holds the distinction of being the first of its type in Japan, constructed using innovative precast concrete block methods. The building technique was groundbreaking at the time and demonstrated advanced engineering capabilities.

Location: Kure

Official opening: August 1, 1995

Part of: Akinada Tobishima Kaido

GPS coordinates: 34.19194,132.84928

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:25