昭和橋, Bridge over Sagami River in Kanagawa, Japan
Showa Bridge spans the Sagami River to link Atsugi City and Sagamihara City, with a two-lane roadway and a separate pedestrian path running alongside. The structure stretches roughly 364 meters and carries Kanagawa Prefectural Road 508.
The bridge opened in 1931 and replaced a ferry service called Taima-Kamiichi that had operated at this crossing since the Meiji period. This marked a key moment in establishing modern transportation links between the two communities.
The bridge takes its name from the Showa era, representing a turning point in how Japan modernized its infrastructure during that period. Local residents use it daily as an ordinary part of their routine connecting the two cities.
The bridge provides a direct passage between Atsugi and Sagamihara for both vehicles and pedestrians, with clear separation of traffic and foot paths. The pedestrian walkway allows safe crossings, though daytime hours can bring heavy traffic.
The structure underwent major rebuilding in 1966 and 1992, leaving little trace of its original 1931 design in what visitors see today. These renovations transformed it completely into a modern transportation facility rather than preserving its historic form.
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