Takachiho Railway Bridge

The Takachiho Railway Bridge crosses a deep gorge using four Warren truss spans as its structural support. The span reaches approximately 105 meters above the valley floor and extends about 117 meters in total length.

The structure was completed in 1971 and enabled rail transport through the gorge for several decades. A typhoon in 2005 caused severe damage to the railway infrastructure in the area.

The bridge takes its name from Amaterasu, the sun goddess in Japanese mythology, linking it to local spiritual traditions. This connection shapes how people in the region view the structure as more than just infrastructure.

The bridge is best experienced during a cable car ride that takes about 30 minutes and departs regularly from a nearby station. Visit during daylight hours when the gorge views are clearest and lighting conditions are best.

The structure has become a tourist landmark since its completion and is now primarily used by visitors riding a cable car system. The journey offers dramatic views of the surrounding cliff walls and the gorge's vegetation.

Location: Takachiho

Inception: December 30, 1971

GPS coordinates: 32.70706,131.32901

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:00