Sakae Bridge

Sakae Bridge is a concrete arch structure that crosses the Shinano River and links different parts of Sakuho town in Nagano Prefecture. The construction features the distinctive arched design typical of mid-20th century Japanese bridge engineering.

The bridge was built to improve connections between communities during the region's modernization period. Later, the Japanese Society of Civil Engineers recognized it as an important heritage site for its construction methods.

The bridge sits in the same region where animator Makoto Shinkai grew up, and its design echoes the style of bridges he later depicted in his films. People passing through notice how the structure blends naturally with the surrounding landscape.

The bridge is open to foot traffic and vehicles, allowing visitors to cross and observe the river landscape below. Walking across offers good views of the surrounding countryside and the waterway it spans.

The bridge may have inspired visual elements in films by animator Makoto Shinkai, who grew up in this area. Fans of his work sometimes visit to see how real locations match scenes from his animations.