北浦大橋, Steel bridge over Lake Kitaura in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan
The Kitaura Bridge spans 415 meters across the lake with multiple span systems that support its deck structure. It includes a 6.5-meter-wide roadway for vehicles and a separate 3.5-meter pedestrian path on National Route 354.
An original bridge opened in 1968 but was destroyed during a major earthquake in 2011. The current structure was built and completed in 2012 as a replacement.
This crossing links Namegata and Hokota, serving as a daily route for people traveling between the two communities on opposite shores. It has become part of the local rhythm, silently supporting the flow of everyday life between these connected cities.
The structure is accessible on foot thanks to its dedicated pedestrian path running alongside traffic. Be aware that this is a busy route, so crossing is safest during quieter periods or when traffic is lighter.
This crossing was engineered with specialized earthquake-resistant features based on lessons learned when the previous bridge collapsed in 2011. These design improvements make it a model for safe construction in areas prone to seismic activity.
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