Gensai Bridge, Rigid-frame bridge in Shimane Prefecture, Japan.
Gensai Bridge is a rigid-frame concrete structure spanning Nakaumi Lake with a direct route for vehicles between two prefectures. The roadway accommodates multiple lanes and the structure sits on massive pillars anchored deep in the lake bed.
It replaced an older drawbridge in 1997 that frequently stopped vehicle traffic to allow ships to pass through the lake. The new structure finally enabled uninterrupted passage for drivers crossing between the two regions.
The bridge links Matsue and Sakaiminato, two port towns that rely on steady trade and movement between shores. Over time, it has become a vital passage for residents who travel between the two prefectures for work and daily life.
The crossing is relatively level and manageable for drivers, with gentle slopes on both approaches. Most travelers can complete the journey in just a few minutes under normal conditions.
It holds the distinction of being Japan's largest rigid-frame bridge and ranks among the world's most significant structures in this engineering category. Its size and construction make it a notable example of modern Japanese infrastructure.
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