生地中橋, Rotating bridge in Kurobe, Japan.
The Ikuji-naka Bridge crosses the entrance to Kurobe Fishing Port and features a rotating mechanism that allows fishing boats to pass through. The entire 307-ton structure moves on hydraulic cylinders that turn it horizontally to accommodate vessels of different sizes.
The structure was originally installed as a vertical-lift bridge in 1961 before being converted to a rotating system in March 1982. This change allowed for more efficient management of vessel traffic through the harbor.
The bridge earned recognition in 2006 when it was selected as one of Japan's 100 historical cultural properties of fishing villages.
The bridge operates around the clock and is controlled from a dedicated control room nearby. When needed, it rotates approximately 78 degrees to allow fishing boats safe passage through the harbor entrance.
The bridge uses a rare cantilever rotation system with a pivot point positioned on one side rather than at the center. This unusual design allows smooth turning without central support, representing an innovative engineering approach in Japanese bridge construction.
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