Ayunose Bridge

Ayunose Bridge is an engineering structure that crosses the Midori River gorge with a distinctive V-shaped concrete pier design. The span rises approximately 140 meters above the water, connecting two sides of a steep mountain valley.

Construction began in 1993 and took approximately six years to complete, connecting remote agricultural communities in the Kumamoto region. The project improved access to previously isolated areas.

Designer Miyoko Ohno incorporated linear forms and curves in the bridge structure to reflect the natural landscape of mountains and valleys in Japanese architecture.

Designated observation platforms are located on both sides of the canyon, allowing visitors to photograph the structure and gorge from multiple angles. These viewpoints provide clear sightlines to see the bridge in its landscape.

The bridge employs a three-span prestressed concrete design that flows through its V-shaped piers as a unified form. This engineering approach creates seamless structural transitions that are visually striking when viewed from the observation areas.