白川橋, Rigid-frame bridge in Sakaiminato, Japan
The Shirakawa Bridge is a rigid-frame structure that spans across Lake Nakaumi, connecting the city of Sakaiminato in Tottori Prefecture with the Eshima area in Shimane Prefecture. It accommodates both vehicle and pedestrian traffic over the water.
Construction began in 1997 and finished in 2004, replacing an older drawbridge that had limited traffic between the two areas. This new structure marked a turning point in how the two prefectures were connected.
Residents see this bridge as a symbol of connection between the two prefectures, making travel that was once complicated now simple and daily. The span has become part of how people think about moving between these regions.
The bridge has different slopes on each side, making it easy to navigate for drivers, and it is designed for both vehicles and pedestrians. Plan for the slopes when driving and allow extra time, as crossing takes several minutes.
This is Japan's largest rigid-frame bridge and is often photographed for its impressive engineering feat. The central span is unusually long, making it a notable example of modern Japanese infrastructure.
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