肘折希望大橋, Steel bridge in Okura, Japan
The Hijiori Hope Bridge is a steel structure spanning mountainous terrain with an S-shaped design, steel frame construction, and multi-level layout. It connects Okura village center to the hot springs area while crossing a valley with varying width sections.
The structure was built following a landslide in April 2012 that cut off access to the Hijiori Onsen area, with completion in November 2013. It restored a direct connection that had been severed by the natural disaster.
The name panels feature organic LED displays showing handwritten characters from the prefecture governor and local schoolchildren. This design blends modern technology with personal touches from the community.
The bridge shortens travel time between the village center and the onsen area by about 10 to 15 minutes. It is easily accessible from the village and offers views of the surrounding mountains during the crossing.
The vermillion railings connect symbolically to the pilgrimage path of the sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains. Local products like cherries, safflower, and tomatoes are woven into the site's visual identity.
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