Katsushika Harp Bridge, Cable-stayed bridge in Katsushika district, Japan.
Katsushika Harp Bridge is a cable-stayed structure spanning the Ayase River with two unequal towers of 65 and 29 meters. The design features a distinctive S-shaped curve supported by 48 steel cables arranged in a way that inspired the bridge's name.
The bridge opened on September 9, 1987 as the world's first curved cable-stayed design. It was built as part of Tokyo's Central Circular Route and represented a breakthrough in bridge engineering at the time.
The name comes from a public competition and refers to the musical instrument, inspired by how the cables resemble harp strings. Visitors notice this connection as soon as they see the distinctive shape and the way the steel cables stretch across the span.
The four-lane structure accommodates both vehicle traffic and pedestrians comfortably, with walkways on the sides. Access from the surrounding neighborhoods is straightforward, and the bridge connects major local routes in the area.
The bridge comes alive at night through 30 lighting poles positioned at its towers, creating striking reflections. These lights make the cable pattern especially visible and highlight the meeting point of two rivers below.
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