First Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge, Suspension bridge in Imabari, Japan
The First Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans 960 meters across the Kurushima Strait, connecting Oshima Island to Takeshima Island. It has separate lanes for cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians, with a speed limit of 70 kilometers per hour for vehicles.
Construction began in 1988 and finished in 1999 as part of completing the Shimanami Kaido expressway system. The opening connected two regions that had previously relied mostly on ferries to cross the water.
The bridge is part of a series of structures that connects Shikoku to Japan's main islands, allowing cyclists and pedestrians to travel across what was once only accessible by sea. It has become an important route for people exploring the region by bike and on foot.
Access varies depending on wind conditions, which can affect whether you can cross safely. It is wise to check wind forecasts before your visit to avoid unexpected closures.
The bridge closes to pedestrians and cyclists when winds exceed 15 meters per second, and closes entirely to all traffic at 25 meters per second. This makes it a place where the power of weather becomes immediately obvious to anyone crossing.
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