Biwako Ōhashi Bridge, Toll bridge across Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Japan
Biwako Ōhashi Bridge is a toll bridge in Shiga Prefecture connecting the Katata district in Ōtsu with the Imahama area in Moriyama. The structure arches gently across the water and carries vehicle lanes along with pedestrian and bicycle paths on each side.
The crossing opened in 1964 and created the first direct link between the two shores. This new route shortened the travel time between the cities by roughly 50 minutes.
The bridge divides Lake Biwa into two distinct sections: the Northern Lake and the Southern Lake, reflecting the geographical understanding of the water body by local residents.
Vehicles pay a toll while pedestrians and cyclists can use the paths on both sides free of charge. The crossing is easy to navigate during the day, and the walkways offer open views of the water.
A section of the eastbound overtaking lane produces melodies through grooves in the pavement when tires roll over them. This musical element surprises many drivers crossing the bridge for the first time.
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