A magnificent double-decker bridge connects five islands, giving the illusion of soaring high in the sky.
The Seto Ohashi Bridge, with its two tiers, serves as a significant coastal structure linking Japan’s main island, Honshu, to Shikoku across the stunning Seto Inland Sea. Construction of this engineering marvel began in 1978, opening to the public over a decade later. Since then, it has allowed millions to traverse the Seto Inland Sea in just 20 minutes, a vast improvement from the previous ferry travel time of over an hour.
Beyond its engineering prowess, the bridge attracts tourists who flock to prime viewpoints like the Seto Ohashi Memorial Park to witness its majestic presence reaching into the sky and stretching into the distance. Visitors seeking a day trip can explore the park, which offers gift shops, a rooftop viewing deck, Japanese gardens, and a children’s playground. The bridge’s illumination after dusk provides a stunning spectacle.
The Seto Ohashi Bridge boasts impressive statistics, spanning 13.1 kilometers (8.1 miles) in total length, with the longest section, the Minami Bisan-Seto Bridge, extending 1,100 meters. It accommodates two lanes of motorway traffic in each direction on the upper level (Seto-Chūō Expressway) and one railway line in each direction on the lower level (Seto-Ōhashi Line).
This monumental project, costing US$7 billion (£5.3 billion), utilized 3.646 million cubic meters of concrete and 705,000 tonnes of steel. However, the construction was not without tragedy, as 17 workers lost their lives during the construction period. Today, it stands as the world’s longest combined railway and road bridge.
For architecture enthusiasts interested in visiting the bridge, a convenient route involves flying into Tokyo and then taking a train to Okayama. From there, travelers can access the bridge by train, bus, or car. Buses departing from Sakaide Station will take visitors to the Memorial Park in about 20 minutes.
Various points of interest along the bridge offer unique experiences:
Seijima, once an island, is now connected to Shikoku via a land bridge, showcasing cultural traditions, festivals, and sea bream fishing.
Shamijima, also formerly an island, is now part of the mainland and features a picturesque beach and views of the Seto Ohashi Bridge.
The Ogoshi district, located east of Sakaide City, offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea from Goshikidai Mountain, known for its orange and lemon orchards.
Journeying south to Shikoku leads to Kagawa, a vibrant area renowned for Sanuki udon noodles, with its distinctive chewy texture and thicker strands.
Experience the beauty and culture surrounding the Seto Ohashi Bridge by exploring these unique points along the route.