A seemingly endless two-tier bridge links five islands whilst appearing to ‘ascend into the heavens’.
The double-decked Seto Ohashi Bridge stands as a coastal monument joining Honshu, Japan’s principal island, with Shikoku set against the stunning Seto Inland Sea. Construction on this engineering marvel commenced in 1978 and welcomed visitors a decade later. Since its opening, it has transported millions of travellers across the Seto Inland Sea in merely 20 minutes, compared to the previous ferry journey, which exceeded an hour.
Beyond being an engineering triumph, the bridge serves as a major tourist destination. Bridge aficionados flock to vantage points like the Seto Ohashi Memorial Park to witness how the structure “soars both into the sky and distance”, according to the Japanese tourist board.
For visitors seeking a full day’s entertainment, the park boasts gift shops, an elevated observation deck, traditional Japanese gardens and a children’s playground. Evening visits offer even more breathtaking panoramas as the bridge illuminates once darkness falls.
From a statistical perspective alone, Seto Ohashi is extraordinary.
The complete span measures 13.1 kilometres (8.1 mi), whilst the longest section, the Minami Bisan-Seto Bridge, extends 1,100m. The structure accommodates two motorway lanes in either direction (Seto-Chūō Expressway) on its upper level and a single railway line in each direction (Seto-Ōhashi Line) on the lower tier.
The venture required a decade to finish at a cost of US$7 billion (£5.3 billion), utilising 3.646 million cubic metres of concrete and 705,000 tonnes of steel. The construction of the bridge was not without its human cost. Despite the use of safety nets, ropes and other precautions, 17 workers tragically lost their lives over the decade-long building process. Today, it stands as the world’s longest combined railway and road bridge.
For those with a fascination for grand architectural feats who are considering a visit, the most straightforward route would likely involve flying into Tokyo, then catching a train to Okayama. The bridge can be traversed by train, bus or car.
From Takamatsu and Okayama, the JR Marine Liner is your best bet. Buses to Memorial Park depart from Sakaide Station and take around 20 minutes.
There are several points of interest along the bridge that may catch your eye:
Seijima
Once an island, Seijima is now linked to Shikoku via a land bridge. This quaint locale has a population of roughly 500, where residents continue to uphold cultural traditions and festivals such as the Daishi Market and the autumn festival. Known for its abundant sea bream fishing grounds, Seijima was once so popular that tourist companies offered boat tours accompanied by geishas to witness the spectacle of fishermen hauling in their nets.
Shamijima
Similar to Seijima, Shamijima was also an island before a land reclamation project filled in the channel. Its picturesque beach has been recognised by the Ministry of the Environment as one of Japan’s top 100. Here, you’ll find the Seto Ohashi Memorial Park and superb views of the bridge.
Ogoshi District
Situated to the east of Sakaide City, the Ogoshi district nestles against the slopes of Goshikidai Mountain, overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. The area is a hotbed for farming, particularly orange and lemon orchards. The Goshikidai Skyline, a route that traverses the mountain’s plateau, offers breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Kagawa Prefecture
Once you’ve journeyed south to Shikoku, you’ll find yourself in Kagawa. There’s an abundance to see, discover and, not least, savour here. Kagawa Prefecture is renowned as the birthplace of a famous udon noodle. Sanuki udon boasts a chewy texture and is thicker than other noodles.
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