The Eshima Ohashi Bridge, located in Japan, is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of modern engineering. Connecting the cities of Matsue and Sakaiminato across Nakaumi Lake, this remarkable structure has captured the imagination of people worldwide with its seemingly steep incline. But what makes this bridge so unique, and what secrets lie behind its dramatic appearance.

The Eshima Ohashi Bridge was built to replace a drawbridge that had become a major bottleneck in the region. The old bridge would often be lowered for road vehicles, only to be raised again for ships to pass underneath, causing significant delays and restrictions on traffic. The new bridge was designed to solve these problems by providing a high clearance for ships to pass beneath while still allowing heavy road vehicles to cross.

The bridge’s incline, which appears almost vertical from a distance, is actually quite modest. The average gradient is only 6.1% on the Shimane side and 5.1% on the Tottori side. This means that for every 100 meters traversed, vehicles ascend a mere 6.1 meters. The steepness is further exaggerated by the use of telephoto lenses in many photos, which compress the distance and make the incline seem even more dramatic.

The Eshima Ohashi Bridge is a masterpiece of engineering, with a length of 1.7 kilometers and a towering elevation of almost 45 meters. It is constructed primarily from prestressed concrete, chosen for its ability to withstand the immense weight and stress placed on the bridge due to its length and height. The bridge’s rigid-frame structure also allows it to withstand earthquakes up to magnitude seven on the Richter scale.

The Eshima Ohashi Bridge has become a popular tourist attraction, with visitors drawn to its unique appearance and the thrill of driving or cycling across it. The bridge offers breathtaking views of Lake Nakaumi and Mount Daisen, and visitors can even use free telescopes and binoculars to take in the sights.

The Eshima Ohashi Bridge is a remarkable structure that showcases the ingenuity and skill of modern engineering. Its seemingly steep incline may be intimidating at first, but it is actually a testament to the bridge’s ability to balance the needs of both road vehicles and ships. Whether you are an engineering enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, the Eshima Ohashi Bridge is a must-see destination in Japan