Overview
Hokawazu Bridge is a National Route 204 bridge spanning Hokawazu Inlet, which separates the Chinzei district of Karatsu City from Genkai Town in Saga Prefecture. This 252-meter arch bridge is famous as the world's first built using the truss cantilever method. Arching over a coastal inlet, it is a rewarding sight for anyone interested in civil engineering.
Highlights
- ●The world's first arch bridge by the truss cantilever method
- ●Its 252-meter scale
- ●The view of the bridge over Hokawazu Inlet
- ●Its Zenken Prize and JSCE Tanaka Prize honors
History
The bridge is an arch bridge built using the truss cantilever method for the first time in the world. In 1974, it received the Zenken Prize and the Tanaka Prize (works category) of the Japan Society of Civil Engineers.
Access
It spans Hokawazu Inlet, linking the Chinzei district of Karatsu City with Genkai Town, and carries National Route 204. As access is mainly by car, please check maps and official information for detailed routes and parking.
Best season
Because it arches over a coastal inlet, the elegant curve shows best on a clear, bright day when the air is crisp. The gentle light around dusk is also lovely.
Map
33.5154, 129.8480 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head toward Hokawazu Inlet along National Route 204
- 2Cross Hokawazu Bridge and take in its arch structure
- 3Enjoy the scenery of the inlet
- 4Explore the surroundings of Chinzei district and Genkai Town
Did you know?
💡 The bridge is 252 meters long and holds the distinction of being the world's first arch bridge built using the truss cantilever method.
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