Located in the western end of Oita Prefecture, Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi Bridge holds the record for Japan’s longest and tallest bridge specifically designed for pedestrians. For an unforgettable stroll with fantastic views, look no further than this walk through the sky!
A Grassroots Bridge
Photo by: PIXTA/ marumaru More than 12 million visitors have come to cross the great expanse.
The construction of the Kokonoe Yume Suspension Bridge began in May 2004 and was completed two and a half years later at the end of October 2006. Unlike most bridges, this one was entirely funded without the aid of prefectural or national government subsidies, a point of local pride considering that the total cost was nearly ¥2 billion.
Just as its creation came out of the local community, so too did its name, as yume, meaning dream, was the winning selection out of nearly 6000 entries from the public. Anticipation for the new project was staggering which can be seen in the one million people who came to cross it in the first six months of opening. As of November 2021, more than 12 million visitors have come to cross the great expanse.
The View
Photo by: PIXTA/ フォトクリエイト The view from the bridge has plenty of incredible sights.
Suspended 173 meters over the Nakuro River and stretching 390 meters long, this bridge has plenty of incredible sights. It helps to be situated near the Kuju mountain range which boasts its own records including the highest peaks in Kyushu. As a result, visitors can see many of these towering titans, including Mounts Daizen (1729 m), Mimatayama (1745 m) and Kuju (1791 m). Another treat is Shindono Falls which is a set of three falls: the child, female and male falls.
The Male Falls, O-daki has the honor of being one of the 100 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan and reaches a height of over 88 meters. For a different vantage point, check out the observation deck overlooking the bridge and the surrounding area.
Seasonal Sights
Photo by: PIXTA/ Y.BLUE The bridge is home to several seasonal events throughout the year.
Visitors making the trek in the early spring, particularly in April and May, will be treated to a fresh sea of green from the thick forest below. If your destination dates fall in November, the once-green foliage will have transformed into fiery reds and oranges.
Come January and February, the valley below will have a light sprinkling of snow making for a truly magical winter wonderland. To accompany the changing scenery, the bridge is also home to several seasonal events throughout the year.
