The Chikugo River Bascule Bridge is Japan's only operating bascule bridge. It's a breathtaking spot where you can enjoy the magnificent Chikugo River while experiencing the history of this former railway bridge.
Historic Sites
National Treasure
World Heritage
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Highlights
Japan's only operating bascule bridge
Designated a National Important Cultural Property
Panoramic views of the majestic Chikugo River and surroundings
Take the Saga City bus bound for Hayatsukae from JR Saga Station on the Nagasaki Main Line (JR Nagasaki Honsen). It's a 25-minute ride, and you'll get off at the Shokaikyo bus stop. A 5-minute walk from there will get you to the bridge.
Alternatively, take a bus from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station on the Nishitetsu Tenjin-Omuta Line to Saga Station. A 25-minute ride, then a 10-minute walk from the Okawa-hashi bus stop.
By car: 40 minutes from Miyama-Yanagawa IC on the Kyushu Expressway.
30 minutes from Higashi-Sebifu IC on the Nagasaki Expressway. Show route
Op.Hours
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Cld.Days
Every Monday (the following day if Monday is a holiday), December 29th to January 3rd
Fee
Free
INFO
The bridge may be closed due to weather conditions, and operating hours may be affected by large vessel traffic. Pets and motorcycles are prohibited on the bridge. Bicycles are permitted only if dismounted. A donation box for bridge maintenance is located in front of the office in the center of the bridge.
The Chikugo River Bascule Bridge, opened in 1935, is a 507.2-meter-long bascule bridge that once carried the JR Saga Line. As the oldest surviving bascule bridge in Japan, where a section of the bridge deck moves vertically, it was once known as the "Number One Bascule Bridge in the Orient."
Its construction was influenced by the geographical location at the mouth of the Chikugo River, directly affected by the tides of the Ariake Sea. With a busy port nearby, the frequent passage of large ships made a traditional fixed bridge impossible. Therefore, a central section was designed to lift, allowing for safe ship passage.
The Saga Line closed on March 27, 1987, before the privatization of Japanese National Railways, and the bridge was subsequently closed. Although demolition was considered, strong local support led to its preservation. In 1992, it was transferred free of charge from the Japanese National Railways Settlement Corporation to Okawa City. It reopened in 1996 as a pedestrian walkway, becoming a symbol of both Okawa City and Suketome Town.
Parks are situated at either end of the bridge, preserving monuments depicting the bridge's original appearance, and showcasing three-light signal equipment and warning devices used on the Saga Line. An office in the central section of the bridge houses exhibits on its mechanism and history.
Designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, the Chikugo River Bascule Bridge is also recognized as a Mechanical Heritage (No. 23) by the Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers. Today, it serves not only as a tourist attraction but also as a beloved recreation spot for locals, offering a valuable glimpse into history and culture.
Experience the history and engineering marvel of the Chikugo River Bascule Bridge for yourself!
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