Is Eshima Ohashi Bridge Really That Steep?
219The Eshima Ohashi Bridge in Japan is often referred to as one of the “steepest” bridges in the world—but don’t let the photos fool you! When viewed from the front, the bridge looks like it rises sharply into the sky, giving the impression of a daunting slope. However, this steep appearance is just an optical illusion.
From the side view, the bridge has a gradual incline, with a slope of about 6.1% on one side and 5.1% on the other. The illusion is created by telephoto lenses that compress the distance, making the ramp appear far steeper than it really is.
The Eshima Ohashi Bridge spans 1.7 kilometers and connects the cities of Sakaiminato in Tottori Prefecture and Matsue in Shimane Prefecture, serving as a vital transportation link. Its design allows large ships to pass underneath, making the gradual incline practical for both vehicles and vessels.
So, while it may look terrifying from a certain angle, driving over it is much easier than it seems!