Kurushima Straits Bridge
This bridge connects the island of Ōshima to Shikoku. It’s the world’s longest suspension bridge structure. It consists of three successive suspension bridges with six towers and four anchorages. It spans the Kurushima Straits, a very busy waterway with rapid tidal currents that create whirlpools on its surface.
Bicycles can be hired and dropped off at road stations at either end of the bridge, where long, looping ramps go up to the road. These look challenging, but they’re no problem for casual cyclists on bikes with gears. Cycling across the bridge is exhilarating in any season, with amazing views over the Inland Sea.
In the middle of the bridge is a small island called Umashima which you can explore on your bicycle by taking the lift down from the roadway. There’s a pretty shrine with a lighthouse and a couple of nice beaches.
The towers of the bridges can be climbed with special permission from the bridge authorities.
Information
Name in Japanese: 来島海峡大橋
Pronunciation: kuroo-sheema kaikyō ō-hashee
Address: Imabari, Ehime Prefecture, Japan
