Megane Bridge (Usui No. 3 Bridge), Kanto Travel Guide

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Discover Japan's largest brick arch bridge, a marvel of Meiji-era engineering and a scenic destination for history and nature lovers.

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Megane Bridge (Usui No. 3 Bridge)

The Megane Bridge, also known as the Spectacles Bridge, is a historic stone arch bridge located in Annaka, Gunma Prefecture, Japan. Completed in 1892, it's the largest brick arch bridge in the country and a testament to Meiji-era engineering. Today, it stands as a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to walk along a former railway line and admire its impressive architecture.

A brief summary to Megane Bridge (Usui No. 3 Bridge)

地内 Matsuidamachi Sakamoto, Annaka, Matsuidamachi Sakamoto, Gunma, 379-0307, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Megane Bridge (Usui No. 3 Bridge).

Wear comfortable shoes for the walk along the Aputo Road to the bridge.
Bring a camera to capture the bridge's impressive architecture and the surrounding scenery.
Visit during spring or fall for the best views of the surrounding foliage.

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Explore Megane Bridge (Usui No. 3 Bridge) on the Map

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Getting There

Walking

From Yokokawa Station, the closest operating train station, follow the Aputo Road, a walking trail along the abandoned railway line. The walk to Megane Bridge takes some time, but the path is well-maintained. There is a cafe available along the way.
Bus

From JR Yokokawa Station, take the JR Bus Kanto (via the Usui Old Road Meganebashi) to Karuizawa Station and get off at the "Meganebashi" bus stop. The bus ride is approximately 13 minutes. Please note the operating days as this is a seasonal service.

Discover more about Megane Bridge (Usui No. 3 Bridge)

The Megane Bridge, or Spectacles Bridge, is a red-brick arch bridge that was once part of the Shinetsu Main Line, a railway that connected Tokyo with the Sea of Japan. Built in 1892, the bridge is an impressive feat of engineering, stretching 91 meters in length and 31 meters in height. At the time of its construction, Japanese officials cooperated with British engineer Pawnall, who had been invited by the Japanese government to complete the Usui Line.The bridge was abandoned in 1963 with the advent of new train lines. In 1993, it was designated as a National Important Cultural Asset, and in 2001, the Aputo Road walking trail was created, allowing visitors to walk across the bridge. The surrounding area offers scenic views, especially during spring and fall. The bridge is close to the Nakasendo route.Today, visitors can explore the Aputo Road, which follows the path of the old railway line, and marvel at the bridge's construction and the surrounding natural beauty. The walk to the bridge is long, but worth every minute. The abandoned railway walk to get there from the closest operating train station of Yokokawa-eki offers creative photo opportunities. There is also a café around halfway through the walk to take a break and rest with some food and drinks.