This is the Saikai City Tourism Association in Nagasaki Prefecture. Here is an introduction to Saikai Bridge, which links Saikai City and Hariō in Sasebo City. The cold days continue, but from around February the Kawazu cherry blossoms begin, followed by Somei-yoshino at the end of March, offering stunning scenery to enjoy! "Nationally Designated Important Cultural Property: Saikai Bridge" This red bridge connects Inoura-go in Seihi, Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture, with Hario Higashi-machi in Sasebo City. Saikai Bridge was built across the Inoura Seto, one of Japan’s three great tidal currents, in October 1955 (Showa 30) to link Sasebo City and the Nishisonogi Peninsula (Saikai City). The bridge has a total length of 316 m and stands 42 m above the sea surface. At the time, Saikai Bridge was the third largest bridge of its type in the world and the largest in Asia. It took four years from the start of construction to completion, accomplished with Japan’s highest engineering standards. Because whirlpools up to 10 m in diameter form in Inoura Seto, it was impossible to erect piers in the sea during construction. A precision method called the cantilevered launching suspension method was used, assembling from both shores and closing at the center. On December 23, 2020 (Reiwa 2), it became the first postwar-built bridge designated as a National Important Cultural Property. "Saikai Bridge Park" A 37 ha sightseeing park surrounding Saikai Bridge. The park offers plenty of play equipment such as an athletic course and a sledding slope, making it popular with families. It’s also great for picnics with a packed lunch. In spring, you can enjoy views of about 1,000 cherry trees with Saikai Bridge in the background. "New Saikai Bridge" A light-blue bridge completed in 2006 (Heisei 18) as part of the toll Pearl Line. The main span is 300 m, the inlet section is 320 m, and the total length is 620 m. A promenade runs beneath the road, and observation windows let you peer down at the sea. The view from directly above during the spring spring tide in March, when whirlpools occur, is spectacular! Both the Saikai and Sasebo sides offer parking lots large enough for coach buses and equipped with restrooms. Please come and visit Saikai City in Nagasaki Prefecture.