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Usui Third Bridge (Megane Bridge)

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Usui Third Bridge (Megane Bridge)

One of Japan’s largest four-arch bridges, where Meiji-era craftsmanship and red brick still remain.

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Quietly nestled in the mountains of Annaka, Gunma, the Usui Third Bridge, better known as Megane Bridge, is one of Japan’s largest brick arch bridges, completed in 1892. It is also designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan as a railway structure from the Meiji era, and its massive four connected arches, 91 meters long and 31 meters high, draw a graceful curve across the valley.

The bridge is said to have been built with Approx. 2 million bricks, and the technology of the time and the careful craftsmanship of its builders still live on in its appearance today. It is now maintained as part of a walking trail called the “Apt Road,” and you can also walk across the top of the bridge. Passing through tunnels and walking across the bridge over the ravine lets you experience the memory of the former railway for yourself.

In autumn, the fall colors add even more charm to the red brick, creating a spectacular, photogenic view that draws many travelers and photography lovers. This is an ideal spot for anyone who wants to enjoy a quiet moment and feel the weight of history in an extraordinary setting shaped by nature and structural beauty.

Highlights

  • One of Japan’s largest brick arch bridges, completed in the Meiji era and designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
  • The highlight is the graceful curve of the four connected arches stretching across the valley, built with Approx. 2 million bricks.
  • You can walk across the bridge as part of the Apt Road, offering a rare chance to experience a historic railway structure up close.
  • In autumn, the red brick and colorful leaves create a stunning, highly photogenic scenic spot.
  • In this extraordinary space where the ravine and history are in harmony, you can fully appreciate the quiet atmosphere and structural beauty.

Photos

  • The massive four connected arches are a striking sight. In autumn, enjoy them together with the fall colors

    The massive four connected arches are a striking sight. In autumn, enjoy them together with the fall colors

  • In summer, the contrast with the deep green surroundings is beautiful and captivating

    In summer, the contrast with the deep green surroundings is beautiful and captivating

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A

No.

Q

Are there any sightseeing spots nearby?
A

Usui Lake, Maruyama Substation Ruins, Former Kumonotaira Station, Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park, Onsen Resort Usui Touge no Mori Park

Q

Is there a parking lot?
A

Yes. Please use the “Megane Bridge Parking Lot,” located 300 meters from Usui Third Bridge, about a 5-minute walk away. It has space for 22 standard cars, including 1 priority space for visitors with disabilities, and 4 large buses. Parking reservations are not available.

Q

Are there restrooms?
A

There are restrooms at the Megane Bridge Parking Lot.

Reviews

2

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • mizuiro_lawson
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    Speaking of Usui Pass, there’s the old Japanese National Railways Shinetsu Main Line’s “Megane Bridge.” People back then really had good taste! It’s so beautiful. I end up stopping by every time I pass through.

  • 江珉涓
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    The red brick atmosphere is amazing—it feels like stepping back into the Meiji era.
    It’s especially beautiful in the fall. The maple leaves with the red brick bridge look just like a postcard.

Details

Name in Japanese
碓氷第三橋梁（めがね橋）
Postal Code
379-0307
Address
Sakamoto, Matsuida-machi, Annaka, Gunma
Phone
027-382-1111 (Annaka City Hall)
Closed on
Open year-round
Hours
Open year-round
Admission
Free
Access
Approx. 15 minutes by car from the Matsuida-Myogi IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway
Official website
Official website (Japanese)
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