Ryujin Ohtsuribashi

The Ryujin Big Suspension Bridge is a pedestrian-only bridge located in the Okukuji Prefectural Natural Park in Hitachiohta City, Ibaraki Prefecture, spanning the Ryujin Gorge. Positioned above the Ryujin Dam, which was created by damming the Ryujin River, the bridge boasts a length of 446 meters (between anchor points) and a central span of 375 meters, making it one of the largest pedestrian-only bridges in Japan. With a height of approximately 100 meters above the lake surface, it offers breathtaking views of the majestic mountain ranges of the Yatsugatake and Abukuma regions and the stunning seasonal changes of the gorge. Opened in Heisei 6 (1994), the bridge is set to undergo a significant repainting project in 2025, marking its first such work in about 12 years, transforming its appearance into a vibrant blue.

The bridge's design emphasizes safety and harmony with the landscape. It employs a truss-reinforced structure that can withstand strong winds, and the main towers are designed in the shape of a "dragon," reflecting the name of the gorge. The cables used are large-diameter, approximately 19 centimeters thick, consisting of 1,159 strands of 5-millimeter piano wire bundled together, each capable of withstanding around 1,000 tons of tension. Furthermore, about 5,000 cubic meters of concrete are utilized for the anchorage that secures the cables, ensuring safety even with 3,500 people crossing at once.

In the middle of the bridge, there are three acrylic "viewing windows" that allow visitors to look directly down at the lake surface of the Ryujin Dam. Visitors can also experience a 100-meter-high bridge bungee jump, an exceptionally rare activity that attracts over 10,000 thrill-seekers each year. Beyond the suspension bridge, there is the "Kizuna no Kane (Ryujin Carillon)" that rings with three clear tones representing love, hope, and happiness. Notably, the "Bell of Love" is designed so that two people can ring it simultaneously, making it a popular spot for couples, families, and friends.

Throughout the year, Ryujin Gorge hosts various seasonal events. In spring, the "Ryujin Gorge Carp Streamer Festival" showcases approximately 1,000 carp streamers dancing in the gorge; in summer, the "Wind Chime Festival" features around 1,000 wind chimes producing refreshing sounds; and in autumn, the entire gorge is enveloped in vibrant foliage during the "Autumn Leaves Festival," providing year-round enjoyment for visitors. The surrounding area boasts gift shops, restaurants, and well-maintained hiking trails for enjoying Kamegabu and nature walks, making it a representative tourist spot in Ibaraki Prefecture that combines nature, culture, and experience.