Ōta River Bridge 🇯🇵

If you are exploring Hiroshima, Japan, make sure to appreciate the engineering marvel of the Ōta River Bridge (also known as Otagawaohashi). Standing as the southernmost crossing of the Ōta River, this impressive structure carries Route 3—the Hiroshima Minami Route—of the Hiroshima Expressway. The idea for this crucial transport link began in 2004, leading to an international design competition in late 2008 that drew 21 entries.

The winning design, chosen in July 2009, was created by Kenichi Nishiyama of Eight-Japan Engineering Consultants alongside collaborators Yoko Kabaki, Akiyoshi Nii, and Hitoshi Okamura. Completed in 2014 by the Shimizu Corporation, the bridge offers visitors a chance to see award-winning modern infrastructure up close. As you take in the sight, you will observe a unique architectural balance: a composite prestressed concrete continuous rigid frame box girder reinforced with a sleek steel arch bridge stiffener.

This clever design was specially crafted to comply with strict local height restriction laws caused by the bridge's close proximity to the nearby Hiroshima–Nishi Airport. The thoughtful combination of civil engineering and aesthetic functionality earned the structure the prestigious Japan Society of Civil Engineers Tanaka Award, making it a must-see landmark for travelers interested in contemporary Japanese design.

What to see at Ōta River Bridge

• Southernmost crossing spanning the Ōta River in Hiroshima
• Winner of the Japan Society of Civil Engineers Tanaka Award
• Designed by Kenichi Nishiyama, Yoko Kabaki, Akiyoshi Nii, and Hitoshi Okamura
• Features a concrete box girder frame stiffened by a steel arch
• Constructed by Shimizu Corporation under strict airport height limits

Visiting tips

Observe how the structure's low arch design cleverly satisfies height restrictions due to the nearby Hiroshima–Nishi Airport.

How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Ōta River Bridge is easy to reach on Hiroshima’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Hiroshima Castle and Children's Peace Monument. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Hiroshima travel guide.