Usui Third Bridge / Megane Bridge (Gunma Prefecture) Complete Guide
The Usui Third Bridge, located in Sakamoto, Matsui-ta Town, Anaka City, Gunma Prefecture, is affectionately known as the “Megane Bridge” and is a representative historical structure of Japan. This beautiful brick arch bridge from the Meiji era, which embodies the pinnacle of railroad technology, continues to captivate many tourists today.
What is the Usui Third Bridge (Megane Bridge)?
The Usui Third Bridge is a railroad bridge on the Shin’etsu Main Line that was completed in 1892 (Meiji 25). Spanning the Usui River, this bridge is a 4-arch bridge with a total length of 91 meters and a height of 31 meters, and is known as the largest brick arch bridge in Japan.
More than approximately 2 million bricks were used in construction, all of which were stacked by hand. The bridge earned the affectionate name “Megane Bridge” because the beautiful curves of the arches and the appearance of the red brick resemble eyeglasses.
Value as a National Important Cultural Property
The Usui Third Bridge was designated as a National Important Cultural Property in 1993 (Heisei 5). It is highly valued for its historical and cultural significance as a precious industrial heritage that conveys Meiji-era railroad technology to the present day.
As a representative example of railroad infrastructure that supported Japan’s modernization, it holds an extremely important position in the history of civil engineering and architecture. Among railroad bridges built during the Meiji era, few examples have been preserved in such excellent condition, and this structure is a precious testimony to the high level of construction technology of that time.
History of the Usui Pass and the Shin’etsu Main Line
To understand the Usui Third Bridge, it is important to know the railroad history of the Usui Pass.
The Usui Pass as a Difficult Crossing
The Usui Pass, located at the border between Gunma and Nagano Prefectures at an elevation of approximately 960 meters, has long been known as a difficult crossing for transportation. During the Edo period, an important checkpoint on the Nakasendo Road was established here, and many travelers passed through.
With the advent of the Meiji era, plans were made to construct a railroad line connecting Tokyo and the Japan Sea side, but this steep terrain posed a major obstacle. The section from Yokokawa Station to Karuizawa Station covered only 11.2 kilometers with an elevation difference of 553 meters, and a maximum gradient of 66.7 permille (rising 66.7 meters for every 1000 meters traveled)—an unprecedented steep grade in Japanese railroad history.
Introduction of Abt Rack Railway
To overcome this steep grade, Japan adopted the Abt rack railway system for the first time. The Abt system is a method in which the gear of a locomotive meshes with a rack rail (a toothed rail) installed in the center of the track, a technology developed by Swiss engineer Roman Abt.
The Abt rack railway operated on the Usui Pass section from 1893 (Meiji 26) to 1963 (Showa 38), for approximately 70 years. The Usui Third Bridge was one of the important structures that supported this Abt rack railway era.
From Closed Line to Tourist Resource
In 1963, conversion from the Abt system to adhesion (conventional railroad) took place, and with the opening of a new line, the old line including the Usui Third Bridge was discontinued. Furthermore, in 1997 (Heisei 9), with the opening of the Nagano Shinkansen (now the Hokuriku Shinkansen), the section of the Shin’etsu Main Line from Yokokawa to Karuizawa stations was completely closed.
However, this historically valuable closed railroad line was developed as the “Apto no Michi” (Abt Trail) by Anaka City and is now open to the public as a walking trail. It has created new value as a precious tourist spot where visitors can actually walk across the former railroad bridge.
Architectural Features of the Megane Bridge
Brick Construction Technique
The construction of the Usui Third Bridge used more than approximately 2 million bricks. These bricks were fired locally and each one was carefully stacked by skilled craftsmen.
The method of stacking bricks is called “English bond,” in which the header (short face of the brick) and stretcher (long face) are alternately placed to increase strength. Stone lime mortar, rather than cement mortar, was used for joining, which is one reason why the structure maintains excellent preservation conditions even after more than 130 years.
Beauty of the 4-Arch Structure
The greatest feature of the Usui Third Bridge is its beautiful structure of four continuous arches. Each arch has a span of approximately 12 meters, and the height from the arch apex to the valley floor reaches a maximum of 31 meters.
Arch bridges are structurally capable of efficiently distributing forces, allowing them to support large loads. The Meiji-era engineers selected a structure optimal for this terrain and purpose, creating a masterpiece combining functionality and aesthetic beauty.
Design and Construction
The design of the Usui Third Bridge was carried out by Japanese engineers under the guidance of British technical advisor Charles Pomerel, a railroad ministry technician. Construction began in 1891 (Meiji 24) and was completed in just over a year.
At that time, Japan had little experience in constructing large-scale brick structures, so Japanese craftsmen acquired advanced techniques while receiving guidance from foreign engineers. The construction of this bridge became an important turning point in the development of Japan’s modern civil engineering technology.
Walking the Apto no Michi Trail
The greatest attraction of visiting the Usui Third Bridge is the ability to actually walk across the bridge. The walking trail “Apto no Michi,” which utilizes the former Shin’etsu Main Line right-of-way, extends approximately 6 kilometers from Yokokawa Station to the remains of Kumano-hira Station.
Overview of the Walking Trail
The Apto no Michi is a walking trail that makes use of the former railroad tracks. You can observe tunnels, bridges, and other former railroad facilities up close while walking, creating an almost time-slip experience.
The trail is open all day, but tunnel lighting is available from 7:00 to 18:00. For safety, it is recommended to visit during the hours when lighting is provided.
Access Routes to the Megane Bridge
There are two main ways to approach the Megane Bridge.
1. Pedestrian Access from the Parking Lot
From the Megane Bridge dedicated parking area, you can reach the Megane Bridge on foot in approximately 5 minutes. The parking lot is free to use and has approximately 50 parking spaces. This is the most convenient access method.
From the parking lot, there are both a path that goes under the bridge and a path that leads up onto the bridge. It is recommended to first view the entire bridge from below, then walk across the top of the bridge.
2. Walking the Apto no Michi from Yokokawa Station
This route starts at JR Yokokawa Station and walks approximately 2.5 kilometers (about 40 minutes on foot) along the Apto no Michi to reach the Megane Bridge. Along the way, you pass the Usui First, Second, and Fourth Bridges, as well as several tunnels.
This route is highly recommended for those with time to spare, as it allows you to walk through a historic railroad site and successively view structures representing the pinnacle of Meiji-era railroad technology, allowing you to experience the history of the Usui Pass railroads firsthand.
Views from the Bridge
Standing on the Megane Bridge, you can overlook the Usui River gorge below and the surrounding mountains. Especially during the fall foliage season, the trees colored in red and yellow harmonize beautifully with the red of the brick, creating a breathtaking sight.
From the bridge, you can also observe the brick arch structure up close. You will be able to confirm with your own eyes the high level of skill of the craftsmen from more than 130 years ago.
Attractions by Season
The Usui Third Bridge presents different faces throughout the four seasons.
Spring: Season of New Growth
In spring, the trees around the bridge come into leaf, and the vibrant new green creates a beautiful contrast with the red of the brick. The sound of snowmelt water flowing through the Usui River is pleasant, making spring an ideal season for hiking.
Summer: Red Brick in Deep Green
In summer, you can enjoy the Megane Bridge enveloped in deep green. Due to its high elevation, summer remains relatively cool, making it popular as a summer retreat. Early morning mist sometimes fills the air, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
Autumn: Famous Autumn Foliage Spot
The Usui Third Bridge is also known as one of Gunma Prefecture’s representative autumn foliage viewing spots. Peak foliage usually occurs from late October to early November, and the collaboration between the red brick arches and the autumn leaves is spectacular.
During the foliage season, many photography enthusiasts visit and enjoy photography from various angles. The time when morning light illuminates the bridge is particularly renowned for producing the most beautiful photographs.
Winter: Megane Bridge in a Snowy Landscape
In winter, you can see the Megane Bridge covered in snow. The contrast between the white snow and red brick offers a beauty distinct from other seasons. However, as the walking trail may be frozen during winter, it is important to wear slip-resistant shoes and exercise caution when visiting during the winter season.
Nearby Attractions
There are many other attractive spots in the area around the Megane Bridge.
Usui Pass Railroad Culture Village
A railroad-themed park adjacent to JR Yokokawa Station. It features exhibits related to the railroad history of the Usui Pass and displays of vehicles that were actually in use, allowing for a deeper understanding of the historical background of the Megane Bridge. Mini steam trains and hand-car trolleys are also operated, making it popular with families.
Former Maruyama Substation
A beautifully constructed brick building located along the Apto no Michi. Completed in 1912 (Meiji 45), it was used for electrification of the Usui Pass. This building is also designated as a National Important Cultural Property and is worth viewing together with the Megane Bridge.
Kumano-hira Station Ruins
Located at the endpoint of the Apto no Michi, this area formerly functioned as a signal station on the Shin’etsu Main Line. Now in ruins, the platform and building foundations remain, allowing you to sense the remnants of earlier times.
Karuizawa
Karuizawa, located approximately 30 minutes by car from the Megane Bridge, is one of Japan’s leading resort destinations. It offers abundant attractions including shopping at the Old Karuizawa Ginza, natural scenery such as Shiraito Falls, and visits to historic churches. Many tourists visit Karuizawa in conjunction with the Megane Bridge.
Access Information
Access by Car
From Tokyo
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Matsui-ta Myogi IC” on the Kan’etsu Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Matsui-ta Myogi IC” on the Joshin’etsu Expressway
From Nagano
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Usui Karuizawa IC” on the Joshin’etsu Expressway
It is convenient to set “Megane Bridge Parking Lot” (Sakamoto, Matsui-ta Town, Anaka City, Gunma Prefecture) as your destination on your car navigation system or map app. The parking lot is free and can accommodate approximately 50 vehicles. During busy seasons such as the autumn foliage season, the parking lot may reach capacity, so it is recommended to arrive early.
Access by Public Transportation
Train
- Get off at “Yokokawa Station” on the JR Shin’etsu Main Line
- Approximately 40-minute walk (approximately 2.5 km) from Yokokawa Station along the Apto no Michi
- Or approximately 10 minutes by taxi
Bus
- An Anaka City municipal bus (seasonal service) may be available from Yokokawa Station. It is recommended to confirm the service status in advance with the Anaka City Tourism Association.
Day Trip Plan from Tokyo
For a day trip from Tokyo to the Megane Bridge, the following schedule is recommended.
- 8:00 Depart from Tokyo (by car or train)
- 10:00 Arrive at Megane Bridge, explore and photograph
- 12:00 Lunch in the area
- 13:00 Visit Usui Pass Railroad Culture Village or Karuizawa
- 16:00 Depart from the area
- 18:00 Arrive at Tokyo
If you have more time, a course that covers the entire Apto no Michi is also recommended. In that case, departing from Yokokawa Station and traveling a round trip of approximately 12 kilometers (approximately 4-5 hours) passing the Megane Bridge, the former Maruyama Substation, and ending at the Kumano-hira Station ruins offers an enjoyable hiking experience.
Important Notes for Your Visit
Clothing and Gear
- Wear comfortable walking shoes (sneakers or hiking shoes)
- Although the Apto no Michi is paved, some areas inside tunnels may be slippery
- Prepare appropriate clothing for the season (sun protection in summer, warm clothing in winter)
- It is recommended to bring beverages (there are few vending machines in the surrounding area)
Safety Precautions
- The Megane Bridge has railings, but as it is at a height, exercise caution
- Especially when with small children, do not take your eyes off them
- Tunnels have lighting, but a flashlight or headlamp is convenient
- Exercise caution on rainy days or after rain, as the ground is slippery
- In winter, check the conditions in advance due to the possibility of snow or freezing
Photography Etiquette
- Be considerate of other tourists
- When using a tripod, choose a location that does not obstruct passage
- Drone use may be restricted; check in advance
Facility Information
Address
Sakamoto, Matsui-ta Town, Anaka City, Gunma Prefecture
Viewing Hours
- Megane Bridge / Apto no Michi: Open all day
- Tunnel lighting hours: 7:00 to 18:00
Admission
Free
Parking Lot
Megane Bridge Parking Lot: Free, approximately 50 spaces
Contact
Anaka City Tourism Association
TEL: 027-382-1111
Official Website
The latest information is available on the Anaka City Tourism Association website.
Making the Most of the Megane Bridge’s Appeal
The Usui Third Bridge / Megane Bridge is more than just a tourist attraction. It is a masterpiece of Japan’s industrial heritage, completed with the passion of engineers and craftsmen as Japan advanced toward becoming a modern nation during the Meiji era.
This bridge, which remains beautiful and strong after more than 130 years, conveys the technical skill and hope for the future of the people of that time to the present. Stand on the bridge itself and, while feeling the history inscribed in each brick, reflect on the Meiji era.
Surrounded by nature that changes with each season, the Megane Bridge, which combines historical value and beauty, is a place where new discoveries can be made no matter how many times you visit. When you visit Gunma Prefecture, be sure to visit this wonderful cultural property.
Summary
The Usui Third Bridge / Megane Bridge is a brick 4-arch bridge from the Meiji era located in Anaka City, Gunma Prefecture, and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Completed in 1892, this bridge spans 91 meters in length and stands 31 meters high, making it known as the largest brick arch bridge in Japan.
Currently developed as the walking trail “Apto no Michi” using the former railroad right-of-way, you can actually walk across the bridge. The beautiful scenery harmonizing with the surrounding nature particularly captivates many tourists during the autumn foliage season.
Access by car is convenient, with the parking lot just a 5-minute walk away and free to use. If walking from JR Yokokawa Station, it takes about 40 minutes, but the hiking experience while enjoying railroad heritage along the way is also popular. It is possible to visit as a day trip from Tokyo, and it is recommended to combine your visit with nearby Karuizawa or the Usui Pass Railroad Culture Village.
As an industrial heritage representing the pinnacle of Meiji-era technology and as a beautiful tourist destination, the Usui Third Bridge / Megane Bridge is a place worth visiting.
