Former JNR Shihoro Line Sannosawa Bridge

A Symmetrical Arch by the Lake

The Former JNR Shihoro Line Sannosawa Bridge (旧国鉄士幌線三の沢橋梁) is a three-span concrete arch bridge of 1955 in Kamishihoro, Kato District, Hokkaido, and was registered as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property (structure) on June 28, 2017 (Agency for Cultural Affairs).

The Agency records a three-span concrete arch bridge 50 metres long; registration number 01-0151.

Three Arches in Balance

The Former JNR Shihoro Line Sannosawa Bridge is a three-span concrete arch bridge built in 1955, when the line was rerouted, across the Sannosawa stream where it flows into Lake Nukabira (Agency for Cultural Affairs).

It is 50 metres long: a 15-metre arch over the stream with a 10-metre arch on each side (Agency for Cultural Affairs). The larger arch in the middle and the smaller pair either side make a symmetrical whole. It was built in the same year as the nearby Nukabira River Bridge.

Why It Was Registered

The Agency notes that its symmetrical row of arches adds to the lakeside landscape, and it was registered for its contribution to the historic landscape. Like the Nukabira River Bridge, it shows the concrete arch still in use on the rerouted line after the war.

What to Look For

Look for the balance of the design around the 15-metre central arch. Seen head-on, the two 10-metre arches flank it like a pair of supports.

Hokkaido Fan Magazine says you can cross the deck and that a path leads down beneath the bridge. From below, the curve and thickness of the arches are easier to read.

Visiting

Hokkaido Fan Magazine says there is a large car park near the bridge with room for coaches. No official information was found on winter access or the season when the car park is open.