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Tsurunomai Bridge in Tsuruta Town, Aomori Prefecture , is the longest triple-arch wooden bridge in Japan, with a total length of over 300 meters.
With Tsugaru Fuji and Mt. Iwaki in the background, Tsuru-no-Mai(also known as Mawari-zeki Otameike Pond) is a tourist attraction that represents the region.
This article will provide an objective look at the structure, materials, and relationship to local culture of Tsuru-no-Mai Bridge
Structure and Features of Mai-no-Tsuruhashi
Tsurunomai Bridge – Daytime view
Bridge a triple drum structure . It is approximately 300 meters long and 3 meters wide, and opened to traffic in July 1994.
This bridge, which spans Lake Tsugaru Fujimi (also known as Mawarizeki Otameike) in Tsuruta Town, Aomori Prefecture, is a symbol of the town, with its graceful curves reflected on the lake's surface harmonizing with the view of Mount Iwaki. The design of the bridge is based on the image of a pair of cranes in flight
Aomori cypress trees, each estimated to be over 150 years old . The grain of the cypress changes depending on the angle of the light, showing different expressions throughout the seasons along with the surrounding scenery.
Aomori Hiba, in harmony with nature
Hiba leaves
Aomori cypress a wood representative of Aomori Prefecture , is a long-lasting wood that has been used since ancient times for temple and shrine construction, ship building, and more.
Hiba is rich in medicinal ingredients such as hinokitiol, and is known to be highly resistant to termites and mold. This antibacterial and insect repellent effect is not lost even after felling or processing, and it helps maintain the health of the wood for many years
The reason why the grain of Aomori hiba is so intricate and beautiful is because each tree grows slowly over hundreds of years. The strength of natural wood that has endured long periods of wind and snow, and its pale golden luster, are perhaps the greatest features of Aomori hiba
Preserving local culture and wooden construction techniques
Tsurunomai Bridge and the morning glow
Tsuru-no-Mai Bridge is a wooden structure that makes use of Aomori Prefecture's abundant forest resources, and by taking advantage of the excellent durability and anti-corrosion properties of hiba cypress, it has been designed to withstand the humid environments of cold regions
Since its opening, local residents have been cleaning and maintaining the bridge, and the town continues to work together to protect it. Since the 2020s, local workshops have been reusing and upcycling the cypress wood scraps generated during repairs into chopsticks and other woodwork
These activities are attracting attention as an attempt to pass on the relationship between trees and people to the next generation while utilizing local resources in a circular manner
Enjoy the experience of walking across the bridge
Tsurunomai Bridge – Night view (front)
Tsuru-no-Mai Bridge is about a 10-minute drive from Mutsu-Tsuruta Station on the JR Gono Line, and about 30 to 40 minutes from Hirosaki city. The park has a paid parking lot and walking trails, and you can enjoy picturesque beauty in any season, from cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and snowscapes
Tsurunomai Bridge – Night view
On sunny days, Mount Iwaki is reflected on the water's surface, and at times Tsuru-no-Mai Bridge looks like a staircase stretching into the sky. If you visit, be sure to visit twice, in the morning and in the evening. The impression of the bridge will be completely different just because the angle of the light changes
The Tsuru-no-Mai Bridge illumination event is also held regularly, usually around October to November
