🗺️ Danju Bekkawa Old Bridge (Shihoro Line Ruins)旧国鉄 士幌線タウシュベツ川橋梁跡

The Danju-betsu River Old Bridge in Kamishihoro Town, located in the northern part of Tokachi, is a bridge that spans the former Shihoro Line, which was abandoned due to the privatization of the old national railway. Typically, the bridge is submerged in the reservoir lake "Nukabira Lake," used for power generation, and it only becomes visible when the water level drops from winter to early summer, earning it the nickname "Phantom Bridge." This cement bridge is composed of 11 arched piers and has a total length of 130 meters. In January, when the lake freezes, the bridge, resembling an ancient Roman aqueduct, can be seen above the surface. Guided tours that allow visitors to walk on snowshoes across the frozen lake to the bridge are very popular in winter. In spring, when the water level is at its lowest, the bridge piers are fully exposed, and in June, the bridge appears to float on the clear lake surface, creating a beautiful scene. A viewpoint on National Route 273 also offers a view, but it is 750 meters away, making it a bit distant. The forest road leading to the bridge is restricted to authorized vehicles; for a closer look, visitors can choose a paid guided tour or borrow a gate key from a roadside rest area to drive there (for a fee, prior online reservation is required). As the bridge deteriorates year by year, the risk of collapse increases, so if you have the chance, it is highly recommended to see it in person.

The old bridge of the former National Rail Shihoro Line submerged in the dam lake of Kamikawa Town. The water level changes with the dam's flood discharge, and the bridge can only be seen from winter to early summer. It can be viewed from the observation deck, and local paid guided tours are also very popular. The bridge is deteriorating year by year, and the possibility of collapse is increasing annually. The road leading to the bridge is restricted to authorized vehicles only.