🗺️ Wakato Bridge若戸大橋

The Wakatō Bridge, spanning across the Dokai Bay, is a general road that includes a suspension bridge measuring 627 meters in length, with a total length of about 2 kilometers. It was opened in 1962 (Showa 37) and is the first authentic long suspension bridge built in Japan. The red bridge, connecting the Wakamatsu and Tobata districts of Kitakyushu, is a local symbol and was designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 2022. The illuminated bridge at night is also listed as one of Japan's Night View Heritage sites. The Wakatō Bridge is only open for vehicle traffic; however, on the Tobata district side, there is the Tobata Riverside Green Space at the bridge pier, where visitors can sit on benches and leisurely enjoy the view of the illuminated bridge and the sunset. The area on the Wakamatsu district side is lined with nostalgic buildings from the Taisho era, such as the Ueno Building and the Old Furukawa Mining Wakamatsu Building, making it a popular tourist attraction. The Wakatō Bridge is illuminated year-round at night, with lighting from sunset until 10 PM, making it a recommended spot to enjoy the romantic night view that has been designated as one of Japan's Night View Heritage sites.

The red suspension bridge was opened in 1962. It is Japan's first authentic long suspension bridge and was designated as an important cultural property in 2022. On the Tobata side, there is a waterfront green space set up at the bridge's pier. The Wakamatsu side is lined with buildings from the Taisho era, making it a popular tourist attraction.