It is the only bridge spanning a major Japanese river that has been designated an Important Cultural Property by the national government.
The 1929 structure is the third bridge to carry the Bandai name at this specific location.
The granite tiles used on the exterior were imported from the Hiroshima prefecture area during construction.
Despite the severe 1964 earthquake that devastated surrounding infrastructure, the bridge remained structurally intact.
The bridge's design features six arches that were specifically calculated to accommodate the flow and depth of the Shinano River.
Bandai Bridge is a six-arch reinforced concrete bridge spanning the Shinano River in central Niigata City. Completed in 1929, it serves as the third iteration of the crossing and is recognized as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The bridge measures approximately 306 meters in length and features distinctive granite facade cladding. It survived the 1964 Niigata earthquake, which caused significant liquefaction throughout the city. The structure functions as a vital transit artery connecting the Niigata Station area with the historic Furumachi district. Its design is characterized by classic Roman-style aesthetics blended with early 20th-century Japanese engineering.
From the riverbanks at the north or south ends of the bridge looking upward at the arches.
Walk the pedestrian sidewalks on both sides to view the bridge's intricate granite detailing up close.
Visit the riverside park areas located directly beneath the bridge arches for a lower-angle perspective.
Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Hakusan Park.
Do not attempt to walk on the road surface; stay strictly on the designated pedestrian walkways to avoid heavy traffic.
