The Mikobata and Habuchi bridges were completed in 1885 and 1887, respectively. Built as part of the Ore Road (Koseki no Michi) that connected the Akenobe, Mikobata, and Ikuno mining towns to the Silver Mine Carriage Road (the Ikuno Kozanryo Bashamichi, now known as the Gin no Bashamichi), they were made of cast iron to support heavy traffic between the mines and the southern port of Himeji. The Mikobata Bridge, first along the route, is the oldest cast-iron bridge and third-oldest iron bridge in Japan. Originally there were five bridges along the Ore Road, but only the Mikobata and Habuchi bridges remain.
In 1995 the riverbed was widened to prevent flooding, and the Habuchi Bridge was moved. The Mikobata Bridge, however, is still in its original location and in 1977 became a National Heritage Site.
Cultural Property Data:
Spot Name | Mikobata Cast Iron Bridge / Habuchi Cast Iron Bridge |
---|---|
Designation | |
Address | Asago City |