Ohmi-Ohdori (“Big Bird”) Bridge

Tandem bridges cross a reservoir in central Japan, half way between Tokyo and Osaka. Drivers speeding along through the countryside of rice fields and mountains come around a bend and see four elegant towers nestled within the forested hills.

The twin bridges were designed in a collaborative effort between American designers and Japanese engineers. J.A. Brennan developed the aesthetic design for the bridges by thoroughly exploring the site and researching Japanese architecture and culture. The aerodynamic design theme borrows lines from a crane spreading its wings, and is influenced by the classic shapes and colors of the local Shigaraki pottery tradition.

Client: Japan Highway Public Corp.
Location: Shiga Prefecture, Japan