Built on July 8, 1994, the triple-arched Tsuru no Mai Bridge is Japan's longest wooden bridge and spans across Tsugaru Fujimi Lake, where the shadow of Mt. Iwaki is beautifully reflected on the water's surface. The bridge is 300 meters long with a gentle arch and is loved by many as a symbol of Tsuruta, a town known for cranes and international cultural exchanges. 

It is said that the bridge with Mt. Iwaki in the background resembles a crane flying in the sky, and that those who cross it will live a long life. 

The view of the bridge that emerges on the lake surface at dawn and the colors of the lake and bridge at sunset are a few reasons why tourists are drawn to this place. It is also a prime spot for photography enthusiasts. 

During winter, the bridge and promenade are cleared of snow so driving and sightseeing are possible. *In severe snow storms such as blizzards, roads may be closed due to poor visibility. 

At sundown, the bridge railings automatically illuminate and you can enjoy soft arched lighting reminiscent of glowing fireflies until 9 in the evening. Free Wi-Fi is available around the bridge. 

https://www.medetai-tsuruta.jp/15039.html

[About the facilities around the bridge]

Across the Tsuru no Mai Bridge is the Fujimi Lake Park and Tanchozuru Natural Park. The Fujimi Lake Park has a picnic area, amusement facilities, and a bbq area (advance reservation required), making it a popular spot for families. 

*The barbecuing area is currently closed and no longer taking reservations for 2020 due to COVID-19.

At the Tanchozuru Natural Park, you can see red-crowned cranes and admission is free every day from 9:00 to 16:00. 

In April 2020, a new tourist facility, Kokonimo Aruja opened near the parking lot of the bridge. Within walking distance is the Tsuru no Sato Furusato Kan, a history museum that utilizes a traditional folk house. Admission is free from 9:00 to 16:00 every day except from November to March. 

*Please contact the Tsuruta Town Hall, Planning and Tourism Department for business hours of each tourist facility in 2020. 

[MAP]

https://www.medetaitsuruta.jp/spot/sightseeing/fujimilakepark.html

[Additional information] 

There is a hot spring facility, Welfare Center Tsugaru Fujimiso, near the bridge. Visitors who do not have a reservation can use the hot spring for day trips and have meals at the restaurant. 

http://www.fujimisou.jp/page02/p02.htm 

The Tsuru no Mai Bridge Travel Guide will be available from mid-April to November. Danburi MikoPa no Kai will host the tour so please contact them for information on times, fees, arrangements for meeting guides, etc. 

<Tsuru no Mai Bridge Travel Guide - Danburi MikoPa no Kai>

 Chairman: (Masaaki Takenami) Phone: 090-7660-7386

[Access] 

From JR Mutsu-Tsuruda Station, we recommend taking a taxi from the station. 

When Otona no Kyujitsu Kurabu Pass is available, the four areas from JR Mutsu-Tsuruda Station to Tsuru no Mai Bridge (round trip) and Tsuru no Mai Bridge ⇒ Michi no Eki and Michi no Eki ⇒ JR Mutsu-Tsuruda Station will be approximately half price. Details will be posted on the town's tourism website Medetai Tsuruta. 

https://www.medetai-tsuruta.jp/

A thematic journey in the Tohoku region:Riverside