Dream Lens (Sculptor: Keizo Ushio)
The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge is the embodiment of half a century of technology. This monument was erected in the year of the fifth anniversary of the bridge to honor the great achievement of the “father” of the bridge Dr. Chujiro Haraguchi (the 12th mayor of Kobe City). The Moebius strip made of rock with three different types of surface represents people, nature, and science. It also represents the main island of Japan, Awaji Island, and Shikoku, which are connected by the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge. These three layers harmonize well, expressing hope for development in the future.
Gallery
Facilities
-
Maiko Marine Promenade
The Maiko Marine Promenade is a 317 meter-long promenade constructed in the bridge girder, located approximately 47 meters above sea level. On a sunny day, you can get a full view of Awaji Island, as well as Osaka Bay and the Seto Inland Sea. There is an observation lounge in the center. A restaurant is also available.
-
Former Residence of the Kinoshita Family
The Former Residence of the Kinoshita Family is a modern Japanese residence built in 1941 in the sukiyazukuri architectural style. It is particularly valuable because it has kept its appearance since its founding, as other Japanese residences in Osaka and Kobe have been gradually disappearing since the Hanshin/Awaji Great Earthquake. It is registered as a national tangible cultural property.
-
Former Residence of Sanji Muto(Former"Kanebo Maiko Club")
The Former Residence of Sanji Muto(Former"Kanebo Maiko Club"), also known as The Old Kanebo Maiko Club, was built at Maiko Beach in 1907 by Muto Sanji (1867-1934), who is said to be the restorer of Kanebo, and was a member of the House of Representatives.
-
Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall (Ijokaku)
The Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall is a rare building in that it was constructed with an old technique called wooden-frame concrete block construction. It is registered as a national important cultural property in 2001.
-
Dream Lens
The monument “Dream Lens,” created by a sculptor Keizo Ushio, was installed to commemorate the 5th anniversary of the foundation of the Akashi-Kaikyo Ohashi Bridge, and also to praise the achievement of the 12th mayor of Kobe City, Chujiro Haraguchi. Mr. Haraguchi is the “father” of the bridge, whose construction took half a century.
-
Maiko Park Pine Forest
Maiko Beach has been featured in poetry since the days of an ancient anthology of Japanese poems called the Manyoshu, and its sandy seashore dotted with pine trees has been a familiar sight to many people through the ages. Since opening on July 25th, 1900, this pine forest of scenic beauty has been frequented by many visitors.