18th JULY 2024 ~ I had actually never heard of Akashi Kaikyo Bridge but my trip to Kobe had brought me to see and get close and personal to this mega structure. Thanks to my ex-student [of SMK Taman Universiti], Mr. Muhammad Iqbal Hazlan, who was kind enough me to take me on a tour in the city.
We found out visitors were allowed to get to one level of the bridge by paying entry fee. This should be something that you should do when in Kobe.
The first part of the bridge tour was the glass enclosure which was like a viewing deck. One could sit down and enjoy the scenery through the glass panel. There was also a cafe and souvenir kiosk in the same area.
The second area of the bridge tour was the outer part without any glass panel. The visitors walked along the walkway and were protected by thick metal wires. You could feel the blowing wind outside and see the waves underneath. This should not be the place of people with acrophobia - ones who are afraid of height.
One could enjoy the picturesque scenery more clearly without being separated by the glass panels.
The most important thing, you could see the intricate and complicated design of the bridge closely. One was actually standing under the highways where there were moving vehicles.
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge would be one of the most significant architecture structures in Japan, and this should be the experience of a lifetime for me [and my ex-student too].
You could find more information of the bridge HERE.
