In late May’s morning light so fair,
Green-clad mountains, fresh spring air,
A red brick bridge, history’s tale,
Silent amidst the verdant trail.
Photo Description – The Silent Beauty of Megane Bridge
This photograph captures the serene beauty of the Megane Bridge (Spectacles Bridge) nestled within the lush greenery of Usui Pass in Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture. The vibrant red brick of the bridge stands in striking contrast to the surrounding verdant landscape. The bridge, a relic of Japan’s first Abt railway system, quietly endures as a symbol of historical and architectural significance.
Story Behind the Photo – A Glimpse into History at Usui Pass
Taken in the late morning of a late May day, this image showcases the Megane Bridge, a prominent structure in Usui Pass. Located at an elevation of 956 meters, Usui Pass straddles the border between Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture, and Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture. Once known as a “transportation bottleneck,” this location saw the introduction of Japan’s first Abt railway system. Completed in December 1892, the Megane Bridge is Japan’s largest brick arch bridge and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. The bridge is one of five remaining structures from the Abt railway era, spanning the Yokokawa to Karuizawa section, and is loved for its beautiful design and artistic structure.
From an Amateur Photographer’s Perspective – Capturing Timeless Elegance
The goal of this photograph was to capture the timeless elegance of the Megane Bridge amidst the lush greenery of Usui Pass. Using a wide-angle lens, I framed the bridge to highlight its red brick structure against the vibrant green backdrop. The challenge was to balance the exposure to bring out the rich colors of the brick and the surrounding foliage. This image aims to reflect the historical and architectural significance of the bridge, showcasing its serene and enduring beauty.
Equipment and EXIF Information
- Camera: Olympus PEN-F
- Lens: M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO
- Shutter Speed: 1/200 s
- Aperture: ƒ/8
- ISO: 400
Location