History of Bandai Bridge
First generation
Once there was no bridge downstream of the Shinano River.The first Bandai Bridge was completed in 1886. It was built over the Shinano River as a long wooden bridge.
Initially, it was a privately owned toll bridge, but it was purchased by Niigata Prefecture in April 1900 and became a free bridge.
Second generation
On March 8, 1908, the great fire of Niigata destroyed more than half of the original Bandai Bridge.
Many people and carriages pass through Bandai Bridge, and it was an important bridge for traffic and could not be closed even for a day. Niigata Prefecture began construction immediately, and in December 1909, the second Bandai Bridge was completed.
Third generation(present)
In 1922, when the Ohkouzu diversion channel was completed, the Shinano River was readjusted and narrowed to 270m, a third of its original width.
This has made it possible to replace the bridge as a permanent bridge, and the construction was begun in July 1927, completed in August 1929, and is still in use today.
On 6th July 2004, the third-generation Bandai Bridge was designated as one of the Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
Also in the same year, its panel lights(streetlights) and spandrel lights(bridge wall lights) were restored to their original appearance based on drawings and specification dating from the time of the bridge's construction.