The Pearl Gate Bridge, also known as the “Akashi Strait Bridge”, is located in Japan. It was the longest suspension bridge ever created when it opened to the public in April 5, 1998. The Pearl Gate Bridge connects the island of Honshu, to the island Awaji, both considered to be part of Japan. It is one of the longest suspension bridges, with six lanes of traffic, and spanning 1,991 miles.

The Pearl Gate Bridge is able to hold so much weight, because of all the cables under tension. The tension keeps the bridge steady and compact. Its truss support is made of triangles and squares that are put together in a very stable, load bearing form.

Related Stories:

https://interestingengineering.com/7-interesting-facts-about-akashi-kaikyo-bridge-in-japan

https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/publicroads/98julaug/worlds.cfm

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Akashi Strait, Japan