The phantom bridge that rises and falls on Lake Nukabira

Completed in 1937, it is a 130m long concrete arch bridge. It appears on the frozen lake surface in January when there is little water in the dam, begins to sink when the water level rises in May, and sinks to the bottom of the lake in summer. This is the only arch bridge in Japan that appears and disappears depending on the season, which is why it is called the Phantom Bridge.

■ Spectacles Bridge in late spring
The water level of the Taushubetsu River Bridge rises from May onwards as meltwater flows into Lake Nukabira. In the early mornings in particular, there is less wind and less waves than during the day, so the bridge is reflected on the lake's surface, and the arch looks circular like spectacles, hence the name "spectacles bridge."

■ A lonely figure emerges from the snowy plains in the harsh winter
The thick ice of Lake Nukabira, which begins to freeze over in December, breaks and reappears in January. From that time onwards, you can go and see the Taushubetsu River Bridge against the blue of a clear winter day and the white of the snowy fields.

■ Early spring shows its spectacular appearance
Just before Golden Week, the Taushubetsu River Bridge is revealed in its entirety. This is also the time when the water level of Lake Nukabira is at its lowest in the year. Its entire shape is revealed on the rough ground at the bottom of the lake. If you look from the southern shore, the snow-capped Mt. Nipesotsu in the background adds to the beauty of the bridge.