Kamishihoro, Hokkaido
A long bridge crossing the autumn forest Take in the autumn colours at Mikuni Pass, then wrap both hands around a cup and take a break
At Mikuni Pass in autumn, the broad curve of Matsumi Ōhashi winds through the forest. I’d love to get out of the car partway through the drive and take a break while I look out at the trees and bridge.
An autumn morning drive to take in golden leaves, deep-green conifers and Matsumi Ōhashi.
AutumnLate September to early October · morning
Both hands around my cup, watching the bridge in the forest
It was an autumn morning, and I’d driven National Route 273 to Mikuni Pass. I parked and took in the view: Matsumi Ōhashi stretched through the forest below. I’d seen the road from the bridge itself, but from here I could really make out its curve. Bright autumn leaves stood out among the deep-green conifers, and I could’ve stayed there looking down into the valley.
Matsumi Ōhashi is a red arch bridge about 330 m long. The curve came into view from behind the trees in front of me, then carried on into the forest beyond. When I’m driving, the next bend is always coming up. But standing still, I find myself wondering about the structures supporting the bridge, too. So this is what a road through the forest looks like from the outside.
I wrapped both hands around the cup of coffee I’d brought, holding it in front of my chest. Even with my brown cardigan on, the wind blowing through the pass was a little chilly. As I brought the cup closer, I could really smell the coffee. I took a sip, then looked back at the bridge. I was happy to take my time like that, and it felt like a proper break in the middle of the trip.
Beyond the bridge, one mountain ridge after another stretched across the view. Looking from the nearby trees to the distant mountains, I started to see just how vast the autumn forest was. I hear the name Mikuni Pass comes from where Ishikari, Tokachi and Kitami once met. Thinking about all the places the roads lead from here makes choosing where to drive next more fun, too. I looked up at the distant mountains once more, cup still in hand.
Mikuni Pass café also serves hand-drip coffee made with beans roasted in-house. Today, this view has made me love coffee breaks even more. I finished my coffee and put the cup away, but I still couldn’t bring myself to get back in the car. I took one last look at the curve of Matsumi Ōhashi and the autumn forest. I’m already looking forward to tracing today’s route on a map when I get home.
The story sections are fiction inspired by this location. For accurate information, please consult official tourism and information websites.
Local specialty
Coffee at Mikuni Pass café
The café serves hand-drip coffee made with beans roasted in-house. I’d like to stop here for a coffee while taking in the mountain scenery.
Highlights
Matsumi Ōhashi across the forest
This red arch bridge stretches about 330 m and sweeps in a broad curve through the forest. Once I parked, I could trace the curve with my eyes and enjoy seeing the road I’d just driven from a new angle.
Where three former provinces meet
Mikuni Pass takes its name from the old boundary between Ishikari, Tokachi and Kitami. I’d like to trace the roads crossing the mountains on a map, too.
Road and trip details
National Route 273: Mikuni Pass and Matsumi Ōhashi
- Length of Matsumi Ōhashi
- About 330 m
- Elevation of Mikuni Pass
- 1,139m
A mountain road linking Tokachi and Sounkyo Gorge. I’d love to stop along the way and take in the bridge’s curve and the autumn forest.
Mikuni Pass is the highest point on a national route in Hokkaido. I’d love to pair a drive on National Route 273 with a break to take in the forest.
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