Irabu Bridge A Summer Crossing That Had Me Smiling

At midday in July, I was driving my red convertible across Irabu Bridge. The road stretched out over the sea toward Irabu Island. I've crossed bridges before, but the moment I started across this one, my heart began to race. I was making my own way across the stretch of water between the islands I'd been looking at on the map.

With both hands on the wheel, I kept my eyes on the road ahead. As the bridge rose and dipped, the view ahead shifted little by little. I thought driving over the sea might feel like something special, but I could simply drive as I always do and still be surrounded by all this. That made me so happy.

I caught myself smiling and laughed a little. I wasn't talking to anyone, and yet I couldn't stop smiling. If my friend had been beside me, she'd probably have said it was written all over my face. Even if she said that, I don't think I could hide it today.

Irabu Bridge is 3,540m long and connects Miyako Island and Irabu Island. I'd read about its length before setting out, but seeing the number and actually driving across the bridge felt completely different. Instead of thinking about how long it was, I was happy the drive was still going. Keeping my eyes on the road, I tightened my grip on the wheel.

I was thinking about what I'd do once I reached the island, too. From Irabu Island, I could drive on to Shimoji Island, so this crossing was only the start of the trip. I was excited to arrive, but I didn't want this drive to end either. Both feelings were real, so I guess I was being a little greedy.

After crossing the bridge, I thought back to the time I'd spent driving over the sea. Nothing dramatic had happened. And yet, there are places where simply driving along the road can make you this happy. Being able to discover that for myself behind the wheel became the best souvenir of the day.