Hi Lykkers! Suspension bridges are marvels of engineering, stretching across vast distances and offering stunning views of landscapes.

These bridges not only serve as vital transportation links but also stand as testaments to human ingenuity.

Below are the top 10 longest suspension bridges in the world, showcasing both their immense lengths and remarkable design!

1. Akashi Kaikyō Bridge (Japan)

At the top of the list, the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge holds the title of the longest suspension bridge in the world. Spanning 3,911 meters (12,831 feet) across the Akashi Strait in Japan, it connects the city of Kobe to Awaji Island. Completed in 1999, this engineering feat was built to withstand earthquakes, high winds, and harsh maritime conditions, making it a marvel of resilience.

2. Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge (China)

Although technically not a suspension bridge, the Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge deserves a mention due to its vast length of 164.8 kilometers (102.4 miles). It is the longest bridge in the world, located in China. This railway bridge spans numerous rivers, highways, and valleys, showcasing China’s commitment to infrastructure development.

3. Great Belt Bridge (Denmark)

The Great Belt Bridge, officially known as the East Bridge, connects the Danish islands of Zealand and Funen. With a main span of 1,624 meters (5,328 feet), it was completed in 1998 and remains one of the longest suspension bridges in Europe. The Great Belt Bridge is crucial for traffic between the islands, reducing travel time and providing a vital transport link.

4. Xihoumen Bridge (China)

The Xihoumen Bridge, with a main span of 1,650 meters (5,413 feet), is located in the Zhoushan Archipelago of China. Completed in 2009, it holds the distinction of being the world’s longest suspension bridge at the time of its completion. It provides a vital connection between the islands, promoting economic growth in the region.

5. Jiaozhou Bay Bridge (China)

Stretching across Jiaozhou Bay, the Jiaozhou Bay Bridge is one of China’s most significant engineering projects. While its total length is 42.5 kilometers (26.4 miles), the suspension section is 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) long. It opened in 2011, cutting down travel time between Qingdao and Huangdao significantly.

6. Tsing Ma Bridge (Hong Kong)

The Tsing Ma Bridge, a critical link in the Hong Kong transportation network, spans 2,160 meters (7,087 feet) and connects Tsing Yi Island to Ma Wan Island. Opened in 1997, the Tsing Ma Bridge is also a double-decked suspension bridge, carrying both road traffic and railway lines, making it an engineering feat in terms of both functionality and design.

7. Severn Bridge (United Kingdom)

The Severn Bridge, which spans the Severn Estuary between England and Wales, measures 1,016 meters (3,333 feet) in length. Completed in 1966, it was the longest suspension bridge in the UK until it was surpassed by the newer Second Severn Crossing in 1996. The Severn Bridge remains iconic for its sweeping views and historical significance.

8. Incheon Bridge (South Korea)

Located in South Korea, the Incheon Bridge stretches across 21.38 kilometers (13.3 miles), with a main span of 800 meters (2,625 feet). Opened in 2009, this bridge plays an essential role in linking the Incheon Port to the capital Seoul, significantly improving transport efficiency and the region’s economy.

9. Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge (Turkey)

The Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, also known as the Third Bosphorus Bridge, connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. With a main span of 1,408 meters (4,619 feet), this bridge serves as a major bypass for Istanbul’s traffic. Completed in 2016, it plays a crucial role in the city's transportation system, especially for trucks and long-distance travelers.

10. Shizimen Bridge (China)

The Shizimen Bridge, part of the new infrastructure in China’s Zhuhai city, has a main span of 1,088 meters (3,570 feet). Finished in 2016, this bridge connects the urban area to nearby islands, improving accessibility and bolstering the local economy. As one of China’s most modern bridges, it combines both function and aesthetics.

Dear Lykkers! Suspension bridges are more than just structural marvels; they are lifelines that connect regions, enable trade, and support modern transportation systems. From the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge in Japan to the Shizimen Bridge in China, these engineering wonders continue to inspire awe and push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of civil engineering.

Whether it's the historical significance of the Severn Bridge or the cutting-edge design of the Tsing Ma Bridge, each of these structures has its unique place in the history of bridge-building!