The Long-Term Economic Effects of Bridges: The 60th Anniversary of the Opening of Amakusa Five Bridges

In 1966, there were five bridges connecting Amakusa islands to the mainland. Various effects of the opening of the bridges have been researched with negative opinions. Population overflows from Amakusa islands are one of serious problems. However, from the perspective of economic geography, Amakusa islands have attracted to those of 10 local governments which are equidistant to Kumamoto city, prefectural capital. This fact lessened the negative opinions a little. This report analyzes the economic effects of the bridges from the perspective of per capita income. Per capita income in the Amakusa islands have continued to increase slightly, despite the widening income gap. It is certain that it provides a slight wealth to the residents of Amakusa islands. This result can be considered one of the economic effects of the bridge.