Inscription:
The former Aioi Bridge was built in 1932, in a distinctive "T" shape. The apparent target of the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945, it was subjected to an estimated blast pressure of seven tons per square meter - 15 times greater than normal.
Under this sudden pressure, the bridge thrashed like a leaf-spring being snapped back and forth with the slab floor up in the air. Fortunately, collapse was averted and, when repaired, Aioi Bridge was usable for over 35 more years. However, age took its toll, and Aioi Bridge finally had to be replaced with this new bridge in October, 1983.
The calligraphy for the name of the bridge on the newel post was written by Hirokichi Nadao, former speaker of the House of Representatives.
October, 1983 Hiroshima National Highway Work Office Ministry of Construction
https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=243960
The bridge before the war:
