An extremely steep and narrow staircase in the city of Gero, Japan, has been described by media and social media users as the scariest in the country. Photos shared by an amateur photographer have immediately attracted attention, sparking debate over its safety.
The steps are carved into a 10-meter-high embankment and appear almost vertical from some angles. They are so narrow that pedestrians can only use a rusty railing for support, facing the risk of slipping.
According to historical reports, the stairs were built in the early 1960s as part of a concrete embankment project to protect the area from flooding. They were later added after complaints from residents who wanted a way to reach the riverbank and fish.
The extreme steepness of the stairs is related to the 1:1 stair-to-elevator ratio, compared to the more common 2:1 ratio. Local authorities have not given an official explanation for this design, but it is believed that the choice was economical, to reduce construction costs. The Gero stairs are now an unexpected attraction for adrenaline junkies and photographers, but users are warned to be extra careful when climbing.
