Kintai Bridge (Kintaikyo)
Also written: 錦帯橋 · 锦带桥
A wooden bridge with five graceful arches, its scenery during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons captivates travelers from around the world.
An Illustrated Japan / Yamaguchi / Townscape & Scenery
About this place
Kintaikyo Bridge in Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture over Nishiki River, is 193.3 m long 5 m wide five-arched wooden bridge. Built in 1673 Enpo 1 by Lord Kikkawa Hiroyoshi inspired by West Lake's brocade sash bridge in China, combined stone piers and timber arches designed to resist floods. After being washed away 1674, rebuilt 1675 and lasted 276 years until swept by Kijia Typhoon 1950, reconstructed 1953 using traditional joinery without nails, metal clamps makigane only. Designated National Scenic Beauty, counted among Japan's three famous bridges and three strange bridges, Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots. Structure: three central arches and two side beam bridges, toll adult 310 yen round trip, night illumination and cormorant fishing boat in summer. Surrounding Kikko Park, Iwakuni Castle ropeway, white snake shrine, Iwakuni sushi. About 20 minutes bus from JR Iwakuni Station, many paid parkings. Engineers used precise wood curvature calculated by soroban abacus, no iron nails preservative technique allows disassembly and repair every 40 years, sustaining 350-year tradition of carpentry excellence recognized worldwide. Night view with castle lit magic. The area is well maintained with parking and toilets. Local cuisine and seasonal events enrich visit. Photography recommended early morning or sunset. Check tide tables and weather forecasts for best experience. Family friendly and accessible for most visitors with moderate walking. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers.
