Kintaikyo Bridge
Cross Japan's most beautiful five-arched wooden bridge
Kintaikyo Bridge was constructed in 1673 by Kikkawa Hiroyoshi, the third lord of Iwakuni Domain, after previous bridges were repeatedly destroyed by floods. The innovative design features five wooden arches supported by stone pillars, creating a graceful wave-like structure that can withstand the Nishiki River's powerful currents. The bridge's unique construction uses no nails in the arched sections, relying instead on traditional interlocking wooden joints - a testament to Japanese carpentry mastery.
The bridge served as the primary crossing between Iwakuni Castle town and the samurai residential district for nearly 200 years. Its distinctive silhouette, with five semi-circular arches rising and falling like a ribbon, became a symbol of Iwakuni and one of Japan's most recognizable bridges. The original bridge survived until 1950 when it was destroyed by a typhoon. Rebuilt in 1953 using traditional techniques and again renovated in 2001-2004, the current bridge maintains the original design while incorporating modern strengthening to ensure its preservation for future generations.
Today, Kintaikyo is designated a Place of Scenic Beauty and ranks among Japan's three most famous bridges (along with Nihonbashi in Tokyo and Megane Bridge in Nagasaki). The bridge attracts over 2 million visitors annually, particularly during cherry blossom season when 3,000 sakura trees along the riverbank create a spectacular pink canopy. The bridge's elegant form has inspired countless paintings, photographs, and poems, cementing its status as an icon of traditional Japanese aesthetics and engineering.
Key Highlights
- Five-arched wooden bridge built in 1673, designated Place of Scenic Beauty
- Unique construction without nails in arched sections
- 3,000 cherry trees along riverbank create stunning spring scenery
- Iwakuni Castle visible on mountaintop above bridge
- Cormorant fishing demonstrations in summer evenings
- Kikko Park with samurai residences and museums at bridge base
- Annual fireworks festival in August
- 60 minutes from Hiroshima - popular day trip destination
Access Information
Location
1 Iwakuni, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0062
Nearest Stations
- • Iwakuni Station (JR Sanyo Line) - 20-minute bus to bridge
- • Shin-Iwakuni Station (Sanyo Shinkansen) - 20-minute bus to bridge
Opening Hours
Bridge accessible 24 hours for viewing. Crossing the bridge: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (varies slightly by season). Iwakuni Castle ropeway: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Museums in Kikko Park: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed Mondays).
Admission Fee
Bridge crossing: ¥310 adults, ¥150 children. Combined ticket (bridge + ropeway + castle): ¥970 adults, ¥460 children. Viewing from riverbank: Free. Museums: ¥200-¥500 each.
How to Get There
From Hiroshima
Take JR Sanyo Line to Iwakuni Station (50 min, ¥760), then Iwakuni Bus to Kintaikyo (15 min, ¥300). Or take Shinkansen to Shin-Iwakuni, then bus.
60 minutes
From Osaka/Kyoto
Take Sanyo Shinkansen to Shin-Iwakuni Station (2 hours from Shin-Osaka, ¥11,550), then bus to bridge (20 min, ¥300)
2.5-3 hours
From Yamaguchi City
Take JR Sanyo Line to Iwakuni Station (40 min), then bus (15 min)
50 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Cherry Blossom Season
Late March to early April sees 3,000 cherry trees bloom along both riverbanks - one of Japan's most spectacular hanami spots. Evening illuminations during peak bloom (usually first week of April). Extremely crowded on weekends during bloom - arrive early or visit weekdays. Cherry blossom forecast critical for timing visit.
Best Photography
Classic view from eastern riverbank showing all five arches with Iwakuni Castle on mountain behind. Morning light (8:00-10:00 AM) illuminates bridge face beautifully. Cherry blossom season offers pink canopy framing. Sunset creates golden lighting. From bridge, photograph river views through arches. Tripod useful for evening/night shots.
Exploring Kikko Park
Former samurai residential area at bridge base features preserved residences, museums, and gardens. Mekata House (free entry) and Iwakuni Art Museum (¥500) worth visiting. Allow 1-2 hours to explore park. Combined with bridge and castle, creates half-day itinerary (4-5 hours total).
Iwakuni Castle
Small reconstructed castle atop mountain offers panoramic views of Kintaikyo and surrounding area. Access via ropeway (¥550 round-trip, 3-minute ride). Castle interior is museum (¥270). The view from castle grounds looking down at bridge is impressive. Combined ticket with bridge crossing saves money (¥970 vs ¥1,130 separate).
Seasonal Events
Ukai (cormorant fishing) demonstrations summer evenings (July-September, ¥2,000). Kintaikyo Fireworks Festival in mid-August (one of region's largest). New Year celebrations feature traditional performances. Cherry Blossom Festival in spring with food stalls and illuminations. Check event calendar for specific dates.
Local Specialties
Iwakuni-zushi (pressed mackerel sushi) is local specialty - try at restaurants near bridge (¥1,200-¥2,000). Soft-serve ice cream sold near bridge entrance (¥350). Riverside restaurants offer seasonal kaiseki and bento boxes. Many options along approach street to bridge. Convenience stores near station.
Visit Duration
Bridge viewing only: 30-60 minutes. Bridge + Kikko Park: 2 hours. Adding castle: 3-4 hours total. Most visitors spend 2-3 hours. Easy half-day trip from Hiroshima. Can combine with Miyajima Island for full-day itinerary from Hiroshima (both accessible via JR Sanyo Line).
Bridge Crossing Experience
Walking across the arched bridge is unique - the ascents and descents are steeper than they appear (good knee strength helpful). Non-slip footwear recommended. The wooden surface can be slippery when wet. Traditional construction visible from walkway - wooden joints without nails impressive to see up close. Photos from mid-bridge offer unique perspectives.
FAQ
How long does it take to cross the bridge?
Walking across the five-arch wooden bridge takes about 10-15 minutes at a leisurely pace, allowing time to appreciate the unique architecture and views. Most visitors spend 1-2 hours in the area including the bridge crossing, riverside park, and nearby castle or museums.
Is there an admission fee for the bridge?
Yes, a modest fee is charged to cross the bridge (around 310 yen). Combination tickets with Iwakuni Castle and museums offer savings. The fee supports bridge maintenance. The bridge can be viewed from the riverbanks for free if you prefer not to pay.
What makes Kintaikyo Bridge special?
Built in 1673 using traditional techniques without nails, the five-arch wooden structure is one of Japan's most beautiful bridges. The unique engineering and elegant curves spanning the Nishiki River make it an iconic landmark. Regular reconstruction using traditional methods maintains its historical authenticity.
When is the best season to visit?
Spring (late March-early April) for cherry blossoms lining the riverbanks is peak season. Autumn (November) offers beautiful foliage. Summer features ukai (cormorant fishing) on the river at night. Winter is quietest with potential snow. Each season provides distinct photographic beauty.
Can I see Iwakuni Castle from the bridge?
Yes, Iwakuni Castle sits atop the mountain visible from the bridge. You can reach the castle via ropeway from near the bridge. The castle visit adds 1-2 hours to your trip. Views from the castle back toward the bridge and city are excellent.
What is cormorant fishing?
Traditional ukai involves trained cormorant birds catching fish at night, performed on the Nishiki River during summer months (June-September). Viewing boats allow visitors to watch this ancient fishing method. It's a unique cultural experience though requires advance booking and adds cost.
Are there food options near the bridge?
Yes, the Kintai-kyo area has restaurants and food stalls serving local specialties including Iwakuni sushi (pressed sushi), soft serve ice cream, and seasonal items. Picnicking in the riverside parks is popular during cherry blossom season. Several traditional restaurants offer views of the bridge.
How crowded does it get during cherry blossom season?
Very crowded on weekends and holidays during peak bloom (late March-early April). Parking becomes difficult and the bridge area fills with visitors. Weekday mornings are slightly better. The combination of bridge and cherry blossoms creates spectacular scenery worth the crowds for many.
Is the bridge accessible for people with mobility issues?
The bridge's arched design creates steep inclines and uneven wooden surfaces, making it challenging for wheelchairs, walkers, or those with mobility limitations. The ascents at each arch are significant. Viewing from the riverbanks provides beautiful perspectives without crossing. Consider physical abilities when planning.
How do I get to Kintaikyo from Hiroshima?
Take the JR San-yo Line from Hiroshima to Iwakuni Station (about 45 minutes), then a bus to Kintaikyo (20 minutes). Alternatively, Shin-Iwakuni Shinkansen station is closer but has less frequent bus connections. Having a car provides more flexibility. The bridge makes an excellent half-day trip from Hiroshima.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Hagi Castle Town
A beautifully preserved castle town that played a crucial role in the Meiji Restoration, featuring samurai districts, historic houses, and traditional crafts.
Tsunoshima Bridge & Beach
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