Singular and Elegant Wooden Bridge in Yamaguchi

The masonry piers comprising the foundation of Kintaikyo Bridge contrast with the structure's arching elegance. At the foot of Iwakuni Castle, Kintaikyo Bridge is a fine example of Japanese engineering, and visually appealing in any season. The five-arched, wooden bridge was constructed of cypress, chestnut, zelkova, pine, cypress, and oak. It spans the Nishiki River in Iwakuni City. The bridge's aspect changes significantly depending on the season and time of day, attracting photographers and artists such as Hokusai, famous Japanese painter in the late Edo Period (in the 17002). Let's cross the bridge and enter Kikko Park, which brings to mind the homes where samurai families once lived.

The bridge was originally constructed in 1673, it was washed away by a typhoon in 1950 and rebuilt to its original design in 1953. The nails used for the bridge are the same as those found in modern Japanese buildings. There are many 19th-century wooden structures around the park, including the majestic Kikko Shrine, and Kinunkaku, and one-time samurai residences. From the park, take the ropeway for three minutes and up 200 meters to Iwakuni Castle. You can visit the castle museum to see exhibitions of samurai armor and artifacts or climb to the top floor and look out of the observatory, which offers unbeatable views of Iwakuni and surrounds.