Momijidani Bridge, Chugoku Travel Guide

Momijidani Bridge, located within Momijidani Park on the enchanting island of Miyajima, Hiroshima Prefecture, is more than just a crossing; it's a scenic marvel that embodies the region's natural beauty. The elegant wooden structure, painted in a striking vermilion hue, provides a captivating focal point amidst the vibrant foliage and rolling hills.Nestled at the foot of Mount Misen, Momijidani Park has been a beloved destination since the Edo period, with its carefully planted maple saplings. Today, the park boasts over 700 maple trees, creating a breathtaking spectacle of reds, oranges, and yellows during the autumn months. The bridge is particularly stunning in November when the maple leaves reach their peak color. The most dominant species is the Iroha Maple, with over 500 trees that turn a brilliant red. Mono maples, numbering around 100, first change to a yellowy-orange before turning vibrant red.Visitors can stroll across the bridge, immersing themselves in the gentle sounds of the nearby stream and the rustling leaves. The serene atmosphere is often enhanced by the presence of friendly deer that roam freely in the area. The bridge also serves as a gateway to hiking trails leading up Mount Misen, a revered site in Japanese Buddhism. The park suffered damage from a typhoon in 1945, leading to the creation of an erosion control forest that blends seamlessly with the natural landscape.