Kintaikyo Bridge: A Timeless Icon

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Experience the timeless beauty of Kintaikyo Bridge, a symbol of Japanese craftsmanship and resilience in Iwakuni's stunning natural landscape.

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Kintaikyo Bridge

The Kintaikyo Bridge in Iwakuni, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is a stunning five-arched wooden bridge that has been admired for centuries. Spanning the Nishiki River, it's a symbol of the city and a testament to traditional Japanese engineering. Rebuilt in 1953 after a typhoon destroyed the original, it continues to captivate visitors with its beauty and history.

A brief summary to Kintaikyo Bridge

Iwakuni, Iwakuni, 1 Chome Iwakuni, Yamaguchi, 741-0062, JP
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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Purchase a set ticket to save money if you plan to visit Iwakuni Castle and ride the ropeway in addition to crossing the Kintaikyo Bridge.
Visit during the spring cherry blossom season or autumn foliage season for the most picturesque views.
Try the local ice cream near the bridge, with a wide variety of unique and unusual flavors.
Be aware that the bridge can be slippery during rainy or snowy days.
If visiting when the tollbooth is unattended, deposit the bridge crossing fee into the nighttime toll box.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Iwakuni Station, take the Kintaikyo Bus (number 11) to the Kintaikyo Bridge stop. The ride takes approximately 20 minutes and costs 300 yen. Alternatively, from Shin-Iwakuni Station, take the Kintaikyo Bus (number 21) to the Kintaikyo Bridge stop. This journey takes about 15 minutes and costs 350 yen. The bridge is a short walk from the bus stop.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available at both Iwakuni Station and Shin-Iwakuni Station. A taxi ride from Iwakuni Station to Kintaikyo Bridge will take approximately 15 minutes and cost around 2000-2500 yen. From Shin-Iwakuni Station, the taxi ride is slightly shorter, around 10 minutes, and will cost approximately 1500-2000 yen.
Walking

While it's a considerable walk, it is possible to walk to the Kintaikyo Bridge from Kawanishi Station. From Kawanishi Station, it is approximately a 1km walk to get to the bridge; it will take 15-20 minutes to get there. Follow the signs towards Kintaikyo Bridge. Note that this is not the most convenient option if you have luggage.
Parking

If driving, there are several parking lots available near Kintaikyo Bridge. Parking costs vary, with some lots charging 300 yen per hour. Free parking is available a few hundred meters away from the bridge. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak seasons and weekends.

Discover more about Kintaikyo Bridge

Kintaikyo Bridge, one of Japan's three most famous bridges, gracefully arches over the Nishiki River in Iwakuni. This iconic landmark, designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty, is a masterpiece of wooden construction, comprising five distinct spans supported by massive stone pillars. Originally built in 1673 by Kikkawa Hiroyoshi, the third feudal lord of Iwakuni, the bridge was designed to be a more durable crossing after previous bridges were repeatedly destroyed by strong currents. The unique design features five steep arches, intended to represent western Honshu and deter invading armies. The bridge stood for nearly 300 years until a devastating typhoon in 1950 swept it away. Determined to preserve their cherished landmark, the residents of Iwakuni meticulously reconstructed the bridge using traditional techniques, completing the project in 1953. Today, Kintaikyo Bridge stands as a symbol of resilience and a testament to the enduring beauty of Japanese craftsmanship. Visitors can cross the bridge for a small fee, experiencing firsthand the gentle sway of the wooden structure and the breathtaking views of the Nishiki River and surrounding Kikko Park. The bridge is lit up until 10:00 PM most of the year, offering a magical nighttime spectacle.The bridge's surroundings offer seasonal beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Nearby Kikko Park provides a tranquil space to relax and enjoy the scenery, while Iwakuni Castle, accessible by ropeway, offers panoramic views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. Don't miss the chance to sample the local ice cream, with shops offering a wide array of unique flavors.