Zero Milestone: The Heart of Japan's Roads

The Zero Milestone stands as a testament to Tokyo's rich history, marking the origin point for all road distances measured from the capital. Situated in the bustling Nihonbashi district of Chuo City, this historical landmark embodies Japan's journey through time.The Nihonbashi area itself is historically significant, serving as the central hub for transportation and commerce during the Edo period (1603-1868). The original Nihonbashi Bridge, first constructed in 1603, was the starting point for the Edo Five Routes, which connected Tokyo to other major cities like Kyoto. Today, the Zero Milestone continues to serve its function as the reference point for calculating distances throughout Japan.The current Nihonbashi Bridge, built in 1911 in a Renaissance style, is a double-arched stone bridge. The calligraphy on the bridge plaques, which reads “Nihonbashi,” is based on the work of Yoshinobu Tokugawa, the last Shogun of Japan. The original “Zero Milestone of Tokyo City” was moved from the center of the bridge to a nearby square in 1972 for preservation.Visiting the Zero Milestone offers a unique experience, blending historical reverence with the vibrancy of modern Tokyo. The surrounding area features shops and restaurants that showcase local flavors and crafts. While in Nihonbashi, visitors can also take a cruise on the river. Renovation work is underway to bury the elevated expressway that has disfigured the view of the bridge since the 1964 Olympic Games, with an expected completion date of 2040.