Kintaikyo Bridge

Landmark

Prefecture

Yamaguchi

Type

Landmark

N/A

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Train Access

Plan a trip with Kintaikyo Bridge

About This Destination

Arching across the Nishiki River in five wooden spans, Kintaikyo Bridge stands as a feat of Japanese engineering and one of the nation's most photographed landmarks. Originally constructed in 1673 and faithfully rebuilt using traditional techniques after flood damage, the bridge shows fine craftsmanship with interlocking wooden pieces assembled without a single nail. Cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage create vivid backdrops, while summer brings cormorant fishing displays beneath the illuminated arches.

Location

Prefecture: Yamaguchi

Address: Yamaguchi, Japan

Nearest Station: Iwakuni

Opening hours: Mon–Sun 00:00–23:59

Hours note: The bridge can be crossed 24 hours a day; its lights go off at 22:00. The toll booth is staffed 08:00-17:00, until 18:00 in the tourist season and until 19:00 in summer. When it is unstaffed, put the fee in the night fee box.

Hours and fees checked against the official site on 9 October 2026.

Best time to visit: Spring for cherry blossoms framing the five wooden arches; autumn foliage along the river as well

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Kintaikyo Bridge?

From JR Iwakuni Station, a bus reaches the bridge in about 20 minutes for around ¥300. From Shin-Iwakuni Station on the San'yo Shinkansen, the bus takes about 15 minutes. Both buses stop near the riverbank.

What makes Kintaikyo Bridge special?

It is a five-arch wooden bridge first built in 1673 and rebuilt in 1953, spanning 193 metres over the Nishiki River with no nails in the arch structure. Cherry trees line the riverbank, blooming in early April, and a white snake museum stands nearby.

What are the fees for the bridge and castle?

Crossing the bridge alone costs ¥310, with the toll booth staffed in the daytime but 24-hour access otherwise. A combo ticket covering the bridge, ropeway and Iwakuni Castle costs ¥970. Early April is best for the cherry blossoms.