Kintaikyo Bridge: Five Wooden Arches Over the Nishiki River
How to visit Kintaikyo, the famous wooden arch bridge in Iwakuni: its history, Iwakuni Castle, the best season and getting there from Hiroshima.
Quick answer
- What it is: a wooden bridge of five arches across the Nishiki River in Iwakuni.
- History: first built in 1673, and rebuilt in 1953 after a flood.
- Entry: a small toll is charged to cross the bridge.
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours with Iwakuni Castle.
- Best time: cherry blossom in early April.
Kintaikyo Bridge leaps across the Nishiki River in five smooth wooden arches. Built without nails using clever carpentry, it has been rebuilt again and again by craftsmen who keep the old techniques alive.
Why Kintaikyo is a wonder
The local lord ordered the bridge in 1673 to cross a river that often washed away simpler bridges. The arches, resting on stone piers, spread the force of floods.
The bridge survived for over 270 years until a typhoon flood in 1950. It was rebuilt in 1953 and has since been renewed in stages using traditional joinery.
Castle and white snakes
Across the river, a ropeway climbs to Iwakuni Castle, a reconstructed keep with fine views of the bridge.
Iwakuni is also home to rare white snakes, treated as lucky and protected at a small museum near the bridge.
What to see
| Spot | What you see | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Kintaikyo Bridge | Five arches over the river | 20 minutes |
| Kikko Park | A park at the far end of the bridge | 30 minutes |
| Iwakuni Castle | A hilltop keep reached by ropeway | 1 hour |
| White Snake Museum | Iwakuni's famous white snakes | 20 minutes |
| Riverbank | The classic view of the arches | 15 minutes |
When to go
- Early April: cherry blossom around the bridge.
- Summer: cormorant fishing on the river in the evenings.
- Autumn: red leaves around the castle hill.
- Evening: the bridge is lit up at night.
Our tip: Cross the bridge, then go down to the riverbank to see all five arches together. In spring, the pink trees make this one of Japan's classic views.
Getting there
- From Hiroshima: trains reach Iwakuni Station in about 50 minutes.
- From Iwakuni Station: buses take about 20 minutes to the bridge.
- By Shinkansen: Shin-Iwakuni Station is about 15 minutes away by bus.
Visiting tips
- The bridge is steep, so take care on wet days.
- Keep the toll ticket for your return crossing.
- Do not climb on the railings.
- Check opening times for the ropeway and castle.
Frequently asked questions
How old is Kintaikyo Bridge?
It was first built in 1673. The current bridge dates from a rebuild in 1953, with later renewals.
Do you have to pay to cross Kintaikyo?
Yes, a small toll is charged.
How do you get to Kintaikyo from Hiroshima?
Take a train to Iwakuni, about 50 minutes, then a bus.
Can you visit Kintaikyo and Miyajima in one day?
Yes. They are close together on the same railway line.
Lake Mashu
A deep blue crater lake, often hidden behind a curtain of mist.
We check this guide regularly. Prices, hours and rules in Japan can change, so confirm with the official sources below before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.