The five-arch design was chosen by Kikkawa Hiroyoshi to withstand the Nishiki River's powerful floods that had destroyed previous bridges. The arched structure distributes weight more effectively and allows floodwaters to pass underneath without creating excessive pressure on the supports. The number five also held aesthetic and symbolic significance in traditional Japanese design. Each arch rests on stone pillars positioned strategically in the riverbed to resist erosion and strong currents.
No, the current bridge is a faithful reconstruction completed in 1953 after Typhoon Kijiya destroyed the structure in 1950. The original bridge from 1673 stood for 276 years with regular maintenance and partial repairs. The reconstruction used traditional Edo-period techniques and materials, including Japanese cypress and zelkova wood, assembled without nails using the same interlocking wooden framework as the original design.
Yes, Kintai Bridge serves as the main access point to Iwakuni Castle. After crossing the bridge and walking through Kikko Park, visitors take a ropeway up Mount Shiroyama to reach the castle at the summit. The combination ticket for 970 yen covers the bridge crossing, ropeway ride, and castle admission, making it convenient to visit all three attractions in one trip. The castle offers excellent views of Kintai Bridge from above.
Early April during cherry blossom season is the most popular time, when approximately 3,000 sakura trees bloom along the riverbanks creating spectacular scenery. Autumn, typically late October to early November, offers equally beautiful views with colorful foliage on the surrounding mountains. Summer evenings feature traditional cormorant fishing demonstrations on the river. Each season provides a different perspective, though spring and autumn attract the largest crowds.
Yes, there is a crossing fee of 310 yen for adults and 150 yen for children. This fee supports the bridge's ongoing maintenance and preservation, as the wooden structure requires regular care to maintain its integrity. The ticket booth is located at the entrance on either side of the bridge. Visitors can cross back and forth multiple times with the same ticket on the day of purchase.
