Spring in Iwakuni/Kintai-kyo Bridge

The five-arch Kintai-kyo Bridge is known as one of Japan's three most scenic bridges as well as one of its three "unusual" bridges: Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture

Iwakuni is known for the Kintai-kyo Bridge, which runs 200 meters to span the Nishikigawa River. The five-arch structure against a background of the castle town and mountains makes for an unusual view, not only in Japan but in the world. The bridge was built in 1673 by Kikkawa Hiroyoshi, lord of Iwakuni. Written documents describing construction and repairs of the bridge, compiled by the feudal administration, form a near-complete record. Thanks to construction technology that has been passed on continuously, the current bridge was restored in its original form for the 3rd time in 2004. The foothills around Kintai-kyo Bridge were once home to numerous local lords and high-ranking samurai. The area currently features the Kikko Park, which is known as one of Japan's top 100 cherry blossom-viewing spots. Take in a grand view the Kintai-kyo Bridge from the top of Iwakuni Castle (built in 1932), as well as the Iwakuni townscape and the Seto Inland Sea.

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