What Is the Kintaikyo Bridge?

Kintaikyo Bridge (錦帯橋) is one of Japan’s most admired historical bridges, known for its rare five-arched wooden structure. It crosses the Nishiki River in the city of Iwakuni and has stood for over three centuries—though not without challenges.

Why was the bridge built?

In the early Edo period, Iwakuni Castle was positioned on one side of the Nishiki River, while the castle town developed on the other. Previous attempts to build bridges using standard designs had failed repeatedly due to flooding. To solve this, in 1673, feudal lord Kikkawa Hiroyoshi commissioned an innovative design with stone piers and five interlocking wooden arches—meant to withstand both time and water. The result? A bridge that was both durable and strikingly beautiful.
Unfortunately, even the best planning couldn’t defeat nature forever. A major typhoon in 1950 washed away the bridge, but it was faithfully reconstructed using traditional techniques, and has since been rebuilt again with improved materials to ensure preservation.
Today, Kintaikyo Bridge is a National Scenic Spot and a symbol of Iwakuni itself—renowned for its craftsmanship, elegant form, and seasonal beauty.

Is Iwakuni Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. While Kintaikyo Bridge is the most famous attraction, Iwakuni offers much more than just one iconic photo spot. From mountaintop views to rare white snakes, this quiet city in Yamaguchi Prefecture is full of charm and unique local culture.

What Are the Three Most Beautiful Bridges in Japan?

Kintaikyo Bridge is often listed among Japan’s three most beautiful historical bridges, alongside:
• Shinkyo Bridge in Nikko (Tochigi Prefecture): a sacred vermilion-lacquered bridge leading to the World Heritage shrines.
• Kazurabashi in Iya Valley (Tokushima Prefecture): a suspension bridge made of vines, hanging over a deep mountain gorge.

What makes Kintaikyo stand out is its engineering elegance and aesthetic harmony. While the other two are either sacred or thrilling, Kintaikyo’s five wooden arches blend seamlessly into the natural landscape—especially during cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons. Its design isn’t just beautiful—it was originally engineered to resist floods, making it a perfect mix of function and form.

How Long Is the Kintaikyo Bridge?

Kintaikyo Bridge is approximately 193 meters long and spans the Nishiki River with five elegant wooden arches supported by four stone piers. It’s not just a bridge—it’s a walk through history.

Opening Hours & Entry Fee

You can cross the bridge from early morning until 5 or 6 PM, depending on the season.
• Bridge crossing fee: ¥310 for adults / ¥150 for children
• Combination tickets are available for the bridge, Iwakuni Castle, and Ropeway.

Best Seasons to Visit

• Spring (late March – early April): Cherry blossoms transform the riverbanks into a sea of pink.
• Autumn (late November): The surrounding maple trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold.
• Winter: Snow on the bridge creates a peaceful, postcard-like scene—especially early in the morning.

If you’re into photography, the bridge is best captured from the opposite riverbank during sunrise or sunset.

Visitor Info

Location

Kintaikyo Bridge is located in Iwakuni, Yamaguchi Prefecture, about 45 minutes by train from Hiroshima Station.

How to Get There from Hiroshima

• Take the JR Sanyo Line to Iwakuni Station (approx. 45 minutes)
• Then take a bus or taxi to Kintaikyo Bridge (about 15 minutes)

You can also use a direct bus from Hiroshima Bus Center, especially convenient during peak seasons.

Opening Hours

• The bridge is accessible from early morning until sunset
• Ropeway and castle opening hours: usually 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Admission

• Bridge only: ¥310 (adults), ¥150 (children)
• Combo ticket (Bridge + Ropeway + Iwakuni Castle): around ¥970

Info verified as of 2026. Please check local listings for updates.

What is Dogo Onsen?

Dogo Onsen is widely known as the oldest hot spring in Japan, with records dating back over a millennium. It sits at the center of a charming onsen district in Matsuyama City, on the island of Shikoku. The most iconic feature is the Dogo Onsen Honkan, a majestic wooden bathhouse built in 1894. With its maze-like halls, lattice windows, and tiled roof, the building itself feels like stepping into another era.

The hot spring water is a gentle, alkaline-type thermal spring, said to be especially soothing for the skin. The public bathhouses use pure, natural spring water without any reheating or additives.
Visitors can choose from three main bathhouses:

• 🏯 Dogo Onsen Honkan – Historic and cultural centerpiece
• 🛁 Asuka-no-Yu – Modern building with artistic touches
• ♨️ Tsubaki-no-Yu – A more casual, affordable option popular with locals

Whether you’re seeking cultural heritage or a rejuvenating soak, Dogo Onsen delivers both.

Is Dogo Onsen Really the Oldest Onsen in Japan?

Yes—Dogo Onsen is widely considered Japan’s oldest hot spring, with a history stretching back over 3,000 years. It appears in ancient texts like the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan), which mention legendary figures such as Prince Shotoku bathing here for healing. According to folklore, even gods and sacred birds used the spring to recover from injury.

Dogo Onsen is also recognized as one of the “Three Ancient Springs of Japan” (日本三古湯), alongside Arima Onsen and Shirahama Onsen. Its uninterrupted use over centuries makes it a living link to Japan’s thermal bathing culture.
Even today, the onsen water continues to flow naturally, and locals still take pride in its spiritual and healing legacy.

What Can You Do at Dogo Onsen?

Dogo Onsen is more than just a place to bathe—it’s a cultural and sensory experience. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:

🏯 Soak in Historic Bathhouses

The iconic Dogo Onsen Honkan is a must. Walk through creaky wooden hallways, change into a yukata, and enjoy a timeless soak. If you’re looking for something modern, try the Asuka-no-Yu, which features stunning murals and private rooms inspired by classical Japanese art.

👣 Try Free Footbaths

Scattered throughout the district are beautifully designed ashiyu (footbaths)—perfect for resting your legs after sightseeing. Many are located near shrines or shopping streets.

🍡 Explore the Onsen Arcade

The Dogo Shotengai (shopping arcade) is full of local snack shops, traditional crafts, and quirky souvenirs. Try the famous Botchan dango or local mandarin-based sweets.

🏮 Enjoy Evening Light Displays

At night, the Honkan and surrounding streets come alive with projection mapping and lantern-style lighting, creating a magical, almost Ghibli-like atmosphere.

Does Dogo Onsen Have Private Baths?

The historic Dogo Onsen Honkan does not offer private or family baths. It is a traditional public bathhouse with shared bathing spaces for men and women (separate of course), in keeping with its historical roots.
However, if you’re looking for privacy, there are plenty of nearby ryokan and hotels that offer:

• 🛁 Private onsen baths in guest rooms
• 👪 Family-style baths (貸切風呂) that can be reserved by the hour
• 🌿 Open-air baths with a view (especially on upper floors)

These are perfect for couples, families, or visitors who want to relax in their own space. Some accommodations even offer special plans that include dinner, yukata rental, and a private bath experience—all infused with the warm hospitality that Dogo is known for.

Tip: Book your ryokan early during cherry blossom season or long weekends—rooms with private baths fill up fast!

Recommended Ryokan & Hotels in Dogo Onsen

Looking to stay overnight? Here are some of the most trusted and memorable accommodations near Dogo Onsen:

How to Get to Dogo Onsen

From Tokyo or Osaka

1. Fly to Matsuyama Airport 　- Flights from Tokyo Haneda take about 1.5 hours 　- From the airport, take a limousine bus to Dogo Onsen (~40 minutes)
2. Train + Ferry Option 　- Shinkansen to Okayama Station 　- Transfer to JR Yosan Line to Matsuyama Station (~3 hours) 　- Then take the Iyotetsu tram to Dogo Onsen Station

From Matsuyama City Center

• Ride the Iyotetsu streetcar bound for Dogo Onsen
• It’s the last stop, and the journey takes just 20 minutes from JR Matsuyama Station
• You’ll arrive right in front of the famous Dogo Onsen Honkan

Q&A – Dogo Onsen Travel Tips

What is Kazurabashi?

Deep in the heart of Tokushima’s Iya Valley, a mysterious vine bridge stretches across a rushing mountain stream. Known as Kazurabashi, this handwoven suspension bridge is made from hardy vines called shirakuchi-kazura and spans 45 meters across a gorge, suspended 14 meters above the water.

Originally built hundreds of years ago by local villagers—and possibly even the Heike refugees—the bridge once served as the only way to cross the rugged terrain of this remote valley. Today, it’s rebuilt every few years using both natural vines and steel cables for safety, but the feeling of walking across a living, creaking bridge remains unforgettable.

Kazurabashi is not just a bridge—it’s an experience. Every step echoes the harmony (and thrill) of humans and nature, offering a glimpse into Japan’s hidden valleys.

Walking the Bridge – What to Expect

The moment you step onto Kazurabashi, you’ll feel it: the gentle sway beneath your feet, the cool mountain air brushing against your skin, and the sound of rushing water far below.

The wooden planks are spaced apart, revealing the river below through gaps—wide enough to test your nerves but safe for most visitors. The vines creak slightly as you walk, giving a raw, authentic feel you won’t find on modern suspension bridges.

Many visitors pause at the midpoint to take in the view of the Iya Valley: steep forested cliffs, turquoise streams, and the peaceful isolation of this mountain region.

Experience Crossing Kazurabashi

I visited Kazurabashi on a misty spring morning. The mountain air was cool, and the fog clung to the trees like something out of a Ghibli film. As I approached the bridge, I could already hear the roar of the river below. There were only a few other visitors around, so I took my time. The bridge swayed gently with each step, and I could feel the vines flex under my hands. At the halfway point, I paused and looked down—the clear stream cut through mossy rocks, and the forest echoed with birdsong.

I wasn’t expecting the height to feel so real. It’s only about 14 meters above the water, but with the open gaps between the wooden planks, it felt like much more. Still, there was something exhilarating about it. Not terrifying—just enough to make my heart race. Crossing to the other side, I felt like I had experienced something ancient, something people centuries ago had felt too. No filters, no sound effects—just nature, rope, and a bit of courage.

Access – How to Get to Kazurabashi

🚆 By Public Transportation

1. From Tokushima or Okayama:
Take a limited express train to Oboke Station (大歩危駅) on the JR Dosan Line.

2. From Oboke Station:
– Take the Shikoku Kotsu bus bound for Kazurabashi (30–40 minutes).
– Get off at the Kazurabashi stop.

Note: Buses are infrequent—check schedules in advance.

🚗 By Car

• From Takamatsu or Kochi, Kazurabashi is about 2–2.5 hours by car.
• The roads into the Iya Valley are narrow and winding, so drive carefully.
• Paid parking is available near the bridge entrance.

🧭 Guided Tours (Recommended)

If you’re not confident with rural travel in Japan, consider a guided tour from Takamatsu or Tokushima that includes transportation, translation, and stops at nearby attractions like Oboke Gorge or Iya Onsen.

Nearby Attractions – What Else to See in Iya Valley

Kazurabashi is just the beginning. The Iya Valley is full of quiet beauty and off-the-beaten-path wonders. If you’ve made it this far, don’t miss these nearby spots:

Visitor Info – Opening Hours & Tips

Opening Hours

Kazurabashi is open year-round, with entry typically allowed from sunrise to sunset.

• Standard hours: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM (may vary by season)
• Entry gate closes in the evening for safety reasons.

Admission

• Adults: ¥550
• Children: ¥350 (Tickets available at the small booth near the bridge entrance)

What to Bring

• Wear grippy shoes (the planks may be slippery)
• Avoid skirts or loose items—wind and gaps can surprise you
• Check weather and bus times in advance if visiting by public transport

What is Zenkoji Temple?

Zenkoji Temple is one of Japan’s most welcoming and inclusive Buddhist temples—famous for accepting all visitors regardless of religious affiliation. Located in the heart of Nagano City, this ancient temple has stood for over 1,400 years and continues to attract pilgrims, history lovers, and spiritual seekers from around the world.

What makes Zenkoji truly unique is its open-door philosophy. Unlike most temples affiliated with specific sects, Zenkoji belongs to no particular school of Buddhism. Anyone, regardless of belief, can pray at its main altar and experience its rich spiritual atmosphere. Its massive wooden main hall (hondō), designated as a National Treasure, is one of the largest wooden structures in Japan.

History and Cultural Significance

Zenkoji was founded in the 7th century to house the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan—a hidden Amida Buddha said to grant salvation to all beings. This statue is kept completely hidden from view, and even temple priests do not see it. A replica, however, is shown publicly every six or seven years during the “Gokaicho” event.

During the Edo period, Zenkoji became a key destination on religious pilgrimage routes and gained deep cultural importance as a “sacred place for all.” Its non-sectarian stance earned it popularity among commoners and nobles alike. The current main hall was rebuilt in 1707 after a fire and remains an architectural masterpiece—a harmonious blend of elegance and power that reflects its role as a spiritual beacon.

Exploring the Temple Grounds

Zenkoji Temple’s grounds are filled with structures and experiences that highlight its historical and spiritual importance:

• Main Hall (Hondō): The enormous wooden hall houses the replica of the hidden Buddha and features a beautifully carved altar. It’s a solemn yet welcoming space filled with incense and candlelight.
• Sanmon Gate: This imposing two-story entrance gate is an Important Cultural Property and offers a panoramic view of the temple approach if you climb to the upper level.
• Rokujizō Statues: A row of six stone statues representing the six realms of rebirth in Buddhist cosmology. Visitors often dress them with red bibs and hats for protection.
• Kaidan Meguri (Pitch-Dark Passage): Underneath the main hall lies a pitch-dark corridor where visitors search for the “Key to Paradise” mounted on the wall. It’s a symbolic act of faith—walking in total darkness, guided only by touch and trust.

Zenkoji is also a great entry point for exploring Nagano’s culinary heritage. From local soba noodles to simple temple-style vegetarian meals, you’ll find options for every kind of traveler.

Guest Experience & Recommended Tours

“I didn’t know what to expect from the Kaidan Meguri, but walking in complete darkness searching for the key was powerful—strangely calming, too. You really feel connected to something ancient.”

“We visited Zenkoji on a snowy day in January, combining it with a trip to see the snow monkeys in Jigokudani. The contrast between the quiet temple and the playful monkeys made for a perfect winter day in Nagano.”

Recommended Tours

・Winter Japan Tour Package 7 Days / Snow Monkey

How to Get There

• From Nagano Station: About a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride (get off at Zenkoji Daimon stop). The walk includes charming shops and street food stalls along the way.
• From Tokyo: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano Station (approx. 90 minutes).
• From Kanazawa or Matsumoto: Direct train and highway bus options are available to Nagano Station.

Q&A – Zenkoji Temple

Visitor Info – Zenkoji Temple

• Address: 　491 Nagano Motoyoshicho, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture 380-0851, Japan
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Admission: 　– Temple grounds: Free 　– Inner Chamber + Kaidan Meguri: ~¥500
• Language Support: Some English signage; limited spoken English
• Official Website: https://www.zenkoji.jp/en/

What is Shibu Onsen?

Tucked away in the Nagano mountains near Yudanaka, Shibu Onsen (渋温泉) is a charming and historic hot spring town known for its cobblestone streets, traditional ryokan inns, and nostalgic atmosphere. With over 1,300 years of history, this small onsen village continues to offer an authentic glimpse into Japan’s bathhouse culture.

Though it’s just a 10-minute walk from the more modern Yudanaka Onsen, Shibu feels like stepping into another era. Wooden buildings line the narrow alleys, and guests wearing yukata (cotton robes) and geta (wooden sandals) stroll between bathhouses, carrying their personal towels and room keys. Compared to Yudanaka, which caters to a wider range of travelers, Shibu Onsen feels more traditional, atmospheric, and local.

Its popularity isn’t just based on history—it’s also the closest lodging hub to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where wild Japanese macaques famously bathe in outdoor hot springs. Many travelers choose to stay overnight in Shibu for convenient access to the park, but end up charmed by the retro townscape and its famed “Nine Bath Hopping” tradition.

Historical Bathhouses & the 9 Public Onsens

One of Shibu Onsen’s most beloved traditions is the “Kyu-to Meguri” (九湯めぐり)—a spiritual bath pilgrimage through nine historic public bathhouses, each said to offer a different blessing or healing property. Originally built for local residents, these baths are still maintained by the community and can only be accessed by overnight guests of local ryokan inns (with a special wooden key).

Bathhouse	Believed Benefit
#1 Yokuyu 一番湯・初湯（よくゆ）	General luck and good fortune
#2 Sasa-no-yu 二番湯・笹の湯	Intestinal health and digestion
#3 Wata-no-yu 三番湯・綿の湯	Healing for cuts and wounds
#4 Take-no-yu 四番湯・竹の湯	Back pain and joint relief
#5 Matsu-no-yu 五番湯・松の湯	Skin conditions
#6 Mearai-no-yu 六番湯・目洗いの湯	Eye health and clarity
#7 Nana-no-yu 七番湯・七繰の湯	Recovery from illness
#8 Shinmeidō-no-yu 八番湯・神明滝の湯	Safety and protection from misfortune
#9 Oyu 九番湯・大湯	Overall blessing and spiritual purification

Visitors are encouraged to collect red ink stamps (御朱印) from each bath. Once all nine are completed, you can visit the Shibutaka Yakushi Temple to pray for luck, health, and protection. This ritual has made Shibu Onsen not just a hot spring destination—but a sacred journey.

Tip: Bring your own towel and toiletries, as the public bathhouses are simple and do not provide amenities.
Local Belief: Complete all nine in one stay for “開運” (kaiun)—a spiritual unlocking of fortune and well-being.

Staying Overnight in Shibu Onsen

Ryokan Highlights

Kanaguya (金具屋)
One of the most iconic inns in Shibu Onsen, Kanaguya is said to have inspired the bathhouse design in Spirited Away. It features multiple indoor and outdoor baths, beautiful wooden interiors, and authentic kaiseki meals. The inn is a registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan.

Shibu Hotel (渋ホテル)
A modern ryokan with traditional elements. The staff are known for warm hospitality and can assist non-Japanese guests with explanations about the onsen customs. Private baths and Western-style beds are available.

Guests staying in a ryokan receive a wooden key that grants access to the nine public bathhouses, allowing them to fully enjoy the Kyu-to Meguri pilgrimage.

A Full Cultural Experience

• Walk the cobblestone streets in yukata and geta sandals
• Enjoy a seasonal Japanese breakfast and dinner prepared in-house
• Unwind in the inn’s own hot spring bath before or after visiting the public ones

Tip: Many ryokan offer pickup service from Yudanaka Station, so check in advance when booking.

How to Get There

Shibu Onsen is located in Nagano Prefecture, in the Yamanouchi area—close to the more modern Yudanaka Onsen and the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park.

From Tokyo

• Train Route (Approx. 2.5–3 hours) 　
  1. Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (about 90 minutes)
  2. Transfer to the Nagano Dentetsu Line (Nagano Electric Railway) and take the local train to Yudanaka Station (about 50 minutes)
  3. From Yudanaka Station, take a bus (10 min) or walk (20–25 min) to Shibu Onsen

By Car

• From Tokyo: about 3.5–4 hours via the Kan-Etsu Expressway and Joshin-Etsu Expressway
• Parking is available near the town, but note that some streets are narrow and limited to pedestrians.

From Kanazawa or Other Cities

• From Kanazawa: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano, then follow the same route as above.
• Direct buses may also be available from major cities depending on the season, but train + local transfer is the most reliable.

📍 Tip: Some ryokan offer shuttle services from Yudanaka Station—especially helpful in winter when the streets are snowy.

Guest Experience & Recommended Tours

“Wearing a yukata provided by the ryokan, I stepped into the narrow streets of Shibu Onsen just after sunset. The warm glow of the lanterns, the sound of geta on cobblestones, and the faint smell of sulfur created an atmosphere I’ll never forget. Locals nodded as I passed, and I felt like I had traveled a century back in time.”

“At each of the public baths, I pressed the red stamp onto my special towel—part of the ‘Nine Bath Pilgrimage.’ Some of the baths were so small they felt like secret hideaways, others had walls blackened by decades of steam. After the final one, I visited the local temple and said a quiet wish for good luck.”

Recommended Tours

・Winter Japan Tour Package 7 Days / Snow Monkey

Q&A – Shibu Onsen Travel Tips

Visitor Info – Shibu Onsen

Location

Shibu Onsen, Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
(Approximately 10 minutes from Yudanaka Station by bus or on foot)

Bathhouse Hours

• Bath No. 9 (Oyu): 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Other Soto-yu (1–8): Typically open from 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies by ryokan)

Admission

• Free for ryokan guests (with room key or stamp towel)
• Bath No. 9: ¥500 (non-staying visitors)

Important Notes

• Only overnight guests at local ryokan receive keys to access the 8 smaller public baths
• Each bath has its own history and charm—some are hotter, deeper, or more rustic than others
• Towels, soap, and shampoo are not provided—bring your own or purchase at shops nearby

Official Site

Shibu Onsen

You’ve probably seen it: a vivid red pagoda, soft pink cherry blossoms, and Mt. Fuji standing quietly in the background.This is Chureito Pagoda, one of Japan’s most iconic photo spots—and yes, it’s real.
Located within Arakurayama Sengen Park in Yamanashi Prefecture, the pagoda sits atop a hill with a sweeping view of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding city of Fujiyoshida. If you’re planning a trip to Japan and wondering whether it’s worth the climb—the answer is yes.

→Want to take in these views—and more—without the hassle? A guided tour is a great way to enjoy the whole area.

Climbing to the Viewpoint

At the Chureito Pagoda

A Brief History

While Chureito Pagoda was built relatively recently in 1963 as a peace memorial, the site itself has a much deeper history.
Arakurayama Sengen Park officially opened to the public in 1959, but the Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, located at the base of the steps, dates all the way back to the year 705.

Originally established to enshrine the spirits of the local Arakura family, the shrine played an important role during Mt. Fuji’s ancient eruptions.
When Mt. Fuji erupted in 807, a special ritual was held here to calm the mountain’s spirit.
As part of this ritual, the Emperor Heizei granted the shrine the title “Sangoku Daiichi”—meaning “the top shrine of the region”—along with an imperial plaque.

There are many Sengen shrines across Japan, all dedicated to Konohana Sakuya-hime, the goddess of Mt. Fuji.
They share a common purpose: to prevent Mt. Fuji from erupting. For centuries, people have believed that eruptions occur when the mountain deity is angered—so they pray to soothe her spirit.

❓ Q&A – Arakurayama Sengen Park & Chureito Pagoda

Visitor Info (as of 2026)

• Location : Arakurayama Sengen Park, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi
• Nearest Station : Shimoyoshida Station (Fujikyu Line), ~10 min walk
• Viewpoint Access : On foot only
• Hours : Open 24 hours (no gates), best during daylight
• Admission : Free
• Facilities : Restrooms at the base; vending machines; no shops at the top