Saruhashi Bridge

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Saruhashi Bridge

One of Japan’s Three Unusual Bridges, featuring a distinctive structure spanning the deep, scenic gorge of the Katsura River.

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Saruhashi Bridge is 30.9 meters long and approximately 3.3 meters wide. Because it spans a deep gorge 31 meters above the river, it has no supporting piers and instead rests on four tiers of cantilevered beams extending from both banks. This unusual structure is considered one of Japan’s Three Unusual Bridges, along with Kintaikyo Bridge in Iwakuni and Kiso no Kakehashi. It is also known for appearing in works such as Utagawa Hiroshige’s “Kōyō Saruhashi no Zu” and Jippensha Ikku’s “Shokoku Dōchū Kane no Waraji.”

According to legend, the bridge was successfully built after its design was inspired by the sight of many monkeys linking together to cross to the opposite bank. This story is also said to be the origin of the name Saruhashi, meaning “Monkey Bridge.”

In fall, the changing colors of the maple leaves create striking scenery. The walking trail leading to Saruhashi Neighborhood Park is also known for its hydrangeas, which bloom in abundance in late June.

Highlights

  • An unusually constructed bridge supported by four tiers of cantilevered beams, without any bridge piers.
  • One of Japan’s Three Unusual Bridges.
  • Hydrangeas bloom in abundance along the walking trail in late June.
  • See traces of the Saruhashi Lava Flow, considered the northernmost point reached by lava during a past eruption of Mount Fuji.

Photos

  • Saruhashi Bridge, one of Japan’s Three Unusual Bridges

    Saruhashi Bridge, one of Japan’s Three Unusual Bridges

  • Its unusual structure is supported by four tiers of cantilevered beams

    Its unusual structure is supported by four tiers of cantilevered beams

  • Approximately 3,000 hydrangea plants bloom along the walking trail in June

    Approximately 3,000 hydrangea plants bloom along the walking trail in June

  • In fall, Saruhashi Bridge is surrounded by colorful foliage

    In fall, Saruhashi Bridge is surrounded by colorful foliage

  • Traces of the Saruhashi Lava Flow

    Traces of the Saruhashi Lava Flow

  • Saruhashi Bridge in the snow

    Saruhashi Bridge in the snow

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

There is no public Wi-Fi, but Wi-Fi is available at some nearby businesses.

Q

Are coin-operated lockers available?

A

No.

Q

Are restrooms available?

A

Yes.

Q

Is there a designated smoking area?

A

No.

Q

Is parking available?

A

Yes. Please see our website for details.
https://otsuki-kanko.info/blog/view/28546

Reviews

1

Some reviews are AI-translated.

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    Last fall, I went chasing autumn leaves all the way to Saruhashi Bridge, and I actually cried!
    After getting off the train at Saruhashi Station, I realized I was in trouble. I was the only person at the station, and there were no taxis or buses.
    I had no choice but to go into a laundromat and ask for directions. A young mother made several phone calls for me, but she couldn't find a taxi. Then she suddenly said, “I'll drive you there!” She quickly gathered up her laundry and hurried to her car. Only after I got in did I realize there was a sleeping baby in the car!
    When we arrived at Saruhashi Bridge and I got out, I asked how I could thank her. She said, “Just enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves at Saruhashi Bridge to your heart's content!”
    I cried! Because her warmth was more beautiful than the autumn leaves!

Details

Name in Japanese
猿橋
Postal Code
409-0614
Address
Saruhashi, Saruhashi-machi, Otsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Phone
0554-22-2942 (Otsuki City Tourism Association)
Closed on
Open year-round
Hours
Open 24 hours
Admission
Free
Access
Approximately a 15-minute walk from JR Saruhashi Station
Official website
Official website (Japanese)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa