If you’re visiting Iwakuni in Yamaguchi Prefecture, you definitely shouldn’t miss Kintai Bridge, known as one of Japan’s Three Famous Bridges and one of its Three Great Strange Bridges.
This historic five-arch wooden bridge, with more than 300 years of history, spans the Nishiki River with remarkable stability. Even today, it showcases Japan’s refined traditional craftsmanship through masterful construction done without nails or metal fasteners.
On a clear day, you can see Iwakuni Shrine in the distance on the hillside. You can also walk down to the riverbed to admire the graceful curves of the five arches and the beauty of its wooden structure from different angles.
The nearby old town, park, and local food also make it well worth visiting again.
Kintai Bridge | Review by 周黛西
Other Reviews by 周黛西
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It’s such a shame I can only give this 5 stars.
Itsukushima Shrine looks completely different in each moment—the shrine under the clear daytime sky, the shrine at night when the tide goes out, and the shrine floating on the sea the next morning. It feels majestic, solemn, and dreamlike...
At low tide, you can walk down to the tidal flats and get close. At high tide, you can admire the torii gate floating on the water from afar. Absolutely worth the trip!
I quietly promised myself I’d come back again. -
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Yuda Onsen is known as the "White Fox Hot Spring," and the whole onsen town uses the white fox as its mascot. You can spot cute white fox statues all around the area, and in front of the station there's even an 8-meter-tall white fox named "Yutakun" welcoming visitors. It really leaves an impression.
There are footbaths everywhere, so it's super relaxing to stroll around and take your time! -
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The Geibikei Gorge boat ride uses a traditional flat boat. The boatman poles it along the stream, carrying visitors while you take in the magnificent gorge on both sides.
The scenery is beautiful, and the cool breeze takes away the summer heat. Looking at the unusual rock formations while listening to the boatman sing feels relaxing and wonderfully carefree. -
