錦帯橋

Kintaikyō bridge

Japanese wooden construction is predominantly based on pillars and beams. Given the striking presence of these architectural elements, it was difficult for the Japanese to imagine and conceive of alternative construction methods. One of the rare exceptions to this rule is the Kintaikyō Bridge, located in the city of Iwakuni, Yamaguchi Prefecture. It features an arched structure made of wood, capable of supporting a 36-meter span without the use of intermediate pillars. Arched structures are commonly made of stone, so the Kintaikyō Bridge, built of wood, is a rare example both in and outside of Japan. The bridge was originally built in 1673 and has since been maintained through periodic reconstruction and repairs. The current structure was rebuilt between 2003 and 2005.