Kintaikyo Bridge Size report
Kintaikyo Bridge is a five-arch bridge that spans the Nishiki River and is listed as one of the three famous bridges in Japan. The whole bridge adopts traditional woodworking technology and is only fixed with iron cladding and bolts. It is a bridge structure that fully applies exquisite woodworking technology.
The ancient wooden bridge was first built in 1673 and was repeatedly swept away by floods during construction. After completion, it was destroyed by floods during a typhoon in 1950. Rebuilt in 1953 and partially restored in 2001 and 2004, it still spans the river today.
Kintai Bridge is one of the three famous bridges in Japan and one of the most beautiful bridges in the world. There are cherry trees on both sides of the bridge. The lighting landscape that starts in August every year attracts countless tourists. The cherry blossom festival and fireworks festival show tourists the different appearances of Kintai Bridge in the four seasons.
Size and Features of the Kintaikyo Bridge
Kintai Bridge, built in 1673, is a representative wooden bridge in Japan. Five consecutive wooden arch bridges connected by arches are extremely rare in the world. Even though the bridge has been rebuilt many times, its traditional craftsmanship has still been well preserved. Kintaikyo Bridge is connected by a unique wooden structure, a combination of zelkova and pine. The ingenious and rational structure makes this five-arch bridge tough and strong, like a gentle wave. In addition, bridges, piers, and cornerstones in the river bed are the wisdom of ancient construction techniques, especially since the structure of the bridge arch is full of originality.
Dimensions of the Kintaikyo Bridge
Kintaikyo Bridge is a five-span wooden bridge with stone piers; it has a width of 5 meters and a pier's height of 6.6 meters. The bridge is about 210 meters long, and the total length of a straight bridge is 193.3 meters. Each of the three middle spans is 35.1 meters long, while the two end spans are 34.8 meters. The below table lists more detailed dimensions of this bridge.
Bridge Span | Span Length | Bridge Height |
---|---|---|
1st | 34.8 m | 8.78 m |
2nd | 35.1 m | 12.46 m |
3rd | 35.1 m | 13 m |
4th | 35.1 m | 12.9 m |
5th | 34.8 m | 9.42 m |
Features | Size |
---|---|
Total Length | 210 m |
Longest Span | 35.1 m |
Width | 5 m |
Conclusion
Standing by the river, you can observe every corner of the 300-year-old bridge structure. In recent years, Kintai Bridge has been maintained and managed by famous carpenters using techniques handed down from the Edo period. Kintai Bridge presents different beauty in four seasons and a gorgeous atmosphere in summer. During the bridge lighting landscape, implemented every year from early August to late January, you can see the Kintai Bridge illuminated by lights from the Yagatabune on the water. In addition, a fireworks display will be held in August. Six thousand fireworks decorate the beautiful night sky, making the Kintai Bridge even more dreamy.