by Yuri Yuhara
Located in Otsuki city, Saruhashi is one of
Japan’s 3 most unique bridges. The more than well-deserved title comes from its
ingenious wood structure that crosses Katsura River without any bridge pier
supporting it from below.
Created more than 1300 years ago, it is
said that its construction was inspired by the sight of monkeys crossing the
river by holding on each other, giving origin to the bridge’s name.
Katsura river runs in the middle of two
cliffs, and due to its height it was not possible to build a bridge using the traditional
method we all know. But by burying thick wooden beams horizontally, letting part of
it stick outside it is possible to create a structure to support the
bridge without using piers, a method commonly used before the Meiji Period when bridges made of
steel started being built, influenced by techniques from foreign countries.
Not many bridges with this structure can be seen in present days, being Saruhashi the only one recognized as a National Place of Scenic Beauty.
Not many bridges with this structure can be seen in present days, being Saruhashi the only one recognized as a National Place of Scenic Beauty.
Saruhashi's unique architecture amazes many foreign and
national visitors, but not only the bridge itself catches people’s eyes. The
nature that surrounds it as the view of the Katsura river running between the
cliffs, especially during summer when it is possible to enjoy water activities,
and in autumn when the maple leaves color the scenery, attracts many visitors who can easily reach Otsuki by JR Chuo Line, just one hour ride from central
Tokyo.
During summer, the Yamanashi Outdoor
Project organizes boat tours and activities as shower climbing. Additional
barbeque and accommodation plans are also available for those who wants to make the best of their stay in Otsuki city.
The boat tour provides a guided visit to a local museum that houses items and artworks related to Saruhashi, and there a complete explanation about the bridge is provided to all. In a short walking distance from the museum, participants get in the boat and enjoy a 30 min ride in the river, where they can admire the nature and the bridge’s structure from many different angles.
The boat tour provides a guided visit to a local museum that houses items and artworks related to Saruhashi, and there a complete explanation about the bridge is provided to all. In a short walking distance from the museum, participants get in the boat and enjoy a 30 min ride in the river, where they can admire the nature and the bridge’s structure from many different angles.
For those who can’t speak Japanese
language, licensed guide interpreter services can be used for this tour!
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