Sanjo Bridge - Kyoto

Sanjo Bridge (三条大橋) is one of the oldest and historical bridges in Kyoto City. It is located at Ohashicho, Higashiyama Ward in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture in Japan. 

Sanjo Bridge

Sanjo Bridge Details

The precise date of the original construction of the Sanjo Bridge remains unknown. However, historical records indicate that Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered repairs to the bridge in 1590. Notably, one of the bridge's original giboshi (ornamental, onion-shaped posts found on bridges, shrines, and temples in Japan) bears a distinctive cut, believed to have been inflicted during the Ikedaya Incident, an event associated with a nearby inn.

Sanjo Bridge - Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

The bridge as it stands today—a concrete structure featuring two traffic lanes and pedestrian paths on either side—was constructed in 1950. Over the centuries, the Sanjo Bridge has undergone several reconstructions due to flood damage and other factors. The most recent reconstruction occurred in 1950, with further updates to the wooden balustrades made in 1974.

You can read about the history of the Sanjo Bridge in this history board

One of the giboshi of the bridge

Sanjo Bridge Kosatsuba

Starbucks Coffee - Kyoto Sanjo Bridge

It's great to have coffee here while enjoying the view of Sanjo Bridge

It's also nice to view Sanjo Bridge from the banks of the Kamo River

As of 2019, approximately 45 years after its last major renovation, the bridge had begun to show signs of deterioration. Although it remained structurally sound, its appearance had significantly deviated from its renovated state. Recognizing the historical and cultural significance of Sanjo Ohashi Bridge, Kyoto City initiated the "Repair and Landscape of Sanjo Ohashi Bridge" project to preserve its aesthetic and wooden craftsmanship for future generations. This project, which included the restoration of the wooden railings, was completed in the fiscal year 2023.

Team Nicerio visits the Sanjo Bridge

My family and I visited Sanjo Bridge for the first time last January 12, 2022, which was my 437th day here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. The bridge wasn’t really on our itinerary for the day as we only planned to visit the Starbucks Kyoto Sanjo Bridge, however, upon learning its historical significance. There’s nothing much to do on the bridge but take pictures of the Kamo River. However, the bridge adds beauty to the landscape if you are looking at it from the riverside walking path. 

Sanjo Bridge Admission Fee

It’s FREE to cross the bridge. 

Sanjo Bridge Operating Hours

Sanjo Bridge is open 24/7.

Why visit Sanjo Bridge?

Sanjo Ohashi Bridge is a must-visit destination for its rich historical and cultural significance. Originally built during the Muromachi period and later repaired by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1590, the bridge embodies traditional Japanese craftsmanship with its wooden balustrades and ornamental giboshi posts. The recent restoration in 2023 has preserved its aesthetic appeal, allowing visitors to enjoy both its scenic beauty and historical context. The bridge also features markers that highlight significant events, such as the Ikedaya Incident, adding depth to the visit. Located at the western end of the Tokaido route, it offers easy access to other historical sites in Kyoto, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city's cultural heritage.

Getting to Sanjo Bridge

 

To reach Sanjo Ohashi Bridge from Kyoto Station, follow these steps:

1. By Train:

Take the JR Kyoto Line: Board a JR train (such as the JR Special Rapid or Rapid) from Kyoto Station heading towards Sanjo Station. This is the quickest and most direct route.

Transfer at Sanjo Station: After about a 5-minute ride, get off at Sanjo Station.

Walk to the Bridge: From Sanjo Station, it’s a short 10-minute walk to Sanjo Ohashi Bridge. Exit the station and head east; you should see signs directing you to the bridge.

2.By Bus:

Take Bus 5 or 17: Board Kyoto City Bus number 5 or 17 at Kyoto Station.

Get Off at Sanjo Keihan Station: After about a 15-20 minute ride, alight at Sanjo Keihan Station.

Walk to the Bridge: From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to Sanjo Ohashi Bridge. Head south from the bus stop, and you will find the bridge easily.

3. By Taxi:

Taxi Ride: A taxi ride from Kyoto Station to Sanjo Ohashi Bridge takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

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