Seta no Karahashi

The Seta no Karahashi Bridge extends 223.7 meters across the Seta River, connecting the eastern and western districts of Otsu city.

The bridge location dates back to the 8th century, when boats were used to create a crossing point for travelers heading to Kyoto.

This bridge forms part of the Eight Views of Omi, particularly noted for the way sunlight reflects on the water during sunset hours.

The structure carries over 11,000 vehicles daily on the Otsu-Notogawa-Nagahama prefectural road, linking major transportation routes in Shiga Prefecture.

During medieval times, military commanders considered the bridge so crucial that a saying emerged: 'controlling Karahashi means controlling Japan.'

Location: Otsu

Part of: Eight Views of Ōmi, 100 Best Roads in Japan

GPS coordinates: 34.97310,135.90607

Latest update: September 23, 2025 16:45