Nihonbashi, Stone arch bridge in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, Japan
Nihonbashi is a stone crossing with two granite arches that spans the Nihonbashi River and carries ornate bronze lamp posts at its four corners. Over the roadway, heavy traffic flows today, while below the water runs through a narrow canal in the city.
The current structure dates from 1911 and is the nineteenth construction version at this spot, which has carried a river crossing since the 17th century. Centuries ago, the Tokaido, the main overland route heading west toward Kyoto, began here.
Families often come here on weekends to photograph the bronze sculptures, while small boats sometimes pass under the arches. In the nearby district, businesspeople cross this span every day before heading into the old trading houses and modern office towers.
You can walk across the crossing anytime since wide sidewalks run on both sides and traffic lights control the flow. On the eastern side, a small plaque sits in the pavement that serves as the symbolic reference point for nationwide distance measurements.
An expressway now runs over the river and casts a shadow on the historic arch, which surprises many visitors. The lamp posts are decorated with reliefs of the Japanese imperial crest, which you can see clearly up close.
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