Horikawa Daiichi Köprüsü, Stone arch bridge in Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Horikawa Daiichi Bridge is a stone arch structure spanning the Horikawa River with dimensions of 14 meters long and 8.2 meters wide. Its design features a complete circular arch that extends down to the riverbed beneath it.
The bridge was constructed in 1873 to replace an earlier wooden structure called Nakadachiuribashi. It became the first permanent crossing of the Horikawa River in Kyoto.
The railings feature traditional pagoda-shaped ornaments and carved chrysanthemum patterns that reflect local craftsmanship of that era. These decorative elements show how people valued both function and artistic expression in everyday structures.
The bridge divides traffic with vehicles using the northern section and pedestrians using the southern part. This separation makes it easy to find your way depending on whether you are walking or crossing by car.
This bridge is one of the few surviving full-circle stone arch bridges in Japan where the arch extends completely to the riverbed. This complete construction makes it a rare example of this particular building technique.
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