Megane Bridge, Stone arch bridge in Nagasaki, Japan
Megane Bridge is a stone bridge over the Nakashima River in Nagasaki, 22 m long, 3.65 m wide and 5.46 m above the water. Two rounded arches of grey stone blocks rest on a central pier standing in the river; a low stone railing with short vertical posts runs along the gently curved deck.
The monk Mokusunyojo, second abbot of Kofukuji Temple, had the bridge built in 1634 with stonemasons brought from China. A flood destroyed it in 1647, and it was rebuilt the following year by the stonemason Koumu Hirado. The 1982 Nagasaki flood badly damaged it, but most original stones were recovered and reused in the restoration.
The name comes from the shape of the twin arches, which together with their reflection in the water resemble a pair of eyeglasses. Visitors often come here to photograph this optical illusion, especially when the water surface is still.
Reach the bridge by tram at Meganebashi or Shimin Kaikan stops, or by bus at Shinwa Bank-mae or Kokaido-mae. Since 1948 vehicles have been barred, so you cross on foot; the deck is 22 m long and 3.65 m wide. Steps at the left-bank end, uncovered during restoration, replaced the 1873 rickshaw ramp.
Each winter the area glows during the Nagasaki Lantern Festival with hundreds of Chinese lanterns in different colors and shapes. The illumination transforms the stone arches and riverbank into a festive scene that recalls the Chinese origin of the construction.
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