WakayamaTravel

Admire cloud carvings on an Edo-period arched stone bridge and capture a memorable photo

About this spot

An arched stone bridge constructed in 1851 under the orders of Harutaka, the tenth Tokugawa lord of Kishu Domain. It was built as part of the 'Onariodo' route used by the Tokugawa family during the Waka Festival. Arched stone bridges from the Edo period are rare outside of Kyushu, with the arch section crafted by stone masons from Higo (Kumamoto) and the decorative cloud motifs on the balustrade created by stonemasons from Yuasa. The textured stone surface weathered over 170 years and the graceful cloud designs observed up close offer plenty to admire. Enjoy taking photographs from various angles—viewing the bridge's reflection on the water from the bridge's base, or capturing its full view from the adjacent Ashibe Bridge nearby. When combined with a visit to Tamatushima Shrine, you can tangibly feel the layers of Wakura's history spanning from the Man'yoshu era to the Edo period.

Tips

A 2-3 minute walk from Tamatushima Shrine. You can walk across the bridge, and the cloud carvings are on the balustrade (railing), so you can observe them up close while crossing. For capturing the full view, the adjacent Ashibe Bridge is recommended. The stone bridge becomes slippery after rain, so watch your footing. If you have extra time, it's refreshing to walk further toward nearby Katao-nami to view the tidal flat landscape.