Meganebashi Bridge (眼鏡橋) is a stone double-arch bridge over the Nakajima River in Nagasaki City. Built in 1634, it is known as the oldest arched stone bridge in Japan and was the first of its kind in Japan, except for Tenjo-bashi Bridge in the Ryukyu Kingdom at that time. The bridge’s name, Meganebashi (Spectacles Bridge), comes from its reflection on the water, which resembles a pair of eyeglasses.
The bridge was built by Mokuzunyosyo, the second abbot of Kofukuji Temple. At the time, it served as an important transportation route between the port of Nagasaki and the inland area. In 1960, it was designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
Meganebashi Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Nagasaki City. There are many historical buildings and temples around the bridge, making it ideal for a stroll. The bridge is also illuminated at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere.
One of the highlights for visitors is searching for the heart-shaped stones embedded in the bridge’s sidewalls. Legend has it that finding these “heart stones” brings good luck. The bridge, although damaged by the atomic bombing in 1945, was later restored and continues to stand as a beautiful symbol of Nagasaki’s history and resilience.
Getting there
From Nagasaki Station to Meganebashi Bridge:
| Tram | Nagasaki Station ↓ Nagasaki Electric Tramway Line 3 ↓ 5 minutes (2 stops) Shiyakusho Station ↓ Walk about 4 minutes ↓ Meganebashi Bridge (Cost 140 yen) |
| Walk | About 17 minutes (1.1 km) |
