Sanjo Ohashi Bridge

Sanjo Ohashi Bridge is one of Kyoto’s most famous historic bridges, spanning the Kamo River between Nakagyo and Sakyo Wards. Originally built in the late sixteenth century, it served as the western terminus of the Tokaido, Japan’s most important highway during the Edo period.

For centuries, travelers, feudal lords, and merchants crossed this bridge upon arriving in Kyoto from Edo (Tokyo). Today, Sanjo Ohashi remains both an important transportation route and one of Kyoto’s most beloved sightseeing landmarks.

The bridge also offers beautiful views of the Kamo River, Higashiyama, and the changing seasons.

History

Sanjo Ohashi was originally constructed in 1590 under the order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

During the Edo period, it marked the western end of the Tokaido, the famous route connecting Edo and Kyoto. Countless travelers completed their journeys here, and the bridge became one of Japan’s best-known landmarks. It also appears in Utagawa Hiroshige’s celebrated series The Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido.

The current bridge was rebuilt in 1950, while several historic stone posts from earlier bridges remain preserved at the western end.

Highlights

Western Terminus of the Tokaido

Sanjo Ohashi marks the historic western end of the famous Tokaido highway, one of Japan’s most significant travel routes.

Historic Stone Posts

Original stone bridge posts remain at the western end, preserving the memory of earlier generations of the bridge.

Beautiful Kamo River Views

The bridge offers panoramic views of the Kamo River, Higashiyama, and the surrounding mountains.

Kyoto Through the Seasons

Cherry blossoms, summer riverside dining terraces, autumn foliage, and crisp winter scenery make the bridge attractive year-round.

Excellent Starting Point

Sanjo Ohashi is within walking distance of Gion, Pontocho, Kiyamachi, Honno-ji Temple, and many of Kyoto’s most popular attractions.

Visit Tips

Visit in the late afternoon or evening to enjoy beautiful sunsets over the Kamo River and the lively atmosphere of central Kyoto.

From the bridge, visitors can easily walk to Pontocho, Gion, Danno Horin-ji Temple, Kyoto City Hall, and Honno-ji Temple, making it an ideal starting point for exploring downtown Kyoto.