Shinkyō Bridge - Nikko ⛩️🌉

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck

Address:
2307 Sannai, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture 321-1431, Japan 📍 (Located near the entrance to Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Futarasan Jinja, a 1-2 minute walk from the Shinkyo Bridge bus stop.)

Atmosphere/Location:
Shinkyo Bridge, or the Holy Bridge, is one of Nikko's most prominent landmarks and is considered one of the three most beautiful bridges in Japan. 🌉 It spans the Daiya-gawa River and is part of Futarasan Jinja, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Nikko's three sacred mountain deities. 🏔️ The atmosphere around the bridge is tranquil and sacred, surrounded by a cedar forest. 🌲 The bridge itself is 28 meters long, 7.4 meters wide, and 10.6 meters above the water's surface. The wooden structure is painted a deep vermilion, decorated with black and gold leaf. Majestic and sacred 🙏

According to legend, the monk Shodo Shonin, the founder of Buddhism in Nikko, received the help of deities appearing in the form of two snakes 🐍 to build this bridge across the Daiya-gawa River. Formerly, the bridge was only accessible to shoguns and imperial messengers. Today, it is open to visitors and crossings are permitted during certain times. During autumn (October-November), the area around the bridge is particularly lively. 🍁

Highlights:
• Architectural beauty: The deep vermilion arched wooden bridge, decorated with black and gold leaf, blends in with the surrounding nature. 🏯
• Sacred legend: The story of the monk Shodo Shonin and the two snake deities crossing the river. 🐍
• Popular photo spots: Views from the roadside or from the bridge below offer a beautiful view of the bridge against the river. 📸
• Autumn views: The leaves turn red and orange around the bridge. Romantic atmosphere like a painting 🍁
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Part of the Nikko World Heritage Sites, along with Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Jinja, and Rinnoji Temple 🌏

Average price per person:
• Shinkyo Bridge Admission: 300 yen (approximately 70 baht) for adults, 100 yen (approximately 25 baht) for children 🎟️
• Street-side photography: Free 🎉
• Bus fare from Tobu Nikko Station or JR Nikko to Shinkyo Bridge: 320 yen (approximately 75 baht) 🚌
• Tobu Nikko Pass (4 days): 4,600 yen (approximately 1,100 baht) including local buses and trains

Rating:
⭐ 4.5/5
Shinkyo Bridge is a symbol of Nikko, steeped in beauty and sacredness. The vermilion contrast with the river and pine forest is a captivating sight. 🍂 It's a perfect starting point for sightseeing in Nikko, although the downside is that it can be crowded during peak season and crossing the bridge costs money. 🙈 It's best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and get the best light.

Tip:
• Use the Tobu Nikko Pass to save on transportation and visit multiple locations in Nikko. 🚌
• Take photos from below or on the roadside to see both the bridge and the river. 📸
• Combine a visit with Toshogu Shrine and Futarasan Jinja Shrine for a complete experience. 🐒
• Visit during autumn (November) for the best views. 🍁
• If you want to cross the bridge, purchase a ticket at a nearby booth and check the opening hours (usually 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM).