About
Saruhashi, a bridge spanning the deep gorge of the Katsura River, welcomes travelers with its graceful appearance, as if floating in midair. Without any piers, this bridge is supported by four layers of protruding cantilever beams extending from both banks. Alongside Kintaikyo in Yamaguchi Prefecture and Kiso no Kakehashi in Nagano Prefecture, it is renowned as one of Japan’s Three Unusual Bridges.
Its origin dates back to the era of Empress Suiko (around the year 600 AD). It is said that Shirako, a landscape architect who came from Baekje, was faced with the challenge of building a bridge over the deep gorge. Inspired by the sight of monkeys crossing to the other side using wisteria vines, he completed this uniquely structured bridge. This legend is the origin of the name “Saruhashi” (Monkey Bridge). (city.otsuki.yamanashi.jp)
The bridge is 30.9 meters long, 3.3 meters wide, and rises 31 meters above the water surface. Together with the ever-changing scenery of the gorge throughout the seasons, its beauty has captivated many writers and artists. In particular, Utagawa Hiroshige was so impressed by the charm of this bridge that he created the work “Koyo Saruhashi no Zu.” (city.otsuki.yamanashi.jp)
At the foot of the bridge stands the Sannogu Shrine, quietly enshrining monkeys. According to local tradition, this shrine was built in gratitude to the monkeys who inspired the idea for the bridge. During the annual festival, there is a unique custom in which as many cushions as the number of children born that year are placed on a portable shrine, and the sacred object is placed on top and paraded around. The sight of the portable shrine crossing Saruhashi is particularly impressive. (city.otsuki.yamanashi.jp)
Saruhashi is also said to be deeply connected to the legend of Momotaro. In the story, this is the place where Momotaro met the monkey and welcomed it as a companion. Nearby place names such as Inume and Torisawa also remain, conveying the atmosphere of the story’s setting even today. (nhk.or.jp)
The current Saruhashi was faithfully reconstructed in 1984 (Showa 59) based on materials from 1851 (Kaei 4). The beauty of the bridge’s structure harmonizes magnificently with the surrounding natural scenery, deeply moving those who visit. In spring, fresh greenery; in summer, hydrangeas; in autumn, colored leaves; and in winter, snowy landscapes—Saruhashi displays the expressions of each season and can truly be called a symbol of Japanese beauty.
Located to the west of Saruhashi, Saruhashi Park is an urban park where visitors can enjoy playground equipment, a spacious lawn area, and a wide variety of plants. The promenade connected to Saruhashi is famous for its hydrangeas, which reach their peak in late June. There is also an observation deck along the way, offering magnificent views of the gorge. In addition, the Otsuki City Local Museum is adjacent, where visitors can learn about the history of Otsuki, including Saruhashi. (city.otsuki.yamanashi.jp)
Saruhashi is not merely a means of transportation, but a stage for stories woven from history, legend, and natural beauty, deeply etched in the hearts of many people. Its graceful form and surrounding scenery allow visitors to feel the depth of Japanese beauty and culture.