Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko

Vermilion lacquered sacred bridge; the beautiful Shinkyo is worth enough to decorate the entrance of sanctuary Nikko. In addition, Shinkyo was registered as the World Heritage in December 1999.… Photo © d'n'c. View all images in our Shinkyo Bridge Photo Gallery.

This is the Shinkyo Bridge in Nikko, part of the Futarasan Shrine. It was a gloomy day with a little bit of drizzle, so it was great for a long exposure to get a smooth water flow. The color of the… Photo © davidkosmos.

Photo © petitshoo.

Photo © tanuki-tanukette.

Between the Japanese town of Nikko and its main shrines is the Shinkyo sacred bridge, a red lacquered span that arches gracefully across the Daiya River.

History

Legend has it that the hermit who settled Nikko was carried across the river here by two serpents. In feudal times, the sacred bridge could be used only by the emperor.

What to See

The Shinkyo has long been considered one of the most beautiful structures in Japan, its simple elegance contrasting with the wildness of the river gorge, the green hills, and the tumbling waters.

From here, a road leads into the park, threading through 16,000 towering cedar trees.

Quick Facts on Shinkyo Bridge

Site Information
Names:	Sacred Bridge; Shinkyo Bridge; Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko
City:	Nikko
State:	Kanto
Country:	Japan
cat:	Shrines
faith:	Shinto
Visitor and Contact Information
Location:	Nikko, Japan
Coordinates:	36.753361° N, 139.608335° E (view on Google Maps)
Lodging:	View hotels near this location

Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

Map of Shinkyo Bridge

Below is a location map and aerial view of Shinkyo Bridge. Using the buttons on the left (or the wheel on your mouse), you can zoom in for a closer look, or zoom out to get your bearings. To move around, click and drag the map with your mouse.

More Information

Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko - Go Historic
Photos of Shinkyo Bridge - here on Sacred Destinations

Article Info

Title:	Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko
Author:	Holly Hayes
Last updated:	10/27/2009
Permalink:	www.sacred-destinations.com/japan/nikko-shinkyo-bridge
Link code:	<a href="http://www.sacred-destinations.com/japan/nikko-shinkyo-bridge">Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko</a>