- 2022.12.27
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A little bridge with a big history
You might not be familiar with the term chinkabashi (submersible bridge), but there are quite a lot of them dotted around Kochi Prefecture! These low, modest-looking bridges have no side rails. The simple design both helps to keep construction costs down and make it less likely that the bridge would be swept away in case of a flood.
Many of these bridges were constructed from the 1960s on, when Japan was going through a building boom. However, Kuki Chinkabashi in Niyodogawa Town dates back to 1935, making it the granddaddy of all such bridges in Japan and a designated Tangible Cultural Property.
A lot of Japan’s submersible bridges were replaced by fancier structures over time, but since 1998, Kochi Prefecture has been making efforts to preserve these retro gems whenever possible. They serve as a unique aspect of regional architectural heritage and play an important role in connecting people with their communities. Made of concrete, Kuki Chinkabashi is still used by local residents, so please be courteous when parking and taking pictures. Also, in case you’re wondering—yes, cars can and do go over it!
While you’re in the area, be sure to drop by another local attraction with a long history—the Drive-in Hikichibashi diner. Customers have been enjoying the simple, hearty fare here for over 80 years. Like the nearby bridge, this diner is unpretentious—what you see is what you get, and that’s amazing food and friendly local service! We particularly recommend oden, a Japanese hot-pot dish made with a variety of stewed veggies and fish cakes, as the ideal dish for warming up in winter. The salt-crusted, slow-grilled skewered fish is also out of this world!
Located only around 10 minutes from Kuki Chinkabashi by car is Nakatsu Gorge, which is a magnificent hiking spot. Learn more: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10014
Many of these bridges were constructed from the 1960s on, when Japan was going through a building boom. However, Kuki Chinkabashi in Niyodogawa Town dates back to 1935, making it the granddaddy of all such bridges in Japan and a designated Tangible Cultural Property.
A lot of Japan’s submersible bridges were replaced by fancier structures over time, but since 1998, Kochi Prefecture has been making efforts to preserve these retro gems whenever possible. They serve as a unique aspect of regional architectural heritage and play an important role in connecting people with their communities. Made of concrete, Kuki Chinkabashi is still used by local residents, so please be courteous when parking and taking pictures. Also, in case you’re wondering—yes, cars can and do go over it!
While you’re in the area, be sure to drop by another local attraction with a long history—the Drive-in Hikichibashi diner. Customers have been enjoying the simple, hearty fare here for over 80 years. Like the nearby bridge, this diner is unpretentious—what you see is what you get, and that’s amazing food and friendly local service! We particularly recommend oden, a Japanese hot-pot dish made with a variety of stewed veggies and fish cakes, as the ideal dish for warming up in winter. The salt-crusted, slow-grilled skewered fish is also out of this world!
Located only around 10 minutes from Kuki Chinkabashi by car is Nakatsu Gorge, which is a magnificent hiking spot. Learn more: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10014
