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Nihonbashi Bridge at Night by Aimaimyi (GNU Free)

 

About

Nihonbashi (which literally means "Japan Bridge") is considered to be the "Center of Japan".  It was decided in the Edo period that all distances in Japan would be measured from Nihonbashi Bridge.  The original bridge was built in 1603 out of wood and in 1605 the first "Official" map of Japan was drawn up with distances measured from the bridge. The "Tokaido Road", which connected Tokyo and Kyoto all started here at Nihonbashi.  During the Meiji era in 1911 the bridge was rebuilt using stone. Unfortunately in the 1960's a Tollway was built over the top of the bridge which takes away a bit of the esthetics of the old bridge. At the Edo-Tokyo Museum in Ryogoku they have a "smaller" sized replica of the old wooden bridge of the original during the Edo period.

As the "Center of Japan", Nihonbashi has always experienced commercial prosperity over the years.  Currently it is a major business district in Tokyo. Many shops with centuries-long history still operate in Nihonbashi and newer "fashionable" buildings and shopping centers are being built constantly.

Although the actual bridge may not be a "hot destination" for tourists and the Tollway over the top of it takes away some of it's magic, Nihonbashi Bridge is filled with history and romance.  The bridge has been around for a long time and if you can just block out the modern surrounding and feel the history that encompasses it, Nihonbashi and the old surrounding city is a worthy visit.

 

Access

Closest Train Station: Nihonbashi

Chuo-ku
Nihonbashi, Tokyo 103-0027 Japan

Google Map

 

Hotels & Lodging

Recommended

View a full list of Hotels and Lodging in or nearby Nihonbashi.

 

Hours & Fees

Hours: This is a Area, therefore each establishment has it's own hours but generally shops in Japan generally open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. while restaurants are generally open until 9:00 p.m. or 10:00 p.m.

Cost: Each establishment's cost is different.

Information presented is based on the time it was created. There may be changes since publication. Please confirm information by contacting the attraction before visiting.