An Ordeal - Traditional Japanese Architecture with Seasonal Transitions at Kintai Bridge
Kintai Bridge located at Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture is a wooden arch bridge enlisted as one of the three biggest bridges in Japan.
Features of Kintai Bridge
Photo：fto mizno on Flickr
It consists of 5 unique aspects unlike any other arched bridge. It was designated as a national scenic spot in 1922.
Photo：Masaaki FUJINO on Flickr
The arch bridge has a unique and sophisticated wooden crossing structure. Each arch of the bridge consists of intricately carved skeletal lines, the ends of which support points, a mechanism that increases the strength at pressure points in the bridge. This impeccable structure was constructed by skilled craftsmen of Iwakuni City.
San-shi-sui-mei /Very Beautiful Scenery Around the Bridge
“San-shi-sui-mei” are four Japanese characters that are used to express the appearance of the beautiful natural scenery reflecting a mountain veiled in purple overlooking a clear rivulet.
Spring
Photo：Hiroaki Kaneko on Flickr
Cherry blossoms light-up the night
Summer
Photo：http://pds.exblog.jp/
Fall
Photo：nimame on Flickr
Winter
Heisei Reconstruction
Kintai Bridge started to deteriorate after about 50 years, so a complete restoration named the “Heisei Reconstruction” for the wood was carried on from 2001 to 2004.
The reconstructed Kintai Bridge was opened to the general public to portray the architectural wonder, rare even for the Japanese people.
If you happen to visit the Iwakuni city, Yamaguchi prefecture, why not enjoy the Kintai Bridge offering the best views of the 4 seasons in Japan.
Website (in English): http://kintaikyo.iwakuni-city.net/en/
