About Shinkyo 「神橋」, the sacred bridge from Futarasan, there is a
beautiful old Japanese legend telling the story of its origins.
The first bridge was built here in 766 and it is unknown how it
looked like, it was probably a suspended bridge. What it is
known for sure is that in 1509, according to the recordings,
Shinkyo was a drawbridge, which makes it the oldest bridge in
Japan built over a gorge. Shinkyo was rebuilt many times and in
1636 it took the form we see today, but without decorations,
which were added in 1792. Originally, only the Emperor, a few
generals and imperial messengers were allowed to cross Shinkyo.
Since 1973 the bridge is opened to the public and now everyone
can enjoy a view like this one: Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko
Yesterday’s Japan Photo: The Owl Police Box