Megane-bashi bridge

 

The oldest stone arch bridge in Japan. Meganebashi or Spectacles Bridge, over the Nakashima

River was built in Nagasaki in 1634 by the Chinese monk Mokusunyoujo who is a second

generation of Chinese monks living at Kofukuji Temple. It is said to be the oldest stone arch

bridge in Japan and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property.

 

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Megane Bridge is also part of the first group of bridges built over Nakashima River. Megane Bridge is

made of stone and is a double arch bridge. It received the nickname “Spectacles Bridge” because its

two arches and their reflection in the water create the image of a pair of spectacles.

 

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