
Guide
Meganebashi Bridge is a stone arch bridge spanning the Nakajima River in Nagasaki City, with a total length of 22 meters and a width of 3.65 meters. Its most striking feature is its double-arch structure, consisting of two semi-circles. The bridge earned its name because its reflection on the water's surface resembles a pair of eyeglasses. This unique design distinguishes it from other stone bridges in the area, which typically feature only a single arch.
The origins of Meganebashi date back to approximately 1634. Legend has it that the bridge was constructed by Mokushijojo, the second abbot of Kofukuji Temple, who had traveled from China. To prevent the bridge from being swept away by the frequent flooding of the Nakajima River, stonemasons were brought in from China to ensure a more durable construction. Throughout its history, the bridge has survived various natural disasters, including the flood of 1648 and the Great Nagasaki Flood of 1982. While many other stone bridges along the Nakajima River suffered significant damage during the 1982 flood, Meganebashi remained relatively intact, with only partial damage, allowing it to preserve its historical form to this day.
The greatest draw of the bridge is the beautiful reflection of the double arches on the water. On clear, calm days, you can enjoy the perfect silhouette of the