Meganebashi Bridge

In the area around Uonomachi in Nagasaki City, there is a large stone arch bridge spanning the Nakashima River. Known as Meganebashi Bridge and believed to have been constructed around 1634, it is recognized as Japan’s oldest stone bridge. The riverside setting carries a retro atmosphere, where people can be seen spending time enjoying the waterside view.

During calm moments when the river surface is still, the two arches of the bridge reflect in the water, forming circular shapes that resemble eyeglasses, which is the origin of the bridge’s name. The solid stone construction preserves the craftsmanship of the workers from that era, and despite the passage of many years, it maintains a sturdy presence.

The bridge is designed exclusively for pedestrians, free from vehicular traffic, allowing one to cross at their own pace while listening to the sounds of the flowing water. Visitors also explore the nearby riverside walking path, where viewing the bridge from a lower vantage point accentuates its arches. The surrounding area along the Nakashima River features cobblestone paths and old buildings, creating a historic townscape centered around the bridge.