Saruhashi Bridge
Discover Saruhashi Bridge, one of Japan's three great unusual bridges, famed for its pillar-less design and stunning natural setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Saruhashi Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Saruhashi Bridge, one of Japan's three great unusual bridges, famed for its pillar-less design and stunning natural setting.
"A captivating architectural marvel with breathtaking valley views, especially magical in autumn."
🚶♀️ Walk Down for Views
Don't miss the path down to the water for a unique perspective of the bridge and valley.
🚗 Parking is Limited
The parking lot isn't large; consider arriving early or using the train.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Saruhashi Bridge
The bridge itself
A unique, ancient wooden bridge with no visible support pillars, known for its innovative 'Hanegi' construction.
Valley Views from Below
Path near the water body
Descend the stairs for a different, captivating perspective of the bridge and the deep valley it spans.
Saruhashi Park Scenery
Surrounding park
Enjoy the natural beauty of the park, especially vibrant with maple and ginkgo trees during autumn.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Saruhashi Bridge
Getting to Saruhashi Bridge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk Down for Views
Don't miss the path down to the water for a unique perspective of the bridge and valley.
🚗 Parking is Limited
The parking lot isn't large; consider arriving early or using the train.
🍁 Autumn is Magical
The park's maple and ginkgo trees are spectacular in fall.
🐒 Bridge Legend
Learn about the legend of monkeys forming the bridge, inspiring its name.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk Down for Views
Don't miss the path down to the water for a unique perspective of the bridge and valley.
🚗 Parking is Limited
The parking lot isn't large; consider arriving early or using the train.
🍁 Autumn is Magical
The park's maple and ginkgo trees are spectacular in fall.
🐒 Bridge Legend
Learn about the legend of monkeys forming the bridge, inspiring its name.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Saruhashi Bridge for its unique architectural design and scenic beauty, especially during autumn. The historical significance and the captivating views from both above and below are frequently highlighted. Some note that the parking facilities are limited, and the walk down to the river involves stairs.
"This place is famous as one of Japan's three great unusual bridges. There is a parking lot, but it’s not very large. The view of Saruhashi from above is interesting, but seeing it from below offers a different and equally captivating perspective."
World Hiro
"Beautiful place. Very scenic place and well constructed wooden bridge.
If you go down the stairs, the path takes you to the museum, park and spot near the water body."
Mugdha Gosavi-Kulkarni
"So nice... ate the pork and ginger dish... unfortunately for me... I'm going to struggle to find this dish again... so good. A must visit if in the area."
Mark Ayre
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Saruhashi Bridge is about 1.5 to 2 hours from central Tokyo by train. Take the Chuo Line to Otsuki Station, then a short local train to Saruhashi Station. The bridge is a 20-minute walk from Saruhashi Station.
Yes, there is a parking lot, but it's noted as not very large. It's located about 8 minutes from the bridge itself.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination, offering a scenic escape from the city with beautiful nature and unique architecture.
Many visitors find the train to be a convenient option, especially if you want to avoid potential parking issues. The walk from Saruhashi Station is pleasant.
While not directly adjacent, Saruhashi Bridge is in Yamanashi Prefecture, which is the region where Mt. Fuji is located. It can be part of a broader trip exploring the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to Saruhashi Bridge and the surrounding park is generally free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
The bridge and park are typically open year-round during daylight hours. It's best to check local listings for any specific seasonal hours.
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously.
Generally, visitors are expected to respect the historical structure and natural surroundings. Stick to designated paths.
The bridge itself is a historical wooden structure. Accessing the views from below involves stairs, which may be challenging for some.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the bridge's unique curve from the park above, and don't miss the dramatic shots from the valley floor below.
Early morning or late afternoon light can offer beautiful, soft illumination for your photos, minimizing harsh shadows.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and historical sites to protect the environment and visitor experience. Check local regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the bridge's span and surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for details.
Autumn is a prime time for photography with vibrant fall colors. Spring offers greenery, and winter can provide a serene, snow-dusted scene.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the bridge itself is a historical structure, the park offers a pleasant environment for a family outing. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities might be limited. The train journey to Saruhashi Station can also be an enjoyable part of the adventure for younger travelers.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
+1The accessibility via public transport makes it easy to incorporate into an itinerary, and the short walk from the station adds to the sense of discovery. You can spend a few hours here, enjoying the different perspectives of the bridge and the serene park, making it a rewarding solo excursion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Saruhashi Bridge
The bridge's name, 'Saru-hashi,' translates to 'Monkey Bridge,' stemming from a local legend where monkeys are said to have formed a living bridge with their bodies to cross the deep valley. This folklore adds a layer of mystique to the already fascinating structure. The surrounding park, with its seasonal foliage, complements the bridge, offering a serene natural setting that enhances the overall visitor experience.
While the bridge itself is the main draw, exploring the area around it provides further context and appreciation. Walking down to the riverbed offers a different, equally stunning perspective of the bridge's construction and its integration with the dramatic landscape. This multi-faceted viewing experience is what makes Saruhashi Bridge a memorable destination.
Experiencing Saruhashi Park and Surroundings
Visitors can explore various viewpoints within the park, each offering a unique angle of the Saruhashi Bridge and the deep valley it gracefully spans. A popular activity is descending the stairs to reach the river level, providing a dramatic and often breathtaking perspective of the bridge's cantilevered design. This lower vantage point truly highlights the engineering feat and the sheer scale of the gorge.
For those interested in local history and culture, the area around Saruhashi Bridge provides a glimpse into traditional Japanese landscapes. The journey to the bridge itself, often involving a scenic train ride and a short walk, adds to the overall experience, making it feel like a discovery of a hidden gem away from the bustling city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit