Horai Bridge
Walk the world's longest wooden pedestrian bridge (897.4m) in Shimada, Shizuoka. A 'bridge of good luck' with potential Mount Fuji views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for Fuji views
Horai Bridge
Best Time
Best chance for Fuji views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk the world's longest wooden pedestrian bridge (897.4m) in Shimada, Shizuoka. A 'bridge of good luck' with potential Mount Fuji views.
"Fulfilling to finish the walk, felt like achievers!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
It's a long walk! You'll want comfy footwear for the 897.4m bridge. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Small Entry Fee
A small fee (around 100 yen) applies, but it's worth it for the experience and views. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World's Longest Wooden Pedestrian Bridge
Walk the entire 897.4 meters of this Guinness World Record holder. Feel the history and enjoy the river views.
Mount Fuji Views
From the bridge
On clear days, catch a glimpse of the iconic Mount Fuji in the distance. A truly breathtaking sight.
Horai Bridge 897.4 Teahouse
Foot of the bridge
Relax and enjoy tea at this charming teahouse located right at the bridge's entrance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Lengthy Stroll
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
It's a long walk! You'll want comfy footwear for the 897.4m bridge. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Small Entry Fee
A small fee (around 100 yen) applies, but it's worth it for the experience and views. :moneybag:
🤞 Good Luck Charm
The bridge is considered lucky. Say a prayer at the end for good fortune! :pray:
📸 Photo Challenges
Capturing both the bridge and Mt. Fuji together can be tricky. Plan your shots! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
It's a long walk! You'll want comfy footwear for the 897.4m bridge. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Small Entry Fee
A small fee (around 100 yen) applies, but it's worth it for the experience and views. :moneybag:
🤞 Good Luck Charm
The bridge is considered lucky. Say a prayer at the end for good fortune! :pray:
📸 Photo Challenges
Capturing both the bridge and Mt. Fuji together can be tricky. Plan your shots! :camerawithflash:
🚗 Parking Available
Free parking is available nearby, making it convenient for drivers. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Horai Bridge for its unique status as the world's longest wooden pedestrian bridge and its 'good luck' associations. The walk is often described as fulfilling, with the potential for stunning Mount Fuji views on clear days. Some note the challenge of capturing both elements in photos and the small entry fee.
"We were tired and hungry as we had toured a lot on the day. However, we decided to see this Horai bridge that’s recorded in Guinness world records. It was fulfilling to finish our walk to the end. We felt like achievers when we finally completed our walk in and out of the bridge🤩 It is recommended to say a word of prayer when you get to the end of the bridge.🙏🏾"
Aretha Afari Amoah
"Hōrai Bridge is a long wooden bridge located in Shimada City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan.
It crosses the Ōi River and is famous for being one of the longest wooden pedestrian bridges in the world.
The bridge is about 897 meters long and was built in 1879."
Yuki S
"I was the only one here. But I wonder at Osaka's EXPO is that now the longest pedestrian wood bridge in the world???"
Ray Fitzgerald
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the Shinkansen to Shimada Station in Shizuoka Prefecture, then it's a short walk to the bridge. :train: Some visitors also arrive by car, with free parking available nearby. :car:
Yes, Shimada Station is well-connected by JR Tokaido Line. From the station, it's a pleasant walk to the bridge. :bus:
Absolutely! There is free parking available near the bridge, making it a convenient option for those traveling by car. :parking:
A unique stopover is to take the Shinkansen to Shimada Station, visit the Horai Bridge, and then continue your journey. It breaks up the trip nicely. :bullettrain_top:
The Horai Bridge 897.4 Teahouse is right at the foot of the bridge, offering a place to relax and enjoy refreshments. :coffee:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small entry fee of around 100 yen for adults to walk across the bridge. Many visitors find it well worth the nominal cost. :ticket:
The bridge is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's a pedestrian bridge, so it's open for walking when it's safe to do so. :clock:
Yes, a small fee of approximately 100 JPY is charged for adults. Some reviews suggest that even without paying, access might not be strictly enforced, but it's recommended to pay. :yen:
As a wooden pedestrian bridge, it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and to enjoy the scenery. :sunriseovermountains:
Information on specific discounts is limited, but the entry fee is already very low, making it an affordable experience for most visitors. :moneywithwings:
📸 📸 Photography
The entire length of the bridge offers great photo opportunities. For iconic shots, try to capture the bridge with the Oi River and, if you're lucky, Mount Fuji in the background. :camera:
Yes, on clear days, Mount Fuji is visible from the bridge. However, capturing both the bridge and Fuji in a single frame can be challenging due to the bridge's length and perspective. :mountain_snow:
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be helpful for capturing the full length of the bridge. :iphone:
Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. :noentrysign:
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and potentially fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic experience. :sunflower:
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Walking the entire 897.4 meters can take about 15-20 minutes one way, depending on your pace. Many visitors walk across and back. :running:
It's recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's longest wooden pedestrian bridge. It's also considered a 'bridge of good luck' and 'longevity'. :tada:
Yes, free public restrooms are available nearby, which is convenient for visitors. :toilet:
The bridge is a flat, wooden walkway. It's generally easy to traverse, though the length requires stamina. :walking:
No, Horai Bridge is a pedestrian-only bridge. Cycling is not permitted. :no_bicycles:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Horai Bridge
+1 The bridge was originally built to facilitate crossing the often treacherous Oi River, which was known for its rapid currents and was difficult to cross, especially during flood seasons.The name 'Horai' itself is associated with a mythical island paradise in Chinese mythology, and the bridge is often referred to as a 'bridge of good luck' or 'longevity'.
This is partly due to the Japanese pronunciation of its length, 8974 (hachi-kyū-nana-yon), which can be interpreted as 'no bad luck' (厄なし, yakunashi).Historically, crossing the Oi River was a significant challenge. During the Edo period, the river was so difficult to cross that it was said, 'Even horses cannot cross the Oi River in eight ri' (a unit of distance), implying it was a dangerous and time-consuming endeavor.
The construction of the Horai Bridge provided a much-needed stable crossing, connecting communities and facilitating travel along the old Tokaido road.Experiencing the Walk and Views
While the walk itself is a highlight, the views from the bridge are also noteworthy. On clear days, visitors are treated to distant views of Mount Fuji, adding a majestic backdrop to the experience.
For those interested in a more tranquil experience, visiting on a weekday or during clear mornings is advisable to avoid crowds and maximize the chances of seeing Mount Fuji. The bridge is generally accessible during daylight hours, and a small entry fee of around 100 yen is typically charged, which most visitors consider a worthwhile expense for the unique experience and views it offers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit