Meganebashi Bridge (Spectacles Bridge)

4.1 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Historical Landmark・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Meganebashi Bridge, commonly known as Spectacles Bridge, is a charming and unique landmark in Nagasaki. Built in 1634, it is the oldest stone arch bridge in Japan and gets its name from the way its two arches reflect in the water, resembling a pair of spectacles. This picturesque view has made it one of Nagasaki's most photographed spots.

The bridge was originally constructed by a Chinese monk to help locals cross the Nakashima River. Its design is not only beautiful but also an engineering marvel of its time, demonstrating advanced techniques in stonework and construction. The double-arch design was innovative for Japan and has stood the test of time, surviving many floods and natural disasters.

Today, Meganebashi Bridge is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. It's a peaceful place to stroll, enjoy the scenery, and reflect on the blend of cultural influences that shape Nagasaki. The area around the bridge is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season when the surrounding trees are in full bloom.

Hours:

24/7

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome.

Fees:

Free

Hours

Monday: Open 24 hours

Tuesday: Open 24 hours

Wednesday: Open 24 hours

Thursday: Open 24 hours

Friday: Open 24 hours

Saturday: Open 24 hours

Sunday: Open 24 hours

Phone

+81 95-829-1162

Website

www.city.nagasaki.lg.jp

The area

Address

2 Uonomachi, Nagasaki, 850-0874, Japan

Top ways to experience Meganebashi Bridge (Spectacles Bridge)

8hrs

Full Day Nagasaki Private Walking Tour With A Local Guide

From $319 /person

3hrs

3 Hours Introductory Tour Of Nagasaki

From $135 /person

2-3hrs

Self-Guided Audio Tour of Nagasaki

From $18 /person

What other travelers are saying about Meganebashi Bridge (Spectacles Bridge)

Also known as The Spectacles Bridge, it has the double arches. One of several bridges along the river - each beautiful in its own way. Fun to walk down to the path along the bank and cross the stepping stones. Some big Koi fish in the pond before the small weir. We saw a couple having wedding photos below the bridge - beautiful.

Vincent Oliver

Oct 21, 2024

this bridge was one of the old bridge built with stone. i thought this is a beautiful bridge with the view of the river. it was raining hard when we arrived here so no other people around. the bridge also named 'spectacles bridge' because of its shape

lenny lenny

Jul 6, 2024

Meganebashi (Spectacles Bridge) is the oldest arch-shaped stone bridge in Japan and is designated as an Important Cultural Property. It was originally built in 1634 under the supervision of Mokusu Nyojo, a Chinese monk who later became the abbot of Kofuku-ji Temple. After being badly damaged by floodwaters in 1982, it was subsequently repaired with the original stones that had been recovered. The reflection of the double arches on the river surface creates an image resembling a pair of eyeglasses, which is how it got its name. The best vantage point to capture an iconic shot is from one of the other bridges nearby.

Rod Wong

Jul 31, 2024

Lovely spot for photos! Meganebashi (眼鏡橋) or Spectacles Bridge, over the Nakashima River (中島川) was built in Nagasaki in 1634 by the Chinese monk Mokusunyoujo who was in the second generation of Chinese monks living at Kofukuji Temple. It is said to be the oldest stone arch bridge in Japan along with Edo's Nihonbashi bridge and Iwakuni's Kintaikyou bridge and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property.

Brandon H

Oct 26, 2024

Built in 1634, this is the oldest stone-arch bridge in Japan. Its name means '"spectacles" or "glasses" in Japanese , and got its name from the reflection of its two arches on the river. Quite beautiful in design on its own, but the river and the nearby bridges are lovely. Well worth a visit.