Spectacles Bridge / Megane Bridge
Meganebashi (Spectacles Bridge) is an elegant double-arch stone bridge spanning the Nakashima River in Nagasaki City. Measuring 22 meters in length, 3.65 meters in width, and about 5.5 meters above the water, the bridge earned its name “Spectacles Bridge” because its arches and their reflection on the river resemble a pair of eyeglasses.
The bridge was constructed in 1634 under the direction of Mokusunijō (Mozi Rujing), the second abbot of Kōfukuji Temple who had come from China. At that time, repeated floods of the Nakashima River had destroyed many wooden bridges. To solve this, he invited Chinese stonemasons to build Japan’s first stone arch bridge (excluding Tennyobashi, which then belonged to the Ryukyu Kingdom).
Meganebashi is unique for being the only double-arch design among the stone bridges of the Nakashima River. In 1648, it was damaged by flooding and repaired by the Hirado stonemason Hirado Komu. Over the centuries, while it sustained partial damage in various floods, the structure was never completely lost, proving both the solidity of its construction and the wisdom of its design. During the 1982 Nagasaki Flood, Meganebashi and nine other stone bridges along the river were severely damaged, with most washed away. Although half of Meganebashi collapsed, its main body survived.
During the restoration, remains of Edo-period stone steps were discovered. To honor historical authenticity, the bridge ends were reconstructed in stair-step form. It is noteworthy that in 1873 the steps were converted into ramps to allow rickshaws to pass, but in 1948, vehicle access was prohibited and the bridge was reserved for pedestrians only. During the repair, stones washed downstream were reused, preserving historical traces while restoring the bridge’s completeness.
To prevent future flood damage, underground diversion channels were constructed along the riverbanks without altering the bridge’s structure or scenery. The surrounding area was also redeveloped with walkways and roadside trees. Today, Meganebashi is not only an important cultural asset of Nagasaki but has also been designated a National Important Cultural Property since 1960, making it a must-see landmark for both citizens and visitors.
