Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama in Kyoto

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Facts & Figures

Togetsukyo Bridge (literally "moon crossing bridge"), which spans the Katsura River, is one of the highlights within the beautiful Arashiyama district. When crossing the 155-meter long bridge enjoy the stunning scenery especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn leaves season.  Explore Ryokans in Kyoto >
Ryokans are the perfect way to discover old Japanese culture and traditions. From the outside it looks like the whole bridge is a wooden construction, but only the railing is made out of wood. The columns and beans are reinforced concrete. Interesting to know that the bridge marks the point where the Hozu River (Hozugawa) changes its name into Katsura River (Katsuragawa). Many rickshaws shuttles will cross the bridge during your visit. It gives this whole area a feeling of the old Kyoto times during the Heian Period. If you are interested in watching cormorant fishing in the end of the summer this is the place to be. Togetsukyo Bridge was featured in many historical Japanese movies. Take a relaxing stroll along the river banks and enjoy the view of this beautiful bridge. If you have some time left start feeding some hungry carp (koi) in the river:)

• Togetsukyo Bridge:
• Admission fee - free

My tips for local activities

How about exploring the beautiful Arashiyama district (incl. Sagano Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo bridge, Tenryuji temple and some special food) in Kyoto with a local guide. Check out this page > for more details.

History

The history of Togetsukyo Bridge is dating back hundreds of years. In 836 the first bridge was built at this place. The whole structure was many times destroyed by floods and war, but always rebuilt afterwards. The current construction was completed in 1934. This place became especially popular during the Heian Period (794-1185), when the ruling class enjoyed here moon viewing parties. Emperor Kameyama (1249-1305) gave the bridge its poetic name. He mentioned during a late-night party on a boat under full moon that the moon looked like it was crossing the bridge.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

cherry blossoms and fall foliage - enjoy the great views and have your camera ready to capture this moment of beauty

boat cruise - rent a boat nearby the bridge and start exploring the Katsura River and the surrounding area

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

February

Setsubun (3rd)
One day before spring arrives (lunar calendar) the Setsubun is celebrated. Bean throwing (Mame maki) ceremonies are held at the shrine to get a good fortune for the year. Do not miss the bonfire on the evening.

April

Miyako Odori (1st - 31th)
The traditional annual spring dance of the Kyoto district Gion Kobu performed by Geiko and Maiko is a must-see on your Kyoto visit. Don't miss the most popular dances the Miyako Odori "Cherry Blossom Dances" or "Dances of the Old Capital" at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater (located close to Gion Corner).

May

Ochatsubo Dochu (1st)
The Ochatsubo Dochu or Traveling Tea Canisters festival dates back to the Edo Period. It represents the practice of showing the new tea harvest from Uji to the ruling shogun in the old days. Now during the parade large ceramic containers with tea are carried by people wearing traditional costumes from Kenninji Temple to Yasaka Shrine.

Aoi Matsuri (15th)
The highlight of this festival is a large parade from Imperial Palace through Shimogamo Shrine to the Kamo Shrines. More than 500 people wearing aristocratic costumes from the Heian Period (794 - 1185). The Aoi Matsuri belongs with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri to the three most famous festivals in Kyoto.

Mifune Matsuri (third Sunday of May)
20 boats recreate the scenery of a ancient boat party. Approximately 100000 tourists come to this festival every year and witness a beautiful spectacle. People dressed in traditional costumes proceed along the amazing Togetsu-kyo Bridge, board the boats and follow the river through Arashiayama.

July

Gion Matsuri (whole month)
The month July is full of different events like the Yoiyama - Kyoto's Magical Night (locals in kimonos look at the giant Gion floats the day before the parade) or the famous Yamaboko Junko (float procession on the 17th of July).

October

Jidai Matsuri ("Festival of Ages") (22nd)
People celebrate with a large parade between Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine the anniversary of the foundation of Kyoto. App. 2000 participants wearing historical costumes from different time periods. Enjoy this great festival which last around 2 hours.