Sada Submerged Bridge (Shimanto City, Kochi Prefecture)

Sada Submerged Bridge (Shimanto City, Kochi Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Sada's Chinkabashi Bridge is one of the remaining "Chinkabashi" bridges along the Shimanto River that flows through Shimanto City, Kochi Prefecture. A chinkabashi is a low-rise bridge without a railing, built to be submerged during floods, and characterized by its rational structure to prevent damage from driftwood and muddy waters during floods. It is popular with tourists for its simple appearance, which has been used as a local road for many years, and the scenery created by the majestic nature of the Shimanto River. It is also known as a popular photo spot, combining the morning and evening light, river mist, and surrounding rural scenery.

Highlights

• The clear waters of the Shimanto River and the location of the sunken bridge: The bridge, the river surface, and the surrounding mountains create a quintessentially Japanese landscape.
• Seasonal expressions:
  • Spring: Fresh greenery and the bridge reflected in the rice paddies after rice planting.
  • Early summer: There are places where you can see fireflies by the water, creating a fantastical scene in the evenings.
  • Summer: People enjoying canoeing and playing in the river.
  • Autumn: The season when the surrounding trees change color.
• Photo spots: In addition to capturing the entire bridge, we recommend taking photos from different angles from the downstream and upstream banks.
• Visiting submerged bridges: There are several submerged bridges along the Shimanto River, and it's fun to explore them by driving or cycling.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Public Transportation: Public transportation in the Shimanto River basin is limited, so you may need to walk or take a taxi from the nearest train station or bus stop. It's common to start from nearby JR stations or major terminals, such as Ekawasaki Station or Kubokawa Station (distance from the station and travel time will vary depending on the bridge's location).
• By car: The most convenient way to get there is via national or prefectural roads from the center of Shimanto City. There are often small parking spaces in the area, but please note that the number of spaces is limited.
• Rental cars and bicycles: You can rent a car in Shimanto City, or if you have time, we recommend taking a leisurely tour on a sightseeing bicycle.
• Sightseeing tours: You can avoid the hassle of travelling by taking a tour run by a Shimanto River tourism company that includes a submerged bridge and canoeing experience.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short stop: 15-30 minutes for photography and walking around.
• If you want to take it easy: 1-2 hours, including walking around the area and taking a break on the riverbank.
• If you combine the tour with visiting sunken bridges and canoeing: Half a day to a full day (varies depending on the duration of the experience and travel time).

Nearby spots

• Visit other submerged bridges along the Shimanto River (the scenery varies depending on the area)
• Canoeing and river rafting experience (enjoy the clear waters of the Shimanto River up close)
• Roadside stations (local specialties and rest spots)
• Local restaurants and farm-fresh markets (Shimanto River seafood, local cuisine)
• Depending on the season, there are spots for watching fireflies and fishing.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Safety
  • There is a risk of falling off the bridge as it does not have a railing. Please be especially careful if you are traveling with small children or if the ground is uneven.
  • The bridge may be submerged in water during rain or when the river is high. The current is fast and dangerous, so do not approach it when the water is high. Check local river information and warnings in advance.
• Transportation and Parking
  • Bridges are often residential roads and there may be vehicular traffic. Please be careful not to stand on the bridge for long periods of time while taking photos or block the road.
  • Parking spaces are limited, so please use designated parking lots if available. Parking on the street will cause inconvenience to neighbors.
• Consideration for nature and the local area
  • Please be sure to take your trash with you, enjoy the area quietly, and respect the local environment.
  • Filming and drone use may be disruptive and dangerous. Please check regulations and permissions before using a drone.
• Seasonal precautions
  • During the rainy season and when a typhoon approaches, there is a greater risk of flooding and muddy waters. Please make it a habit to check weather and river information.
  • Don't forget to take precautions against the sun and heatstroke in the summer, and the cold in the winter.

Finally, Sada's Submerged Bridge is a simple and charming spot that symbolizes the scenery of the Shimanto River. When visiting, please be considerate of the natural environment and local life, and enjoy the beautiful scenery while putting safety first.