Tsujun Bridge

Tsujun Bridge is one of Japan’s largest stone arch aqueduct bridges, located in Yamato Town, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto Prefecture. It spans the Gorogadaki River on the south side of Mt. Aso’s outer rim. The bridge is massive: length 78 m, width 6.3 m, height 20 m, and arch span 28 m. Built in 1854, it is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Watching the water discharge (hosui) is atmospheric both from below and from on top of the bridge. It was built to send water to the Shiroito Plateau, which suffered from water shortages, and it still operates today. During the Hassaku Festival, Tsujun Bridge performs multiple discharges to liven up the event. Nearby are tourist spots such as Goroga Falls, Futa Shrine, Roadside Station Tsujun Bridge Products Hall, and Seiwa Kogen Observatory, and the area is busy with visitors. The sight of a large volume of water pouring down from the high bridge is a rare spectacle in Japan. Access: about 80 minutes by bus from the Kumamoto Kotsu Center. There is free parking for 80 cars, so driving is also recommended.