Tsujun Bridge Kumamoto
A magnificent 19th-century stone aqueduct, Japan's largest, offering stunning views and a unique train ride experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for water discharge
Tsujun Bridge Kumamoto
Best Time
Best chance for water discharge
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 19th-century stone aqueduct, Japan's largest, offering stunning views and a unique train ride experience.
"The Super Cart ride over Tsujun Bridge is a highlight, offering breathtaking views and a memorable experience."
Check Weather for Train
Strong winds can affect the Super Cart ride. Always check conditions before your visit! :cloud:
Book Train Tickets Early
The Amaterasu Railway trip is popular. Arrive early or book in advance if possible to secure your spot. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tsujun Bridge Super Cart Ride
Takachiho Amaterasu Railway
Ride a unique cart over Japan's tallest railway bridge for breathtaking views and conductor performances.
Tsujun Bridge from Below
Roadside viewpoint
Admire the grandeur of this historic stone aqueduct bridge, a testament to engineering from the Edo period.
Gorougataki Falls
Near Tsujun Bridge
A beautiful waterfall cascading near the Tsujun Bridge, adding to the natural splendor of the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Train Ride
Bridge Views from Below
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Weather for Train
Strong winds can affect the Super Cart ride. Always check conditions before your visit! :cloud:
Book Train Tickets Early
The Amaterasu Railway trip is popular. Arrive early or book in advance if possible to secure your spot. :ticket:
Photo Opportunities Galore
Plenty of time is allocated for photos on the train. Capture the stunning views from the bridge! :camerawithflash:
Dual Viewpoints
Experience the bridge from both the train and the road below for a comprehensive appreciation. :bridge:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Weather for Train
Strong winds can affect the Super Cart ride. Always check conditions before your visit! :cloud:
Book Train Tickets Early
The Amaterasu Railway trip is popular. Arrive early or book in advance if possible to secure your spot. :ticket:
Photo Opportunities Galore
Plenty of time is allocated for photos on the train. Capture the stunning views from the bridge! :camerawithflash:
Dual Viewpoints
Experience the bridge from both the train and the road below for a comprehensive appreciation. :bridge:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Tsujun Bridge's historical significance and engineering prowess, especially when experienced via the Amaterasu Railway's Super Cart. The unique perspective from the train and the natural beauty of the surrounding area are frequently praised. However, accessibility can be a challenge for those relying on public transport, and weather conditions can impact the train ride.
"You can only view the train from the road at the bottom. For railway ride need to go to Takachiho Station"
Low Kok Wah
"This is the old Takachiho Railway bridge over the Iwato River.
It is 105m above the water level at the bottom of the valley, making it the tallest railway bridge in Japan.
Nowadays, you can take a ride in the Takachiho Amaterasu Railway's Super Cart to enjoy a spectacular view from directly above the bridge.
(Note: It may be difficult to access the bridge depending on weather conditions such as strong winds.)"
Hirofumi Saito (Kamedaifuku)
"We passed over the bridge on the Takachiho Amaterasu Railway's Super Cart. The beautiful scenery and the conductor's performance were very moving."
Seiichi Hoshi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tsujun Bridge is located in Yamato, Kumamoto Prefecture. The most common way to access it is by car, as it's a bit off the main tourist routes. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility.
Public transport to Tsujun Bridge is challenging. While there might be local buses, they are infrequent. Renting a car is the most practical way to visit.
For exploring Kyushu and reaching Tsujun Bridge, a road trip with a rental car is ideal. This allows you to easily visit other attractions like Mount Aso and Takachiho Gorge.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near Tsujun Bridge, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, Tsujun Bridge can be visited as a day trip from Kumamoto City, but it will be a long day due to the driving time. It's often combined with other attractions in the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Viewing the Tsujun Bridge from the roadside is generally free. However, if you wish to ride the Amaterasu Railway's Super Cart for a unique perspective, you will need to purchase a ticket for that experience.
The Amaterasu Railway Super Cart trip typically costs around 2,000 yen per person. It's advisable to check the latest pricing directly with the railway operator.
The operating hours for the Amaterasu Railway can vary. It's best to check their official schedule in advance, especially as they may have specific times for the Super Cart rides.
Gorougataki Falls, located near Tsujun Bridge, is typically accessible without an admission fee, allowing visitors to enjoy its natural beauty freely.
Walking on the Tsujun Bridge itself is generally not permitted for safety and preservation reasons. Visitors typically view it from designated viewpoints or via the Amaterasu Railway.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots include the roadside viewpoints offering a full view of the bridge and the surrounding nature, as well as from the Amaterasu Railway Super Cart for a unique aerial perspective.
Yes, even on a cloudy day, Tsujun Bridge offers a dramatic and atmospheric scene. The mist and diffused light can create unique photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light for photography. However, the Super Cart ride provides a unique experience regardless of the time of day.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in the area before flying.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the bridge and its surroundings. A telephoto lens can be good for details. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the Tsujun Bridge itself, a magnificent stone aqueduct bridge, and the unique experience of riding the Amaterasu Railway's Super Cart over it.
Tsujun Bridge is Japan's largest stone arch aqueduct, built in 1854 to irrigate the dry Shiraito Plateau. It's a national treasure and an engineering marvel. 
The bridge is known for its impressive water discharge, which is released once a day. This is a highlight for many visitors, so timing your visit is recommended.
Nearby attractions include Gorougataki Falls and the general natural beauty of the Yamato area. It's often visited in conjunction with Takachiho Gorge.
Yes, you can enjoy a leisurely visit by taking in the views from the roadside, exploring the surrounding nature, and perhaps enjoying the Super Cart ride.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the bridge itself is impressive, the surrounding natural areas offer space for children to explore. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities might be limited. The drive to Tsujun Bridge can be long, so plan for breaks if traveling with very young children.
🚗 Road Trippers
Parking is available, making it easy to stop and admire the bridge. The scenic drive to the bridge itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of rural Japanese landscapes. Ensure your navigation system is up-to-date, as some areas might have spotty GPS signal.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Don't forget to also capture the bridge from the roadside viewpoints and the nearby Gorougataki Falls. Consider visiting during different times of the day to experience varying light conditions. The bridge's imposing structure against the backdrop of the valley is a compelling subject.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Tsujun Bridge
+1Its construction involved diverting water from the upper reaches of the Kawabegawa River, creating a vast network for irrigation. The bridge has proven remarkably resilient, withstanding significant natural disasters like the Kumamoto earthquakes and heavy rains. It is recognized as a National Treasure of Japan, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.
+1Visitors can appreciate the bridge's scale and design from various viewpoints. The Amaterasu Railway's Super Cart offers a particularly thrilling perspective, traversing directly over the bridge and providing panoramic views of the valley below. This unique experience, combined with the bridge's historical significance, makes Tsujun Bridge a must-visit for those interested in Japanese history and engineering.
Experiencing the Amaterasu Railway
Beyond the bridge, the Super Cart ride is known for its entertaining conductors who often engage passengers with performances and commentary, adding a lively atmosphere to the journey. The railway itself traverses scenic routes, showcasing the natural beauty of the Kyushu region. It's a popular activity, so it's advisable to book tickets in advance or arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment.
While the Super Cart ride is the main draw, the railway also offers other services and is a charming way to explore the area. The experience is often described as magical and memorable, with ample time allocated for photography, making it a highlight for many visitors to Takachiho.
Natural Beauty and Nearby Attractions
While Tsujun Bridge is a significant attraction, it's often visited as part of a broader exploration of the Kyushu region. Many travelers combine a visit to Tsujun Bridge with other popular destinations like Takachiho Gorge, known for its emerald green waters and boat rides through a volcanic canyon.
This combination allows visitors to experience both historical engineering marvels and breathtaking natural landscapes. The rural setting of Tsujun Bridge offers a peaceful escape from the bustling cities, providing a glimpse into the serene side of Japan.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit