Walking on the Sada Chinkabashi bridge feels like being on a one-way street. Luckily, there are spots to step aside for cars, but since there are no railings, it actually feels a bit scary!

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Sada Chinkabashi
The longest Chinkabashi bridge over Shikoku’s longest river, Shimantogawa.
The bridge is over the Shimanto River, which is called “Japan’s last clean stream” with ample clear water.
Chinkabashi is without the rails to avoid being washed away. It is designed to go underwater in times of flood. The idea is not to rule over nature, but to live with it. The bridge over the grand Shimanto River is the symbol of the meek lifestyle of the residents.
Shimanto River has many Chinkabashi. The most famous is Sada Chinkabashi, which is 291.6m long with blue legs. Vehicles cannot pass each other there and drivers need to watch the traffic.
Canoeing, stand-up paddle and rafting. Shimanto River is the mecca of water activities. There are quite a few activities that beginners can participate safely with the help of instructors. Try some of them and be up close to the Shimanto River’s rich nature.
Highlights
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The 291.6m-long Chinkabashi bridge over Shikoku’s longest river, Shimantogawa.
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Take a photo of Shimanto River and the bridge, the symbol of the cohabitation of humans and nature.
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The 4.2m-wide bridge without railings is thrilling to cross in a car.
Photos
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Sada is at the lowest part of the Shimanto River Photo by Public foundation of Kochi Visitors & Convention Association
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Chinkabashi over Shimanto River is a beauty no matter which part you capture Photo by Public foundation of Kochi Visitors & Convention Association
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Shimanto River is called “Japan’s last clean stream” with ample clear water Photo by Public foundation of Kochi Visitors & Convention Association
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Sada Chinkabashi Photo by Public foundation of Kochi Visitors & Convention Association
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Sada Chinkabashi Photo by Public foundation of Kochi Visitors & Convention Association
Reviews
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劉家芳
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OPQ Hsu
This bridge was built without railings to prevent flood damage. When the water rises, the bridge just sinks under the river. It's a really unique design!
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 佐田沈下橋
- Postal Code
- 787-1106
- Address
- Sada, Shimanto City, Kochi
- Telephone
- 0880-35-4171 (Shimanto City Tourism Association)
- Hours
- Free to see anytime
- Directions
- From Tosa Kuroshio Railway, Nakamura Station, drive 15 min.
- Official Website
- Shimanto City Tourism Association (Japanese)