Ranbashi - A Small Bridge in the History of Kamakura

A Place where the History of the Warring States Period Breathes

Ranbashi, as its name suggests, is a bridge derived from a melee that occurred in Kamakura during the Warring States period. It is now just a bridge over a small river, but in 1333, during Nitta Yoshisada's attack on Kamakura, this place became the stage of fierce battles between the Kamakura shogunate army and the Nitta army.

Fierce Battlefield of the Kamakura Attack

When the Nitta army invaded the center of Kamakura, the Kamakura shogunate army attempted to make its final stand by guarding this bridge. However, with the main slopes of Kamakura already fallen, the defense was thin, and as a result, the Nitta army overwhelmed the Kamakura shogunate army, and the bridge was named 'Ranbashi' due to the chaos that ensued.

A Place to Feel the Breath of History, However Small

Even though it is now just a bridge over a small river, if you visit this place, you will still be able to feel the breath of the Warring States period. A large stone monument tells the history of the bridge, and you can still feel the atmosphere of that time in the quiet residential area around it.

Ranbashi is a lesser-known hidden gem among the historical spots of Kamakura. However, by immersing yourself in history and visiting this small bridge, you may discover a new side of Kamakura.