Kamejima Bridge is a stone bridge located in Hatchobori, Chuo-ku, Tokyo. It spans a river called Arakawa, connecting Tokyo Station and Nihonbashi. The surrounding area is lined with townhouses dating back to the Edo period, preserving the rich atmosphere of old Edo.
The name of this bridge has a very interesting origin. There was once a small island called 'Kamejima' in this area, and the bridge was named 'Kamejima Bridge' because its shape resembled that of a turtle. Walking along the riverside, you can catch a glimpse of the island that looks like a turtle.
The vicinity of Kamejima Bridge is dotted with places associated with various great figures.
There is a monument to one of the Forty-seven Ronin, 'Horiuemon Moriyoshi', near the bridge, which serves as a testament to his residence in this area. Additionally, there are records of the favorite haiku of the poet Matsuo Basho, and the residences of the ukiyo-e artist Hokusai, and the geographer Ino Tadataka, indicating that this was an historically significant location.
When viewed from the center of Kamejima Bridge, you can see the distant figure of the Tokyo Skytree. The merging of the historic Edo townscape with the modern Tokyo landscape is a unique charm of Kamejima Bridge. At night, it is enveloped in a fantastic play of lights, presenting a different facade.
Kamejima Bridge is a place where history and tradition are richly preserved. While feeling the streetscape and places associated with great figures from the Edo period, you can also enjoy the modern scenery of Tokyo. Be sure to encounter the charm of the intersecting old and modern times here.