This is the Sacred Bridge that spans the Daiya River in Nikko. The bridge is lacquered red with gilt metal ornaments and serves as the informal entrance to the site. The bridge marks the legendary spot where a famous Buddhist priest of the eighth century (Shodo) crosses the river on the backs of two giant serpents on a pilgrimage. This bridge is also important because it represents some of the newest technology of its age in Japan. The original bridge at the site was simply an arch supported by wood. The new bridge, constructed in the 1630s, was supported by stone. This technique was a great achievement in contsruction techonology that probably developed due to the vast castle projects. |
