菊水橋 Stele

Nestled along the Higashiyokobori River, the Kuhojibashi Stele marks the spot of one of Osaka’s oldest bridges. This unassuming stele whispers tales of a bygone era, a time when samurai strolled across wooden planks and merchants hawked their wares along the bustling riverbanks. Kuhojibashi Bridge, whose name echoes in the stele, dates back to the era of the legendary Hideyoshi Toyotomi. The bridge’s moniker originates from the Kuhoji Temple, believed to have stood on the bridge’s western side. Another theory suggests it derived its name from the influx of Kuhoji Village residents who migrated to the area during the Dotonbori River’s excavation in 1612. Imagine the Kuhojibashi Bridge in the Edo period. It was a wooden structure, approximately 42 meters long and 3.6 meters wide. The eastern side served as a timber beach, alive with the trade of bamboo and wood. The western side, a gateway to Senba’s heart, pulsed with the energy of haberdashery dealers and craftsmen. Now, the Kuhojibashi Stele stands sentinel over a modern reinforced concrete bridge. This Gelber-type bridge, measuring 41.52 meters long and 12.50 meters wide, features three spans and two central piers. Its deep green railings and sleek lighting create a striking contrast to the historical whispers of the Kuhojibashi Stele. The Kuhojibashi Stele isn’t just a marker. It’s a portal to a vibrant past. It connects us to the heart of old Osaka. It reminds us of the river’s vital role in shaping the city’s identity.