Across bustling Osaka, the Iwasaki Bridge stands as a quiet observer. It gracefully arches over the O River, connecting Tenma and Amijima. The Iwasaki Bridge isn’t just a pathway. It’s a link to Osaka’s vibrant past. This bridge replaced an earlier private bridge. That bridge earned the nickname “Senitori Bridge” because it charged a toll of three sen. The original bridge, like many before it, fell victim to a devastating flood in 1885. The current Iwasaki Bridge emerged in the Showa era. Its design consciously harmonizes with the surrounding parkland. The bridge’s form is simple yet elegant. It is a gentle curve, minimizing vibrations for pedestrians. It has even received an award from the Architectural Institute of Japan. Close by, the cherry blossoms of the Mint Bureau put on a spectacular display in spring. The Tenjin Festival in summer brings boat processions and crowds of revelers. The Iwasaki Bridge offers a front-row seat to these lively traditions. It is more than just a crossing. It is a place where the rhythm of Osaka’s life unfolds.
旧守口市立下島小学校
Shimojima Elementary School’s bell echoed one last time in March 2024. This marked the end of its 49-year history. It