Gazing at the still water. What stories do you think the Nijubashi Moat could tell if it could speak? The Nijubashi Moat surrounds part of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. It is more than just a body of water. It is a mirror reflecting history.
Let’s dive into the story of the Nijubashi Moat. The Imperial Palace is not far from Tokyo Station. The palace sits where Edo Castle once stood. From 1603 to 1867, the Tokugawa shoguns ruled Japan from Edo Castle. In 1868, everything changed. The shogunate fell. The capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo.
The Imperial Palace construction finished in 1888. It faced destruction during World War Two. But it was rebuilt in the same style. From Kokyo Gaien, you can see the Nijubashi. These two bridges mark an entrance to the inner palace. The stone bridge in front is Meganebashi. People call it Eyeglass Bridge because of its shape.
The bridge behind it used to be wooden. It had two levels. This is where the name Nijubashi comes from. Nijubashi means Double Bridge. However, only the iron Seimon-tetsubashi Bridge officially carries the name Nijubashi. Some mistakenly think both bridges share the name.
The inner palace remains mostly closed. Only on January 2 and February 23 can visitors enter. They can see the Imperial Family on a balcony then. Guided tours are available at other times. These tours occur in English and Japanese. They happen daily at 10:00 and 13:30. No buildings are entered during the tour. Also, tours do not take place on Mondays, Sundays and national holidays. You can book in advance. Same-day registration is possible at the Kikyomon Gate.
Close to the inner palace are the Imperial Palace East Gardens. These gardens are open to the public all year. The Nijubashi has great cultural importance. It shows the continuity of the imperial institution. It also shows the link to the Edo period. The Nijubashi originally was built as a wooden bridge called the Nishinomaru Gejobashi. Its design created the illusion of two bridges.
The depth of the moat required a unique foundation. Logs supported the girders. Thus, it gained the name Nijubashi or double bridge. In 1888, it was rebuilt as an iron bridge. Repairs took place in 1964 giving it its current look. During this renovation, Japan used anti-rust technologies for the first time.
The Nijubashi is a symbol of Japan. Postcards and photographs often feature it. Tourists and locals admire its architecture. They also enjoy the views of the palace grounds. You can view the bridges from Koyo Gaien. This requires a ten-minute walk from Otemachi Station or Nijubashimae Station. Alternatively, join a guided tour of the Imperial Palace. This tour includes a visit to the bridges. As we stand here can you imagine the Emperors looking down at you?