Shirakawa-go "Deai Bridge" - The charm of the beautiful suspension bridge leading to the World Heritage Site

When visiting the Gassho-style village of Shirakawa-go, the first place many tourists cross is Deai Bridge. This beautiful suspension bridge over the Shogawa River is the gateway to Shirakawa-go, connecting the village to the parking lot. From the bridge, you can see a magnificent view of the clear stream and mountains, and it is a spot that instantly raises your expectations for this World Heritage site.

Where is the famous bridge in Shirakawa-go? Basic information about "Deai Bridge"

Deai Bridge, often searched for as "Shirakawa-go Bridge," is a 107-meter-long pedestrian-only suspension bridge. It connects the public parking lot "Mura-ei Seseragi Park Parking Lot" with the Gassho-style village, and is a great starting point for tourists to get excited.

This bridge won the top prize at the 2003 Japan Society of Civil Engineers Design Awards, and its design, which blends in with the landscape, has been highly praised.

The road to a World Heritage Site | Experience crossing Deai Bridge and enjoy the spectacular views

Deai Bridge spans the wide Sho River, and once you cross the bridge you'll arrive at the World Heritage Site, a Gassho-style village. From the bridge you can enjoy seasonal scenery, and it's a popular viewing spot with a panoramic view of fresh greenery in spring, autumn leaves in autumn, and snowy scenery in winter.

The bridge may sway slightly as you walk across it, but that is also part of the thrill that only a suspension bridge can offer. There are also spots on both ends of the bridge that are perfect for taking commemorative photos, and many tourists can be seen taking photos here. Be sure to capture a memorable photo of your visit to Shirakawa-go here.

Access from the parking lot to the suspension bridge | The entrance to Shirakawa-go starts here

The closest parking lot to Deai Bridge is the Village Seseragi Park Parking Lot. It is a large parking lot that can accommodate both regular cars and large buses, and serves as a base for sightseeing in Shirakawa-go. It is only a 2-3 minute walk from the parking lot to the bridge, and you can access the center of the Gassho-style village by simply crossing the bridge.

Must-see for photography lovers! The best photo spots and timings for Deai Bridge

Deai Bridge is a great photo spot where you can take pictures of the scenery that harmonizes with the nature of the four seasons. In the mornings and evenings in particular, the bridge is bathed in a soft light, creating a fantastical atmosphere.

The best time to take photos is early in the morning when there are fewer tourists. There are fewer people crossing the bridge, giving you more freedom in composition. The contrast with the snowy winter scenery and autumn leaves is also beautiful, making this the perfect place to take photos that will look great on social media.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) | Simple questions about Deai Bridge

• Q: Can I cross the bridge at night?
  A: It is possible to pass through, but as there are few streetlights, we recommend using it during daylight hours.
• Q: Is the shaking severe?
  A: It may shake a little when multiple people cross at the same time, but it is not a safety issue.
• Q: Can I access the facility with a wheelchair or stroller?
  A: The road is paved, but there is some incline and shaking, so caution is required.

Shirakawa-go sightseeing starts at Deai Bridge

Deai Bridge, the entrance to the Gassho-style village of Shirakawa-go, is not just a suspension bridge, but a famous spot that will heighten your expectations for your trip. It has many attractions, including a beautiful exterior that has won a design award, scenery that blends in with the natural scenery of the river and mountains, and easy access.

If it's your first time visiting Shirakawa-go, be sure to first cross this bridge and make your way into the World Heritage village.