Nihombashi (Bridge of Japan)

Nihombashi (Bridge of Japan) Review

Why the expressway had to be routed directly over this lovely old landmark back in 1962 is one of the mysteries of Tokyo and its city planning—or lack thereof. There were protests and petitions, but they had no effect. At that time, Tokyo had only two years left to prepare for the Olympics, and the traffic congestion was out of control. So the bridge, originally built in 1603, with its graceful double arch, ornate lamps, and bronze Chinese lions and unicorns, was doomed to bear the perpetual rumble of trucks overhead—its claims overruled by concrete ramps and pillars.