(Photo courtesy of Iwakuni City Tourism Association)

Near MCAS Iwakuni, Kitaikyo is a symbol of Iwakuni and one of Japan’s most famous bridges. The majestic, five-arch wooden bridge spans 233 feet across the Nishiki River. Due to the height of its arches, however, it has a total surface length of no less than 690 feet. It is 16.4 feet wide, and its arches are nearly 22 feet tall.

On and around such a picture-friendly wooden bridge, the annual Kintaikyo Festival will be held April 29.

Kintaikyo Festival (Photo courtesy of Iwakuni City Tourism Association)

Kintaikyo Festival (Photo courtesy of Iwakuni City Tourism Association)

Kintaikyo Festival (Photo courtesy of Iwakuni City Tourism Association)

Since the festival began in 1978 to preserve Iwakuni’s cultural heritage, the festival has showcased impressive reenactments of a daimyo (feudal lord’s) procession, along with matchlock gun squad demonstrations and taiko drum and traditional dance performances.

Today, the festival is counted as one of Iwakuni’s three major annual festivals, along with the Nishikigawa Water Festival in August and the Iwakuni Festival in October, and draws nearly 40,000 visitors every year, according to the event provider.

The festival kicks off with an opening ceremony at Kikko Shrine to honor the former lords of the Iwakuni domain at 9 a.m. on April 29.

Kintaikyo Festival (Photo courtesy of Iwakuni City Tourism Association)

Kintaikyo Festival (Photo courtesy of Iwakuni City Tourism Association)

Kintaikyo Festival (Photo courtesy of Iwakuni City Tourism Association)

Don’t miss the event’s highlight – the daimyo procession from 1:30 – 2:40 p.m. - where you can observe dozens of locals in traditional samurai or townspeople attire crossing the scenic bridge, taking you back in time to its feudal age.

In the festival field, booths will sell local Iwakuni foods and products.

So, mark your calendar and join the popular festival to enjoy Iwakuni’s rich culture and traditions!

The 48th Kintaikyo Festival