Crossing the Legendary Horai Bridge and Relaxing at 897.4 Tea House in Shimada

Introduction

In Shimada City, Shizuoka Prefecture, you’ll find the Horai Bridge, a wooden pedestrian bridge that stretches gracefully across the Ōi River. With a length of 897.4 meters, it is recognized in the Guinness World Records as the longest wooden pedestrian bridge in the world. This remarkable landmark is not only an engineering feat but also a cultural symbol of the region.

Walking Across History

The bridge was originally built in 1879, shortly after the Meiji Restoration. The Ōi River had long been famous as a difficult barrier for travelers along the Tōkaidō Road, where no bridges or ferries were allowed during the Edo period for military reasons. Crossing the Horai Bridge today allows visitors to quite literally walk through history, while enjoying panoramic views of the river and surrounding countryside.

897.4 Tea House – A Gateway to Local Flavor

At the foot of the bridge sits the 897.4 Tea House (pronounced yakunashi chaya). Its name cleverly comes from the length of the bridge: 897.4 meters. This facility welcomes travelers with rest areas, a souvenir shop, and—of course—locally produced Shimada tea. It’s an ideal spot to pause after walking the bridge and to experience the region’s hospitality.

Why Visit?

Horai Bridge and the 897.4 Tea House together form one of Shimada’s most iconic experiences. The bridge invites you to step into history, while the tea house offers modern comfort rooted in tradition. For anyone traveling along the Tōkaidō region or exploring Shimada’s tea culture, this is a destination not to be missed.

Visitor Information

• Horai Bridge Length: 897.4 meters (Guinness World Record)

• Location: Horai Bridge & 897.4 Tea House, Shimada City, Shizuoka Prefecture

• Access: About 20 minutes on foot from Shimada Station (JR Tōkaidō Line)

• Admission (Horai Bridge): Adults ¥100 / Children ¥10

• Official Info:

  • Horai Bridge – Shimada City

  • 897.4 Tea House – Shimada City