Tenjin Bridge, Osaka

Tenjin Bridge in Osaka is a historically significant structure spanning the Okawa River at the eastern end of Nakanoshima Island. Originally constructed around 1594, the bridge was initially unnamed and merely referred to as "new bridge." Its association with the nearby Tenma-Tenjin Shrine eventually led to its naming as "Tenjin Bridge." By 1634, it gained prominence as one of the twelve Public Bridges of Osaka, maintained through public funds by the shogunate, underscoring its importance in the urban infrastructure.

Tenjin Bridge was historically significant as one of the "three great bridges of Naniwa," a title it shared with Tenma Bridge and Naniwa Bridge. It was a cultural icon as well, celebrated in children's songs and known for its impressive length. However, its strategic importance was highlighted during the Revolt of Oshio Heihachiro when it was destroyed by the shogunate to hinder the progress of rebel forces.

The bridge met its demise in a great flood in 1929 but was promptly replaced by a modern iron bridge in 1932, notable at the time for being the longest-span bridge in Japan. The current structure, completed in 1934, is a robust assembly of three steel arches with concrete arches at each end, stretching a total of 210.7 meters. This bridge not only serves as a critical artery in the city's transport network but also stands as a testament to Osaka's historical and cultural evolution.