Saruhashi Bridge is a historic wooden bridge spanning the deep and rugged gorge of the Katsura River in Otsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture. It is recognized as one of Japan’s “Three Remarkable Bridges,” together with Kintai Bridge in Iwakuni (Yamaguchi Prefecture) and Aimoto Bridge in Kurobe (Toyama Prefecture). Combining an unusual structure with dramatic natural scenery, Saruhashi has long been admired as one of the most scenic highlights along the historic Koshu Kaido. Measuring approximately 30.9 meters in length and 3.3 meters in width, and standing about 31 meters above the river, the bridge’s most distinctive feature is its pierless design. Instead of pillars rising from the valley floor, Saruhashi is supported by four tiers of cantilevered wooden brackets (hanegi) projecting from the sheer rock faces on both sides of the gorge—an ingenious solution to crossing a steep valley where conventional bridge construction was impossible. The exact origin of this structure remains unclear, but a well-known legend traces it back to around the 7th century, when the design was inspired by the sight of monkeys linking together to cross the ravine, giving rise to the bridge’s name that translates as “monkey bridge.” The present Saruhashi was faithfully reconstructed in 1984 based on historical records from 1851. Praised for its harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape, it was designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty in 1932 and also inspired artists such as Utagawa (Ando) Hiroshige, who depicted it in his ukiyo-e print Koyo Saruhashi no Zu. Today, Saruhashi remains a popular sightseeing spot where visitors can experience traditional Japanese craftsmanship set against striking seasonal scenery.