Shinko Bridge, Nikko, Tochigi Japan

Ithaca - Journey

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Shinkyo bridge or "sacred bridge" which crosses the Daiya-gawa river belongs to Futarasan Jinja Shrine. It is considered one of the few most beautiful bridges in Japan and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

This bridge was rebuilt in 1904 according to the original 1636 design; which was washed away by flood in 1902. Autumn is the best time to visit but expect crowd.

There is certain timelessness to this place. The sense that countless souls must have travelled across the bridge & paths unhurried. Each setting out for their 'Ithaca'. Hoping that it is long, adventurous and enriching. Yet at the end of the day, it is the journey that matters. 

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But do not hurry the journey at all.

Better if it lasts for years,

so you are old by the time you reach the island,

wealthy with all you have gained on the way,

not expecting Ithaca to make you rich.

Ithaca gave you the marvellous journey.

Without her, you would not have set out.

She has nothing left to give you now.

And if you find her poor, Ithaca won't have fooled you.

Wise as you will have become, so full of experience, 

you will have understood by then what these Ithacas mean.

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Ithaca (extract), 1911

Constantine Cavafy

Translated by

Edmund Keeley & Phillip Sherrard