Ryogoku Bridge

• Built: 1661
• Japanese: 両国橋 (ryougoku bashi)

Ryôgoku Bridge is a notable bridge over the Sumida River in eastern central Tokyo. First completed in 1661, it takes its name from the fact that it links two provinces (ryô goku), namely, Musashi and Shimousa provinces.

The Ryôgoku neighborhood has long been home to a number of sumo stables and arenas, and is today also home to the Kokugikan National Sumo Arena, the Japan Sword Museum, and the Sumida Hokusai Museum.

The section of river near the bridge have for centuries been the site of the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival.

Painting of Ryôgoku Bridge by Kanô Kyûei, c. 1750s-70s. British Museum.