この端、渡るべからず (Do not cross this bridge.)

江名子川にかかる縄手橋はただいま修理工事準備中のようです。

安全のため、手すりには寄りかからずお渡り下さいませ。

Ikkyu Sojun (一休宗純) is known as a Japanese Zen monk, celebrated for his wit and humor. His stories and anecdotes continue to be loved by many people today. The episode of "Kono Hashi Wataru Bekarazu" (このはし渡るべからず) is a demonstration of his wisdom and insight.

One day, Ikkyu approaches a bridge over a river. At the beginning of the bridge, a sign is posted with the words “Kono Hashi Wataru Bekarazu,” which translates to "Do not cross this bridge." Typically, this message is understood as a prohibition against crossing the bridge, but Ikkyu adopts his own interpretation.

Utilizing a play on words in Japanese, he finds a way to comply with the directive. In Japanese, "hashi" (はし) can mean both “bridge” and “edge.” Ikkyu crosses the “edge” of the bridge, thus not traversing the bridge itself, while still technically crossing the bridge.

This story highlights the play on words, the importance of interpretation, and showcases Ikkyu’s unique thinking and sharp insight.

＊Currently, the Nawate Bridge over the Enako River is under railing repair. Contrary to the aforementioned episode, please make sure not to cross at the edge of this bridge.