Kishin

The kirin are the statues flanking the iron lampposts of Nihonbashi Bridge, where their imposing presence contributes to the bridge’s majestic appearance. Their brief appearance anchors the passing boat tour at one of the investigation’s recognizable landmarks.

Appearance and Setting

Seen from the boat, the kirin stand beside the bridge’s iron lampposts. Together, statues and lamps give Nihonbashi Bridge a sense of grandeur that distinguishes this point along the route.

Place in the Narrative

The sight comes as Shuhei Matsumiya and Kyoichiro Kaga are considering whether a festival might have a direct connection to the bridge. The yukata festival, they conclude, covers too broad an area to establish such a link. The kirin remain a vivid feature of the landmark itself, rather than evidence of a connection to the investigation.

The boat then proceeds beneath Edobashi Bridge, Yoroibashi Bridge, Kayababashi Bridge, Minatobashi Bridge, and Toyomibashi Bridge before reaching the Sumida River. It turns back toward the mouth of the Kanda River, follows a route different from the usual trip toward Tokyo Skytree, and returns to Asakusabashi Bridge. Within this chain of bridges, the kirin make Nihonbashi a memorable visual point on the journey.