How to Play Hashi (Bridges): Rules, Strategy & Free Puzzles
Hashi (also called Bridges or Hashiwokakero) is a connection puzzle. Each numbered circle is an island, and the number tells you how many bridges must connect to it. You draw horizontal and vertical bridges so every island reaches its number and all islands join into one connected network.
- Skill: Spatial reasoning & connection logic
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- Difficulty: Intermediate
How to play Hashi
- Match each island's number. The number on an island equals the total number of bridges touching it.
- Bridges run straight. Bridges are horizontal or vertical only — never diagonal — and connect two islands in a straight line.
- At most two bridges per pair. You may draw one or two bridges between the same pair of islands, but never three.
- Bridges never cross. A bridge cannot cross another bridge or pass through an island.
- Connect everything. When finished, every island must be reachable from every other — the bridges form one single connected network.
Hashi strategy & tips
- An island showing the maximum (e.g. 8 in the centre, 6 on an edge, 4 in a corner) must take two bridges in every available direction.
- Start from islands with only one possible neighbour — those bridges are forced.
- Watch for "would-be islands" that get cut off; the connectivity rule often forces a final bridge.
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Hashi FAQ
What is Hashiwokakero?
Hashiwokakero is the original Japanese name for Hashi, also known in English as Bridges — the same island-connecting logic puzzle.
Can two bridges go between the same islands?
Yes, up to two parallel bridges may connect the same pair of islands, but never three.
Do bridges have to connect every island?
Yes. A correct solution links all islands into one network where every island can be reached from any other.
Related puzzles
Reference: Hashi on Wikipedia