Kazurabashi Bridge
162-2 Nishiiyayamamura Zentoku, Miyoshi, Japan, 778-0102
Stretching across a canyon in Japan's lush Iya Valley, the Iya Kazurabashi Bridge is the largest of three remaining suspension bridges woven from hardy mountain vines. Believed to date back around 1,000 years, the bridge invites travelers to steel their nerves and step back in time to ancient Japan.
The basics
You can walk across the bridge, which spans 148 feet (45 meters) across the emerald Iya River. While the bridge's rustic construction and sway may not inspire confidence, it is rebuilt every three years. It is anchored to sturdy cedar trees at both ends and has steel cables intertwined with the vines. The surrounding area has walking paths through the forest to explore. Guided tours of the Iya Valley, including tours of Tokushima Prefecture departing from Osaka, typically include visiting the Iya Kazurabashi Bridge.
Things to know before you go
There is a cash toll to walk across the bridge.
You may only walk across in one direction.
The bridge is illuminated in the evenings.
Outside the exit, the Kazurabashi Arcade has indoor and outdoor food vendors.
How to get there
The closest train station is JR Oboke Station, which is around 90 minutes from JR Tokushima Station on the Tokushima Line, including a change at JR Awa Ikeda Station to the Dosan Line Nanpu Limited Express. From Oboke Station, take a Shikoku Kotsu Bus (to Kubo) on the Oboke/Iya route for around 25 minutes; get off at Kazurabashi bus stop, and walk for five minutes. If you’re driving, you’ll find paid parking by the entrance.
When to get there
The bridge is open to visitors every day, from sunrise until sunset, all year round. However, it can get crowded on weekends, particularly during the warmer months, particularly during Golden Week (late April to early March), around the Obon Holiday (mid-August), and on national holidays in the fall.
Double Vine Bridges
If the Iya Kazurabashi Bridge is too crowded for your liking, head for the Double Vine Bridges, the other two remaining vine bridges, tucked away in the deepest part of the Iya Valley. Shrouded by dense forest, these bridges offer a more peaceful atmosphere.
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