Iya Kazurabashi (祖谷かずら橋), the largest and most popular of the remaining bridges, stretches 45 meters across the Iya River at the center of the valley, and gives visitors an unsettling view of the water 14 meters below the open slats of the span.

The western part of the valley (Nishi-Iya) is a favorable tourist spot due to its historic vine bridge (kazurabashi) and hot spring baths at the large hotels. Most tourists do not go deeper mainly due to the one lane road creating restrictions for most tour buses.

The Iya Valley (祖谷渓, Iyakei) is a remote, mountainous valley in western Tokushima Prefecture. Located in the heart of Shikoku Island , the secluded valley is characterized by steep mountain slopes and deep rocky gorges which were traditionally crossed by vine bridges.

Recognized as one of three kinds of unusual bridges in Japan, they are designated as an important folkloric property. Take the Shikoku Kotsu Bus "Kazurabashi-iki (for Kazurabashi)" at JR Oboke Sta. (approx. 20 mins). Get off at the bus stop "Kazurabashi" then walk for 5 minutes.

The largest and most accessible bridge is the Iya Kazurabashi, located in the valley's west. At 45 meters long, two meters wide and suspended 14 meters above the water, crossing this bridge is not for anyone with a fear of heights.

Info for the Iya-no-Kazurabashi Vine Bridge in the Iya Valley. Detailed description, operating times, history, access information, and a map points nearby.

Feb 20, 2025 · Kazurabashi, the iconic vine bridge in Iya Valley, Tokushima, is one of Japan’s three most famous vine bridges. Spanning 45 meters across the Iya River, this historical suspension bridge offers a thrilling yet scenic crossing experience.

Jul 12, 2012 · To get across the Iya river that splits the rough valley terrain, these bandits, warriors, and locals created a very special, if unsteady, type of bridge — a vine bridge.

The lower half of the Iya Valley is home to the beautiful Iyakei Gorge, as well as a variety of hotspring spas, and the amazing Kazurabashi vine bridge. The deeper part of the Iya Valley is known for its isolated hillside hamlets, abundant nature, …

13 suspension bridges made of mountain vines (kazurabashi) used to exist in the Iya Valley and provided a vital means of getting people and goods across the river in the past. Two of the surviving bridges still stand side by side deep in the inner valley.