Iya Valley Kazurabashi

This 45-meter vine bridge hangs 14 meters above the Iya River and is rebuilt every three years from shirokuchi kazura mountain vines. Local legend connects it to the Heike clan, who fled to this remote valley after losing the Gempei War in 1185 and built vine bridges that could be cut if enemies approached. At one time 13 such bridges spanned the valley. Crossing the swaying structure with its gap-planked deck gives a direct view of the rushing water below. The surrounding Iya Valley is known for its steep gorges, isolated hamlets, and local specialties like Iya soba and deko mawashi skewers.