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Iya Valley Kazurabashi Vine Bridge
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Iya Valley Kazurabashi Vine Bridge

landmark

Iya Valley Kazurabashi Vine Bridge

祖谷のかずら橋

4.5Est. 1.5 hrs¥Miyoshi, Shikoku
Local PickA distinctive place, off the usual route.

Read about Cultural context

Overview

A swaying vine bridge 14 meters above a turquoise gorge, one of only three remaining in Japan.

Made from mountain vines (shirakuchi kazura) and rebuilt every three years, this 45m suspension bridge crosses 14m above the Iya River. Walking across the swaying bridge with gaps between the slats wide enough to see the river below is an adrenaline rush. Legend says the bridges were built by fleeing Heike warriors who could cut them if pursued.

Local tips

Visit early morning to have the bridge almost to yourself. The bonfire-grilled river fish (iwana) at the stalls below is delicious.

Practical info

Japanese name
祖谷のかずら橋
Nearest station
Oboke Station (JR Dosan Line) + bus
Payment
Cash only
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