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Historic bridge · Miyoshi, Tokushima
Iya Vine Bridge
A suspension bridge of woven vines about 45 meters long, 14 meters above the Iya River in Nishi-Iya; it is rebuilt every three years and is crossed by stepping on spaced wooden planks.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Iya Vine Bridge in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
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Discover
About Iya Vine Bridge
The Iya vine bridge, Iya no Kazurabashi, spans the Iya River in Nishi-Iya, in the lower part of the valley. It is about 45 meters long, 2 meters wide, and roughly 14 meters above the water. The sides and deck are made from braided vines of a mountain climbing plant, with wooden planks attached and gaps between them through which you can see the river below.
The origin of the vine bridges is told in two ways. One legend says survivors of the Taira clan, who took refuge in the valley after 1185, made vine bridges that could be cut quickly if enemies approached. Another version credits the monk Kukai with teaching the technique to locals. In practice, they were how people crossed the region’s deep rivers before modern bridges.
The bridge is rebuilt every three years by residents who maintain the technique. Today, steel cables are hidden within the braiding for safety. During the replacement months, usually in winter, the bridge is closed for a few weeks. Crossing is done one way at a time, holding the sides, and the bridge sways slightly with each step.
On the far side, a short trail leads to the Biwa waterfall, about 50 meters high, on a rock cliff. Near the entrance there are stalls selling grilled river fish on skewers and dekomawashi, and a parallel concrete bridge from which you can photograph the vine bridge.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 to 45 minutes, including the crossing and the Biwa waterfall.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, outside tour-bus times. In autumn, from late October to mid-November, the slopes often turn color. The bridge closes for a few weeks during the replacement every three years, and also in bad weather; check ahead.
How to get there
About 30 km from Awa-Ikeda and about 20 km from Oboke. Local buses from Awa-Ikeda and Oboke stop near the bridge but run infrequently. By car, there are paid parking lots at the entrance.
Tip
Cross facing forward, holding the sides, and wear closed-toe shoes: the planks are spaced. Photograph the whole bridge from the neighboring concrete bridge.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Iya Vine Bridge
Is the Iya vine bridge safe?
The bridge has steel cables hidden within the woven vines and is rebuilt every three years. The crossing sways and the planks are spaced; go slowly and hold onto the sides.
How big is the vine bridge?
About 45 meters long, 2 meters wide, and 14 meters above the river.
Is the vine bridge closed at any time?
It closes for a few weeks when the vines are replaced every three years, usually in winter, and on days of bad weather. Check before you go.
How do I get to the vine bridge without a car?
By local bus from Awa-Ikeda or Oboke, with few departures per day, or by taxi from Oboke in about 25 minutes.
Beyond the guide
