Iya Kazurabashi

Attraction Hikyo

Prefecture

Tokushima

Type

Attraction · Hikyo

N/A

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Restaurant

Plan a trip with Iya Kazurabashi

About This Destination

A 45-meter vine bridge swaying above a turquoise river in one of Japan's three great secluded regions.

The Iya Kazurabashi is a 45-meter vine suspension bridge spanning the Iya River in one of Japan's three great secluded regions. Suspended 14 meters above the turquoise water, the bridge is made from hardy kiwi vines (shirakuchikazura) and weighs approximately 5.5 tons. It is rewoven every three years using traditional techniques. Walking across the swaying bridge with gaps between the slats revealing the river below is a thrilling experience. The bridge is designated a National Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property. The surrounding Iya Valley features dramatic gorge scenery, the famous Manneken Pis-like statue (peeing boy) on a cliff edge, and several secluded onsen. At night the bridge is illuminated from 7 to 9:30 PM. Access is from JR Oboke Station by bus in about 25 minutes.

Location

Prefecture: Tokushima

Address: Miyoshi, Tokushima, Japan

Nearest Station: Oboke Station

Opening hours: Mon–Sun 08:00–17:00

Closed: Open every day of the year, also in rain. May close temporarily during heavy rain warnings.

Hours note: The hours shown are for September to March. April to June 8:00 to 18:00; July and August 7:30 to 18:30. The bridge entrance closes at the closing time.

Hours and fees checked against the official site on 9 October 2026.

Best time to visit: Autumn for foliage over the vine bridge deep in the Iya Valley; lush green in summer

🍁 Autumn leaves: Early November – mid November in a typical year. Lit up in the evenings during the season. See autumn leaves on the map

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: Small restaurants near the bridge serve local river fish (iwana, ayu), soba noodles, and grilled tofu on a stick (dekomawashi).

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Iya Kazurabashi?

From JR Oboke Station, take a bus about 20–25 minutes into the Iya Valley. Driving is the most flexible way to explore this remote gorge country.

What is the Kazurabashi vine bridge?

A 45 m suspension bridge woven from mountain vines (reinforced with hidden steel cables) and rebuilt every three years. Crossing the slatted deck 14 m above the river is a thrill.