# Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridges

> A pair of vine bridges over the Iya River in the remote Oku-Iya area, comprising a longer 'male' bridge and a shorter 'female' bridge, plus a hand-pulled cart crossing.

- Prefecture: 徳島県
- Type: Attraction
- Address: 徳島県三好市
- Admission: 550 yen

The Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridges span the Iya River in the remote Higashi-Iya area of Miyoshi, well upstream of the better-known Iya Kazurabashi. The site has two bridges woven from mountain vines: a longer one called the male bridge and a shorter one called the female bridge, which give the pair its name. Local tradition holds that Heike warriors built such bridges here centuries ago so they could be cut down quickly if pursuers approached. Beside the bridges is a yaen, a small open cart that visitors pull across the river by rope. The bridges are open from April to November and closed through the winter months, and admission is charged. The area is deep in the mountains and is most practically reached by car.

## FAQ

### How is the Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridges site different from the main Iya Kazurabashi?

It lies much farther up the Iya Valley and has two bridges, a male and a female bridge, whereas the main Iya Kazurabashi is a single, more accessible bridge.

### When can I visit the Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridges?

They are open from April to November and closed in winter from December through March, so plan a visit in the warmer months.

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Source: Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridges — Japan Voyage