Iya Vine Bridge Travel Guide 2026: Thrills, Views, and Legends in Tokushima's Remote Valley

Discover the Thrills and Scenic Beauty of the Iya Vine Bridge

Deep in the mountains of Tokushima Prefecture hangs a suspension bridge known as the Iya Vine Bridge.

This hidden gem offers an extraordinary experience: a bridge woven from plant vines with an almost unbelievable appearance, the thrill of crossing it, and the magnificent scenery that surrounds it.

This article provides comprehensive information about the highlights and access methods you need to visit the Iya Vine Bridge.

Iya Vine Bridge

The Iya Vine Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Iya Valley in Miyoshi City, Tokushima Prefecture. Along with Kintai Bridge in Yamaguchi Prefecture and Saruhashi Bridge in Yamanashi Prefecture, it is counted among Japan’s Three Unique Bridges. Many visitors come seeking its distinctive appearance and thrilling experience.

A Unique Structure in Perfect Harmony with Nature: The Vine Bridge and Iya Valley Scenery

The beauty of the vine bridge lies first in its structure itself. Woven from plant vines (hardy kiwi), the bridge projects a presence that blends into the surrounding nature despite being man-made, evoking a sense of tranquility whether you look up or down. Up close, its presence is overwhelming—a charm that goes beyond being photogenic.

Moreover, the Iya Valley where the bridge hangs creates its own rich natural beauty. The lush green valley, the vine bridge spanning it, and the emerald-green Iya River flowing below—this contrast creates an exceptionally beautiful landscape that leaves a strong visual impression.

Watch Your Step: An Extreme Thrill and Scenic Experience

The vine bridge features a unique structure underfoot unlike any other suspension bridge.

Wooden planks are arranged at regular intervals, and the Iya River is visible through the gaps below. The space between planks feels like more than 15cm, allowing you to clearly see the river below. With each step, you feel the thrill rising from the soles of your feet.

Adults won’t fall through, but smartphones and belongings could easily drop, so cross with utmost care. The bridge stands about 14 meters above the water. With its flexibility and sway, the thrill increases with every step. When the wind blows, the entire bridge sways slightly, and you naturally put more force into each step forward.

However, the sensation of being surrounded by the valley and river flowing all around you—being in the midst of it—is an on-site experience that photos and videos simply cannot convey. The bridge is 45 meters long and 2 meters wide. While paying careful attention to safety, take in this spectacular view with all your senses.

The bridge itself is reinforced with safety wires and rebuilt every three years, so you can cross with peace of mind.

Your Reward After Crossing: Biwa Falls and the Healing Waters of the Iya River

After crossing the vine bridge, you’ll find Biwa Falls. With a drop of about 50 meters, the sight of water falling like thin threads quietly calms the viewer’s heart.

Legend has it that long ago, Heike clan refugees who had fled to this area would play the biwa (Japanese lute) at these falls, comforting each other in their exile from the capital Kyoto. The name of the falls, which also refers to the musical instrument, quietly tells of those times.

It’s just a 1-2 minute walk to the falls. A little further, there’s a route down to the riverbed. Both the falls and the river, with their elegant flowing waters, release the tension from the thrilling vine bridge experience, creating a peaceful healing spot.

This area is known as a hidden gem where many visitors come seeking coolness in summer, and autumn leaves add color in fall.

Local Food and Souvenirs: Kazurabashi Yume Butai

After experiencing the thrill of the vine bridge and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Iya Valley, we recommend taking a break at ”Kazurabashi Yume Butai,” where restaurants and a souvenir shop operate near the bridge.

At the dining areas, you can enjoy simple local flavors like Iya soba noodles and soba rice porridge. The charcoal-grilled salted sweetfish is fragrant and tastes even better when eaten outdoors.

Kazurabashi Yume Butai also houses a large souvenir shop, perfect for purchasing gifts. As an indoor facility, it’s also useful as a rest stop on rainy days.

Restaurants and Cafes Within Walking Distance of the Vine Bridge

• Kazurabashi Yume Butai
• Yamazato
• Takimi Shokudo
• Ikoi Shokudo
• Mori no Kumasan

The Bridge Is One-Way Only: Make the Most of Your Precious Time

Crossing the vine bridge requires a fee.

Note that evening illumination takes place nightly from 19:00 to 21:30, creating a fantastic atmosphere. However, you cannot cross the bridge during the illumination.

Also, you can only cross the bridge one way. Round trips are not allowed, so you only get one chance. Once you cross to the other side, you cannot return via the bridge.

This is a precious one-time opportunity. Experience the thrill while fully absorbing the natural sensations that can only be felt on the bridge.

How to Get to the Iya Vine Bridge

The Iya Vine Bridge is located deep in the mountains, and most visitors access it by private car or rental car, though public transportation is also available.

Here we introduce bus access, the main public transportation option, and car access from Kochi City.

Public Transportation Access

When using public transportation, take the bus from JR Awa - Ikeda Station in Miyoshi City, Tokushima Prefecture.

The above information is current as of January 2026. Services may be suspended or changed, so please check the official websites of Shikoku Kotsu or the Miyoshi City Tourist Information Center.

• Route Bus | Shikoku Kotsu Co., Ltd.
• Iya Vine Bridge | Oboke Iya Navi (Miyoshi City Official Tourism Site)

Driving from Kochi City

From Kochi City to the Iya Vine Bridge takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car (approximately 80km). The recommended route is as follows:

• Kochi City → Kochi Expressway Otoyama IC → via National Route 32 → Near Oboke Station (cross Oboke Bridge) → Prefectural Route 45 → Iya Vine Bridge

Be careful driving as there are many mountain roads. I drove this route early in the morning, and after leaving the expressway, the only restroom stop was Michi-no-Eki Nishiya, so it’s best to use facilities before departing. (During daytime, you can find public facilities or shops.)

Sightseeing Bus Tours Are Also Recommended: Explore Japan’s Three Great Secluded Regions in One Day

You can also visit the Iya Vine Bridge on the sightseeing bus operated by Shikoku Kotsu.

Oboke - Iya Course: Exploring Japan's Three Great Secluded Regions

This one-day bus tour visits not only the Iya Vine Bridge but also Oboke and Iya sightseeing spots, including a river cruise through Oboke Gorge, a visit to the Yokai Monster Museum, and lunch featuring local cuisine. (Departure is from JR Awa-Ikeda Station, same as the regular bus.)

Since most destinations are only accessible by car, if you’re mainly using public transportation, joining this sightseeing bus tour and enjoying a day in Tokushima’s secluded regions is highly recommended. It’s a very convenient option for those who are anxious about driving mountain roads or want to sightsee efficiently.

The Legend of the Iya Vine Bridge: A Bridge Built by Heike Refugees for Escape

The Iya Vine Bridge has legends dating back to the wars of the late Heian period.

In the 12th century, the Heike clan, defeated in the Genpei War (1180-1185), fled the capital and reportedly took refuge in the Iya region deep in the mountains of Shikoku.

Wary of pursuit, they are said to have woven the bridge from plant vines so it could be cut down if needed.

Whether this story is true is uncertain, but knowing the bridge’s structure and the terrain of this area, it’s a compelling legend that makes you want to imagine its possibility.

The present-day vine bridge still carries the traces of this history.

A Mystical Scene and Extraordinary Experience: Visit the Iya Vine Bridge for Spectacular Views and Legends

The Iya Vine Bridge is a spot where you can enjoy diverse experiences in one place: the rarity of the suspension bridge itself, the thrill underfoot, the natural scenery, historical legends, and even local food culture.

Access and surrounding facilities are well-developed, accommodating various travel styles including public transportation, sightseeing buses, and private or rental cars.

With an appearance worthy of its title as one of Japan’s Three Unique Bridges, yet possessing a beauty that harmonizes with nature—when you see it in person, you’ll understand why the word “mystical” fits perfectly.

Come experience the extraordinary in one of Japan’s Three Great Secluded Regions.

Please visit the Iya Vine Bridge.