Iya Valley Oboke and Kazurabashi Bridge Course

Deep in the mountains of Shikoku, this route explores the hidden corners of western Awa, where clear streams meet towering cliffs. Enjoy the thrill of the suspension bridge and the beauty of the gorge to the full on this mountain route worth visiting once in a lifetime. Cliffs carved over two hundred million years and a simple bridge woven from mountain vines draw travelers into another world.

Course Route

9:00 Start at the Oboke Gorge sightseeing boat Board the cruise and view the marble cliffs and blue current from the water. Skimming just above the surface as the boatman shares his tales, it makes a thrilling ride.

10:30 Rest at the Yokai House At the roadside station, learn the local goblin legends and gather stories for the trip. Folk tales of the goblins of Iya and Yamashiro are introduced through models and displays.

12:00 Lunch with Iya soba Enjoy the firm handmade Iya soba and wild mountain vegetables, tastes unique to the highland villages. The thick country soba, made with little binder, is rich in the buckwheat own fragrance.

13:30 Cross the Kazurabashi Bridge Cross the suspension bridge woven from mountain vines slowly, watching the valley beneath your feet. The bridge sways with each step, and the clear stream glimpsed through the gaps in the planks makes for a thrilling crossing.

14:30 See Biwa Falls Cool off at the waterfall that tumbles down beside the bridge. Water falling down the rock face keeps the air cool even in summer.

16:00 To the Iya Valley statue Gaze at the figure standing on the cliff edge and the gorge below to close with a hidden scenic wonder. Set atop a cliff 200 meters above the valley floor, the statue is a signature sight of the Iya gorge.

Highlights

The vine bridge is one of Japan three most unusual bridges, and the swaying planks are a real thrill. About 45 meters long and some 14 meters above the water, it is rebuilt every three years. The Oboke Gorge is a V shaped valley carved over two hundred million years, changing its face with every season, with the fresh green of spring and the autumn leaves especially fine.

Access and Tips

A car is convenient since mountain roads continue throughout. The vine bridge is one way, so expect a wait during busy times. Some sections are narrow and winding, so allow plenty of time when driving.

A Quick Tip

The bridge has wide gaps between the planks and a real sense of height. Keep your hands free by carrying bags on your body as you cross. At times of year the bridge is lit up at night, offering a dreamlike mood different from the day.

Practical Travel Notes

• Iya no Kazurabashi vine bridge: the crossing toll is 550 yen for adults and 350 yen for elementary students (preschoolers free). The bridge can be crossed year round as a rule. For safety it is rebuilt about every three years, during which crossing may be briefly suspended.
• The Oboke Gorge sightseeing boat charges a fare and offers a ride of about 30 minutes round trip. It may be suspended in high water or bad weather, so it is wise to check the day operating status.
• The kazurabashi involves slopes and stone steps, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Take care not to drop phones or small items while on the bridge.
• By public transport, use a bus or taxi from JR Oboke Station. Services are limited, so a car is convenient. Watch for icy roads in winter.
• Fees, hours, and operating status can change, so please check each facility official information before you go.

Practical Information for Your Visit

• Iya no Kazurabashi vine bridge (crossing hours): 8:00-18:00 from April to June, 7:30-18:30 in July and August, and 8:00-17:00 from September to March. Open all year round (it may close temporarily if a heavy rain warning is issued or in similar circumstances)
• Iya no Kazurabashi vine bridge (illumination): Every day from 19:00 to 21:30. You cannot cross the bridge during the illumination
• Iya no Kazurabashi vine bridge (parking): Ordinary car 500 yen, motorcycle 210 yen, medium-sized bus 1,050 yen, large bus 1,570 yen
• Oboke Gorge sightseeing boats: Operating 9:00-17:00 (last departure 16:30), all year round (cancelled in strong winds, high water and similar conditions). The fare is 1,500 yen for adults and 750 yen for children (age 3 to elementary school age)
• Roadside Station Oboke (Yokai Yashiki monster house and Stone Museum): Last entry 16:30. Admission is 800 yen for adults and 350 yen for elementary and junior high school students, free of charge for preschool children, and covers both the Yokai Yashiki and the Stone Museum as a set. The toilets and observation deck on the car park side are available 24 hours, while the toilets inside the building are open 9:00-17:00
• Enquiries: 0883-76-0877 (Miyoshi City Tourist Information Office) / 0883-84-1211 (Oboke Gorge sightseeing boats) / 0883-84-1489 (Roadside Station Oboke Yokai Yashiki)
• Official information: Oboke Iya Navi (Miyoshi City official tourism site) / Awa Navi (Tokushima Prefecture tourism information site) / Nishi-Awa: Mt. Tsurugi and Yoshino River Tourism Region official website / Roadside Station Oboke Yokai Yashiki official website

* The above is a guide based on information published by each facility and local government. Hours and fees are subject to change, so please check the official information before you set out.