One of Japan’s three unusual bridges
This striking suspension bridge is known for its unusual construction and local legends.
Iya Kazura Bridge
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What kind of place is Iya Kazurabashi Bridge?
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This iconic Iya Valley landmark combines a remote mountain atmosphere with a touch of thrill.
Spanning the Iya Valley, a gorge associated with legends of the Heike clan, this suspension bridge is designated an Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. Gaps in the floor reveal the valley below, and the bridge sways gently as you cross. It offers a memorable mix of scenery and history, but take care if you feel unsure on your feet.
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Top 3 Highlights
A thrilling view into the valley
Gaps in the bridge floor and its gentle sway make even a short crossing memorable.
Beautiful scenery in every season
The surrounding gorge changes with the seasons and makes a rewarding setting for photos.
Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip.
- Take extra care on the bridge after rain or when it is busy.
- A short walk to a nearby waterfall can add to your visit.
Suggested Route
After crossing Iya Kazurabashi Bridge, take a short walk around the gorge and nearby waterfalls to enjoy more of the area’s distinctive scenery.
The Kazurabashi Bridge in Iya is a stunning tourist spot that harbors the tragic tale of the Heike clan, standing in the hidden region of Iya. This suspension bridge is made of shiraluchikazura, weighs approximately 6 tons, is 45 meters long, 2 meters wide, and hangs 14 meters above the water surface. Once used as the only means of transport in the deep mountain valley area, it now captivates visitors as a popular sightseeing attraction.
The Iya region is said to be where the Heike clan, led by Taira no Kiyomori and Emperor Antoku, settled after their defeat in the Battle of Yashima. The area has preserved the lifestyles and customs from the Middle Ages. The Kazurabashi Bridge spans the Iya River and has been designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset by the national government.
This bridge is woven from shiraluchikazura, meticulously gathered from cold mountainous areas, offering a thrilling experience to those who cross it. The bridge is also known as one of Japan's Three Unique Bridges, with various legends surrounding its origin, including tales that it was built by Heike survivors trying to escape or by Kobo Daishi for villagers in distress.
Reflected in the clear waters of the Iya River and supported by ancient trees, the bridge creates a beautiful landscape in harmony with the natural surroundings of Iya. It offers enchanting beauty through the changing seasons, with wisteria in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves, and winter snow scenes, making it worth visiting at any time of year. The Kazurabashi Bridge in Iya beautifully fuses Japan's rich history with natural beauty, continuing to charm many tourists.
The Iya region is said to be where the Heike clan, led by Taira no Kiyomori and Emperor Antoku, settled after their defeat in the Battle of Yashima. The area has preserved the lifestyles and customs from the Middle Ages. The Kazurabashi Bridge spans the Iya River and has been designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset by the national government.
This bridge is woven from shiraluchikazura, meticulously gathered from cold mountainous areas, offering a thrilling experience to those who cross it. The bridge is also known as one of Japan's Three Unique Bridges, with various legends surrounding its origin, including tales that it was built by Heike survivors trying to escape or by Kobo Daishi for villagers in distress.
Reflected in the clear waters of the Iya River and supported by ancient trees, the bridge creates a beautiful landscape in harmony with the natural surroundings of Iya. It offers enchanting beauty through the changing seasons, with wisteria in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves, and winter snow scenes, making it worth visiting at any time of year. The Kazurabashi Bridge in Iya beautifully fuses Japan's rich history with natural beauty, continuing to charm many tourists.
Iya Kazura Bridge Movies
Basic Information
- Spot Name
- Iya Kazura Bridge
- Location
- 〒778-0102 162-2, Zentoku, Nishi-Iya, Miyoshi City
- Access
- <By Car> Ikawa/Ikeda IC → Route 32 (toward Kochi) → Prefectural Road 45 → Prefectural Road 32 → City Road → Kazurabashi Dream Stage → 5-minute walk (Total time approx. 1 hour)
<By Bus> JR Oboke Station → Shikoku Kotsu Bus "Kazurabashi Line" or "Kubo Line" → Get off at "Kazurabashi" or "Kazurabashi Dream Stage" bus stop → 5-minute walk - Parking
- Large buses: 14 units
Passenger cars: 300 units - Business Hours
- April to June: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
July to August: 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM
September to March: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM - Regular Holiday
- Open year-round. Operating in rainy weather; however, there may be temporary closures in case of heavy rain warnings.
- Fees
- <Regular Admission Fee>
Adults (Middle school students and above): 550 yen
Elementary school students: 350 yen
Preschoolers: Free
*Payment can now be made via PayPay.
<Group Discount>
Adults (Middle school students and above): 500 yen
Elementary school students: 320 yen
*Applies to groups of 20 or more (including elementary school students) who can pay together.
*No reservation is required. Please inform the ticket office directly of your group usage.
<Disability Discount>
Adults (Middle school students and above): 270 yen
Elementary school students: 170 yen
*Please present a disability certificate or a welfare certificate.
*One caregiver is also eligible for the same discount. - Contact Information
- Phone Number：0883-76-0877
- Official Website
Map
Detailed Information
◆ Nationally Designated Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property ◆
The Kazurabashi Bridge in the secluded Iya region holds a sad tale of the Heike clan. Made from shirokuchi kazura vines weighing about 6 tons, it is 45 meters long, 2 meters wide, and 14 meters above the water. In the past, it was the only means of transportation in this deep mountain gorge area. The bridge is rebuilt every three years.
The Iya region, embraced by the steep mountains of Shikoku, is said to be a hidden settlement where Taira no Koresada and Emperor Antoku, who fled after losing the Battle of Yashima, settled in hopes of restoring the Heike clan. Because it remained cut off from outside access until modern times, the ways of life and distinctive customs from the medieval period have been preserved in a form close to the original.
Spanning the Iya River flowing through this region is the Kazurabashi Bridge, designated as a nationally important tangible folk cultural property. This bridge, woven together from shirokuchi kazura vines gathered in the harsh winter mountains and fields, allows you to see the valley floor through gaps in the bridge deck, and combined with the sway of the 45-meter suspension bridge, offers visitors just the right amount of thrill.
There are various theories about the origin of Kazurabashi Bridge, which is counted among Japan’s Three Most Unusual Bridges. Some say it was built so that it could be cut down in order to escape pursuing enemies, while others say it was built by Kobo Daishi during his travels around Shikoku to help villagers in need.
The graceful sight of Kazurabashi Bridge, resting its weight on ancient trees on both banks and casting its reflection on the clear waters of the Iya River, evokes the lives of ancestors long ago, creates a beautiful landscape in harmony with nature, and continues to captivate countless visitors with its powerful individuality.
◎ Iya Kazurabashi Bridge Light-Up
The bridge is illuminated every day from 19:00 to 21:30 (crossing is not permitted).
The Kazurabashi Bridge lit up in the darkness of night is truly fantastical.
◎ The Heike-legendary “Biwa Falls” is right nearby.
About 50 meters to the left immediately after crossing the Iya Kazurabashi Bridge, you will find a waterfall with a drop of about 40 meters.
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