Iya Kazura Bridge
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.
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
◆ National Designated Important Tangible Folk Cultural Asset ◆
The Kazura Bridge, located in the secluded area of "Iya," harbors the poignant tale of the Heike clan. Made from Shira-kuchi kazura (weighing approximately 6 tons), it measures 45 meters in length, 2 meters in width, and is 14 meters above the water's surface. In the past, it served as the only transportation facility in the deep mountain valley area, and it is replaced every three years.
Nestled in the steep Shikoku Mountains, the Iya region is said to be where Taira no Kunimitsu and Emperor Antoku fled after their defeat at the Battle of Yashima, hoping to restore the Heike clan and settling in the indigenous village of Iya. Due to its isolation from external transportation until modern times, the lifestyle and unique customs that date back to the Middle Ages have remained in near-original form.
The Kazura Bridge over the Iya River, designated as an Important Tangible Folk Cultural Asset by the national government, is constructed using twisted Shira-kuchi kazura collected in the frigid winter mountains. With gaps in the bridge floor allowing glimpses of the valley below, the sway of the 45-meter-long suspension bridge offers a moderate thrill to those crossing.
There are various theories regarding the origins of the Kazura Bridge, which is counted among Japan's three strange bridges. Some suggest it was built by a fugitive of the Heike clan to be easily cut down in order to escape from pursuers, while another theory holds that it was constructed by Kobo Daishi during his pilgrimage in Shikoku to assist troubled villagers.
The dignified appearance of the Kazura Bridge, with its weight supported by old trees on both banks reflecting upon the clear waters of the Iya River, evokes images of the lives of ancestors from a distant past. It creates a beautiful landscape in harmony with nature, and its strong individuality continues to resonate with many tourists.
◎ Kazura Bridge Illumination
The Kazura Bridge will be illuminated daily from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM (crossing is not permitted). The illuminated bridge against the dark night is truly enchanting.
◎ The "Biwa Falls," steeped in the legend of the Heike, is located just nearby.
After crossing the Kazura Bridge, if you head left for about 50 meters, you will encounter the falls with a drop of approximately 40 meters.
