Okuiya Niju Kazurabashi Bridge

Deep within the mountainous interior of Shikoku, the Iya Valley has long been known as one of Japan's most remote and beautiful regions. This is a landscape of precipitous cliffs, turquoise rivers, and emerald forests, often…

The Obashi is the larger and more imposing of the two bridges, stretching 45 meters across the gorge and hanging 14 meters above the rushing waters of the Iya River. As you approach, notice the thickness of the vines that anchor…

Located just downstream from the Obashi is its counterpart, the Mebashi or Wife Bridge. Smaller in scale—approximately 22 meters long—this bridge offers a slightly more intimate experience of the river. …

Perhaps the most unique feature of the Okuiya site is the 'Yaen,' or the Wild Monkey Bridge. This is not a bridge in the traditional sense, but a hand-powered cable car that allows visitors to pull themselves across the river in…

A short walk from the bridges brings us to the Biwa Waterfall, a graceful 50-meter cascade that tumbles down the mossy cliffs into the Iya River. The waterfall is named after the 'biwa,' a traditional Japanese lute. …

Beyond the bridges and the waterfall, a well-maintained forest trail allows for a deeper exploration of the Oku-Iya riverside. The flora here is diverse and characteristic of the Shikoku mountain range. …

While located a short drive from the Double Bridges, no guide to the area is complete without mentioning the iconic 'Peeing Boy' statue (Manneken Pis of Iya). Perched precariously on a rock ledge 200 meters above the valley…

As we depart the Okuiya Niju Kazurabashi, take one last look at the intricate weave of the vines. They are a symbol of endurance, flexibility, and a deep connection to the earth. …