Vine Bridge

Author: Richard Perkins
Photos/Videos Taken: 2025/05/14
Address: 162-2 Zentoku, Nishi-Iya Yamamura,
Miyoshi-shi, Tokushima,【778-0102】
Admission Fee: Adults (middle school students and older) ¥550・
(group) ¥500 | Elementary School Students ¥350・(group) ¥320 | Infants Free

Tokushima Prefecture is abundant with nature. There are activities here where one can fully enjoy nature. This area is also abundant with traditional Japanese culture. There are areas here where nature and Japanese culture (almost) come together as one. Especially when visiting 祖谷 (iya)—one of Japan's three most underexplored regions—one can take advantage of this landscape and have an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.

One extraordinary experience to be had in Tokushima Prefecture is crossing the かずら橋 (kazura-bashi), lit: “Vine Bridge”. This is a long bridge that, as its name implies, utilises 蔓 (kazura—vines). To be a bit more specific, this bridge uses Shirakuchi vine. Weighing in at around 6 tons, the vines have been woven into what looks like rope, then tied together to form a bridge. This bridge is 45 meters long and 2 meters wide. This Vine Bridge is reconstructed every three years to ensure no degradation.

Nowadays, the Vine Bridge is a popular tourist attraction in the Shikoku region that many cross each day. However, it was originally the only route that could be used to cross the deep canyons in the valley where it stands. There are several theories as to why this bridge was constructed, but one suggests that it was built by defeated Heike warriors who lost in the Genpei War (1180-1185). It’s said that they used Shirakuchi vines in the construction as they could be easily cut, preventing enemies from crossing. This is a simple, yet effective design for a bridge that’s jam-packed with the wisdom of the Japanese.

The Vine Bridge is built above the Iya River. Roughly 14 meters above this river, some may find it scary to cross this bridge. However, crossing it gives a great view of the Iya River below. It also gives one a fabulous view of the distinctive topography of Iya. This is magnificent scenery that also makes for a great place to take photographs. Every night from 7 pm to 9:30 pm, lights shine upon this bridge, giving off a fantasy-like atmosphere. Making for another fantastic view, it’s also a lot of fun to cross the Vine Bridge when it gets dark. Not only will those with an interest in Japanese history enjoy this spot, but those who like taking photos will also love it here.

Believe it or not, the Vine Bridge here is not the only one in Iya. Including this one, there are three across Iya. There is also the 奥祖谷二重かずら橋 (oku-iya-nijū-kazura-bashi) and the 野猿 (yaen). Both deep in the mountains of Iya, they aren’t as well-known as the Vine Bridge. They may not be easy to get to, but crossing all of them will (without a doubt) be a special experience.

Now designated as an “Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property”, the Vine Bridge looks even longer than it is when one gets up close to it. This is one tourist spot in Japan that will make one realise just how beautiful a country it really is. This is (in many ways) a historical experience getting to cross this bridge. With easy access via public transportation, this is definitely a spot worth visiting when in Tokushima Prefecture.