If you’re looking for a remote, peaceful, and authentic place in Japan with breathtaking natural scenery, the Iya Valley is your perfect escape.
What you’ll find in this region are towering mountains with forest-covered peaks that change color beautifully with the seasons.
The valley — or rather, the various valleys carved out by the Iya River and its tributary, the Oboke — serve as the natural lifelines of the Miyoshi area.
The Kazurabashi suspension bridge is one of the most famous in Japan. Originally built with mountain vines called kazura (葛) and wood, the bridge’s structure was made by weaving these strong yet flexible vines together. This gives it a rustic appearance and a slight unsteadiness that still thrills visitors today. Over 800 years ago, the Heike warrior clan sought refuge in the mountains of Iya. To stay hidden and control access to the region, they built suspension bridges like this one using natural materials—so they could be quickly cut down if they were being pursued. Today, although the bridge is reconstructed every few years for safety and reinforced with hidden steel cables, it still preserves its traditional look and feel.
To get around the area, you can use the bus lines that connect Oboke, where one of the nearest train stations is located, with other towns and notable natural sites. However, if you’re looking for the freedom to move independently, renting a car is definitely the best option. The roads are generally not very crowded and are well-paved, though the stretch between Kazurabashi and Nishiiyayamamura Tanouchi features steep cliffs with many curves, so you’ll need to drive slowly. This route, known as Nana Magari, is perhaps one of the most beautiful in the region, with several pull-off points where you can stop and admire the stunning views. Just before the famous Manneken Pis statue, you’ll find one of the best accommodations in the area, Iya Onsen. This hotel offers traditional Japanese rooms, delicious dining, and two incredible onsens, one of which is located at the bottom of the valley and is only accessible by cable car.
The Yoshino River is famous for its rapids, and there are local companies that offer rafting and canyoning tours, suitable for both beginners and experienced adventurers. Additionally, the valley features numerous hiking trails that pass through forests and mountains. Mount Tsurugi, the second highest peak in Shikoku, is located in the remote Oku-Iya. Its name, Tsurugi (剣), means sword, and it is said that the sword of Emperor Antoku is buried there. It is the only place in Shikoku where bears live, although they are rarely seen.
Another experience we recommend is riding the Okuiya Kanko Shuyu Monorail (奥祖谷観光周遊モノレール), the longest monorail in the world. It stretches over 4.6 km of the Okuiya mountain, reaching a height of 1,389 meters, with the steepest section having a 40-degree incline. The journey, lasting around 70 minutes, takes you through areas without roads or paths, offering spectacular views of the mountains.
Do you want to travel to the Iya Valley and experience a unique natural paradise in Japan? Contact us, and we will design the perfect experience for an unforgettable trip.