Rebuilding of the Iya Vine Bridge【Once every three years: mid-January to February】

The Vine Bridge in Iya Valley has become a valued symbol of not only tourism in the region, but of the history and tradition that carries on even to this day. Considering the amount of visitors to the valley every year, the vines that secure the bridge eventually grow weathered and must be replaced. So every three years, architects and locals gather to do just that, as part of the Iya Kazurabashi Preservation Association.

 

Traditional methods of rebuilding are preserved here, apart from the steel cables that now run through the frame of the bridge to ensure the safety of visitors. Because of these cables, the bridge can no longer be fully cut down--apparently, in the past, the severing of the bridge was quite the spectacle, and it made a thunderous crash! as it hit the river below. 😮

 

Even worldwide, the vine bridge is quite unique. Vines are found all over Japan, but in order to create a safe bridge, a special type of vines called “shirakuchikazura” are required. These are a species of kiwi vine that are highly resilient to rotting, super strong, and yet flexible when heated. In the past, shirakuchikazura were bountiful in Iya’s mountains, absorbing the moisture of the area and growing all the more sturdy, but as the years stretch on and more and more vines are required for the safe replacement of the bridge, their numbers are decreasing. As such, locals of all ages are making efforts to plant more vine-producing trees in the area. Everyone is doing their best to preserve the bridge that has become a wonderful symbol of the area’s traditions and history.
The next Rebuilding of the Iya Vine Bridge work is scheduled for 2027.

 

Same-day reservations available ! Iya Vine Bridge Crossing Ticket

Tour Iya's Vine Bridge with a Personal Guide (Guide + Ticket included)