Iya Valley

Iya Valley (祖谷渓) is a remote mountainous region located in the western part of Tokushima Prefecture, Japan. The valley is known for its stunning natural scenery, traditional thatched-roof houses, and historic vine bridges.

The area is largely untouched by modern development and offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese rural life. The valley is home to several small villages where visitors can stay in traditional Japanese guesthouses called ryokans and experience local culture and cuisine.

One of the most famous attractions in Iya Valley is the vine bridges, which were originally constructed by the local residents using mountain vines called “shirakuchi kazura” (Ampelopsis glandulosa var. heterophylla). Today, these bridges are rebuilt annually to ensure safety, but they still maintain their traditional appearance and construction methods.

Another popular attraction is the Oboke Gorge (大歩危峡), which features steep cliffs and crystal-clear water flowing through the valley. Visitors can take a boat ride down the river to enjoy the stunning scenery and get a closer look at the rock formations.

Iya Valley is also a great place for hiking, with numerous trails that wind through the mountains and offer panoramic views of the valley below. The area is particularly beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color.

TOC

Attractions in Iya Valley
Getting there

Attractions in Iya Valley

Getting there

By Train

From JR Okayama Station: About 1 hour 30 minutes by limited express train to Oboke Station
From JR Takamatsu Station: About 1 hour by limited express train to Awa-Ikeda Station (one transfer)
From JR Tokushima Station: About 1 hour 15 minutes by limited express train to Awa-Ikeda Station (trains run every 2 hours)

By Bus

From Osaka (Shin-Osaka Station or Hankyu Umeda Station): About 4 hours by express bus to Awa-Ikeda Bus Terminal
One-way fare: 4,750 yen, Round-trip fare: 8,600 yen

By Car

Renting a car is convenient (rental car shops available at Awa-Ikeda Station, Oboke, Takamatsu, and Tokushima)
Caution is needed while driving as roads are narrow and winding

Local Transportation

Public buses are infrequent, especially in the Oku-Iya (East Iya) area where they are very limited
Rental cars or tourist taxis are recommended