iya valley tour from takamatsu

Iya Valley Tours

Nobody can show you Iya like us

Based in the heart of Shikoku's Iya Valley, we offer the widest range of one-of-a-kind guided tours and experiences of this secluded region, with both fixed or flexible routes to meet your specific needs or interests.

Explore ancient hillside hamlets like Ochiai Village and its historic thatched roof farmhouses, taste the area's delicious food and maybe learn to cook some as well, sway across the daring vine bridges that are unique to the valley, climb lofty mountain peaks like Mt. Tsurugi and encounter stunning viewpoints, discover amazing spots like the Scarecrow Village of Nagoro, and all the while be charmed by the humble Iya people. 

Led by an English speaking local guide and taken by private car and driver, we can help you create the perfect tour itinerary for your half-day, full day, or multi-day visit.  See more about our tours >>

W e will not be available for Guided Tours from July 24 to August 20, 2024 . But if you are planning to come during this time, it is instead possible to arrange a Taxi-only Tour by contacting Kazurabashi Taxi directly via their website . Thank you.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Iya Valley on Shikoku, Japan – 9 Unforgettable Things to Do

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This remote river valley in the mountains of eastern Shikoku ’s Tokushima Prefecture is one of my favourite places on the entire island. The sheer isolation of the place made it a popular hiding place for political refugees, and during the 12 th century Samurai from the Heike Clan ostensibly fled to the valley to hide after being defeated in the Genpei War (1180 to 1185).

Today, the only people hiding in the Iya valley are travelers wanting to get off Japan’s tourist trail , and I can hardly imagine a better place to do so. Combining breathtaking nature with cute little villages and plenty of unusual sights , you could spend days exploring the area and still have enough reasons to come back.

If you don’t have a lot of time to spend, read on for descriptions of the Iya Valley’s must-see attractions as well as practical information for exploring this natural paradise.

This post may contain affiliate links, and I might earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more info, click here .

Organized Tours of the Iya Valley

If your time in the Iya Valley is limited, and you still want to see as much as possible, an organized tour might be the way to go. There are several options available, like this bike tour of the Valley or this half-day tour with a chauffeur . You can browse for more options below.

What to see and do in the Iya Valley

As the area of interest for the traveler stretches out over quite a distance, I’ve decided to list the most important points of interest geographically rather than by significance. The list starts in Oboke at the western end of the Valley and ends at the Double Vine Bridge close to Mount Tsurugi in the east.

Lapis Oboke – Demon and Mineral Museum

This gaudy museum is dedicated to an unusual combination of themes: Minerals and Yōkai, the demon-creatures of Japanese Mythology. There are some beautiful examples of crystal formations, but unless you are a geologist, the latter will probably be the main reason to visit.

The museum does a good job of introducing some of the more important Yōkai and explaining their origin and modus operandi , giving you important survival tips, should you encounter these often deceitful creatures😉. All kidding aside, it’s a lot of fun and an interesting glimpse into an aspect of the rich Japanese mythology. The entrance fee is 500¥.

The museum is located in Oboke, near the bus stop Michi-no Eki Oboje. You can also walk there from Oboke Train Station in about 20 minutes. Cross the river east of the station and then walk north along the highway running west of the river until you see a big parking lot on the right hand side. There’s a nice viewpoint on a platform over the river a little farther to the north.

Iya-No Kazura-bashi (Vine Bridge)

One of the biggest tourist draws to the Iya Valley, you’ll likely have to share the visit to this Vine Bridge in Nishi-Iya with plenty of other people. You’ll get the best view of the construction from the road bridge directly to the west, but if you want to cross it, you’ll have to pay an entrance fee of 550¥.

I found it to be an enjoyable experience but be advised: the gaps between the boards are quite big, so if you suffer from vertigo, you should probably stick to admiring it from afar. If you prefer your ancient vine bridges without hoards of tourist, you might want to consider visiting the more atmospheric Oku-Iya Niju Kazura-bashi further east (see below). You can easily reach it by bus (bus-stop Kazurabashi).

Buke Yashiki Samurai House

This preserved mid-18 th century house, located high above the village of Kyojo used to belong to a samurai of the local Kita Clan and inside you can get acquainted with the daily living conditions of this highly respected part of Japanese Society. You can explore the central living area as well as the kitchen and servants quarters.

There are some portrait photographs of the former inhabitants as well as some beautiful painted scrolls and plenty of utensils of daily life. Next to the house you’ll find a small shrine and a massive 800 year old cedar tree . The views of the surrounding peaks and the opposite slope of the valley from up here are splendid.

The entrance fee is 300¥ and the closest bus stop is Kyojo down in the village of the same name. To get to the house, you’ll either need your own transport or lug your way up the northern slope several serpentines on foot, like we did. Going by foot, it takes about an hour and really puts the isolation of the place into perspective.

Imagine walking up here every time you wanted to go home – I guess there’s always a price to pay for solitude. Watch out for Japanese Rat Snakes on the way up there – we spotted one hiding in the underbrush near the road. They’re non-venomous, so no need to worry.

Higashi-Iya Museum of History and Folklore

This small museum in the village of Higashi-Iya gives a nice impression of the daily routine of villagers in the valley over the last couple of centuries. Apart from several tools and objects of daily life, you’ll find a reconstruction of a traditional tatami -matted sitting room with a central stove and a fascinating complex figurine used for puppet theatre performances as well as several other interesting displays.

The museum is located right next to the Kyojo bus-stop and the entrance fee is 300¥.

Ochiai Traditional Village

Ochiai is a pretty little village full of traditional houses that lends itself for a great hour or so of exploration. The rows of houses are constructed on terraces across the northern slope of the valley and as you would expect, the higher you climb the better the views get.

Apart from a number of cute thatch-roofed houses, there is a small Shinto shrine set in a copse in the centre of the village. If you’re hungry, you should check out the small Soba Dojo restaurant at the eastern end of the village serving the traditional regional variation of Soba (buckwheat noodles).

There’s a bus stop at the foot of the village called Ochiai-Bashi.

Oku-Iya Sightseeing Tour Monorail

If you want to explore a bit of the natural surroundings of the valley but don’t feel up to a strenuous hike, this Sightseeing Monorail is the ideal solution for you. Little beetle-shaped cars sitting two people will gently transport you through the forest and up the slopes of the mountain at a surprisingly steep angle.

After you’ve left the forest, you’ll get some nice views of the valley and surrounding peaks before descending to the point you started.

Make sure your schedule isn’t too tight. If everything goes as planned, the whole trip should take about an hour, but we were in there for a bit longer.

The people in front of us had some technical problems, so we had to hit the emergency brake and wait for the guy in the maintenance beetle to come and kick-start us. Although I have to say, there are worse places to be stuck for half an hour than a beautiful Japanese forest full of fluttering birds.

The tour costs 2000¥ for adults and 1000¥ for children. To get there, you’ll have to take the bus to Sugeoi station, where you can walk across the river to the southern bank and then follow the road running west for about 20 mins.

Nagoro Doll Village

A museum full of demons and a beetle-shaped monorail isn’t weird enough for you? How about a village populated by dolls? The appearance of Nagoro is the brainchild of local artist Tsukimi Ayano.

There’s no entrance fee, and the village can easily be reached by bus (get off at the aptly named Nagoro (Scarecrow Village) bus stop). Coming from Kyojo or further west, you’ll have to change buses in Kubo.

You can find everything you need to know about visiting this unique place in my guide here .

Oku-Iya Niju Kazura-bashi (Eastern Iya Valley Vine Bridges)

This set of double vine bridges is located in the more remote eastern part of the valley, close to the foot of Mt. Tsurigi. As they take significantly longer to get to, the number of visitors they get is much smaller, and we were on our own to explore them.

Crossing them is a bit adventurous and lots of fun (if you’re not suffering from a fear of heights). Apart from that, the interesting way they are constructed is reason enough to check them out, as is the beautiful stretch of river they’re located at.

You can climb down to the water and admire them from below, and there’s even a small nature trail leading a few hundred meters east along the river. If you can’t get enough of unusual ways to cross the river, there’s also a small wooden gondola you can use to pull yourself across. The entrance fee is 550¥.

Further attractions in the Iya Valley

This is the farthest east we got in the valley – if you continue about 5km east, you’ll reach the foot of Mount Tsurigi. I can’t give you any first-hand info on that, but you can check out the information on the Iya Valley Tourism Website .

The Iya Valley is vast and you could spend weeks exploring the beautiful surroundings. There are some other attractions we didn’t make, which you could check out. For instance, there are several companies offering boat tours along the river in Oboke.

The undisputed emblem of the valley is the statue of a Peeing Boy situated atop a cliff somewhat close to Iya Onsen , a traditional bathhouse-hotel popular with domestic visitors. Both of these locations can be found along the road between Miyoshi in the south and Iyaguchi in the north.

Practicalities

How to get to the iya valley.

By far the best way to get around Japan is by using the country’s impeccable train system, which is fast, comfortable and efficient. A regional JR-Railway pass allows for unlimited use of Shikoku’s JR railways for 3 (9,000¥/68$), 4 (10,000¥/75$), 5 (11,000¥/82$) or 7 days (13,000¥/96$), which is a fantastic deal. You can order your pass online on this site.

Oboke, at the western end of the Iya Valley can be reached by JR train from Kochi in the south (about 50 mins. / 1,300¥) and Takamatsu (about 1,5 hours/1,800¥) or Kotohira (about 40 mins./1,100¥) in the north.

In Oboke you can board local buses traversing the valley from west to east (See How to get around section).

Where to stay in the Iya Valley

There are a couple of places to stay in the valley but budget options are somewhat scarce.

We stayed at Yoki Guesthouse in Miyoshi but at the moment they only seem to rent entire apartments, making it more of a mid-range to top-end option. If you do decide to stay here, you can sleep in the traditional way on mattresses atop the tatami mats on the floor. The guest-house is impeccably run by Usin, who speaks English and is very knowledgeable about the surrounding attractions.

Currently, the most affordable options seem to be Heso Camp or 4S Stay Awaikeda Ekimae in Miyoshi.

Mid-Range and Top-End options are a bit more frequent. One of the most popular ones is Hotel Iya Onsen , sporting beautiful views and warm springs to bathe in. Hotel Kazurabashi near the western vine bridge also famously features open-air baths with a view.

You can browse for more options here:

Where to eat in the Iya Valley

As there are no big towns in the valley, the numbers of restaurants are limited. One of your best bets is to eat at your hotel or guest-house. For example, Usin at Yoki Guesthouse cooks some super tasty dinner and there’s also a kitchen where you can do a bit of self-catering.

There’s a small grocery store in the village where you can get provisions. Apart from that there are some small restaurants and cafés in some of the villages in the valley. You could try Soba Dojo in Ochiai to try some of the local Soba Noodles served in a cold broth. There are also some cafés near the Iya-No Kazura-bashi vine bridge .

How to get around in the Iya Valley

The easiest way if you’re short on time would be renting a car in Takamatsu or any of the other big cities on Shikoku and drive yourself. If that’s not in your budget, it’s possible to get around the Iya Valley without a car – It just takes a bit of planning. We managed to see all of the above sights in two and a half days using only public buses.

Mainly, there are four buses going west to east per day and four going the other way. You can check out the current schedules here . You get a ticket while boarding the bus and pay the driver when you leave. There’s a constantly adjusting electronic display telling you the necessary balance of your ticket number.

At the time of writing, four buses a day make their way through the valley. To get to attractions in the eastern part of the valley (like Nagoro Village or the Double Vine Bridge), you’ll have to change buses at Kubo (where you won’t have to wait as the buses are timed perfectly).

Where to go next

Takamatsu, home to one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens

Kotohira, a cute small town featuring an impressive Shinto Shrine

4 thoughts on “ The Ultimate Guide to the Iya Valley on Shikoku, Japan – 9 Unforgettable Things to Do ”

Thank you so much. Planning to visit this spring. Wanted to stay there for a while

You’re very welcome, Daniela! This is definitely an area that rewards a longer stay, as there’s a lot to see. Feel free to contact me if you have any further questions:-)

Thank you. Where i can contact you Reinhard? My gsm 0032 472 907679 [email protected]

If you have any questions, you can drop me a mail at reinhard[at]perchancetoroam.com

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Iya Valley – Why You Should Travel To This Lovely Mountainous Area!

The gorgeous Iya Valley is a quiet and remote mountainous region located in western Tokushima Prefecture, pretty much in the centre of Shikoku Island. It’s characterized by deep valleys, tall mountains, and traditional lifestyle and scenery, and this is exactly what people travel here for. Although it’s long been on the map for domestic tourists and such, it’s still a relatively foreign destination for westerners.

Back in its hey-day, Iya Valley used to be a well-known retreat for those in the Taira Clan who were defeated after losing the Gempei War (during the early 1100s) and needed a place to hide and recover. Nowadays, some of the locals still residing in the valley are said to be descendants of this clan.

Before Iya Valley became a tourist destination, it was relatively difficult to get to due to the narrow access roads, and getting in, around, and out of there was hard. There was lack of provisions to sustain tourists. Nowadays, you will actually witness the community thriving on the tourists who come from far and wide to witness the beauty of the natural landscape here.

  If you’re looking for a trip that will get you in touch with nature, show off the exquisiteness of the Japanese countryside, and give you some time to unwind from the heavy exploration of cities, then Iya Valley is a great option.

How To Get To Iya Valley

To explore Iya Valley, we recommend hiring a rental car due to its remote location. That way, you will have free reign when it comes to how long you want to stay at certain locations. There are rental car services at Awa Ikeda Station, Oboke, Takamatsu Airport and Tokushima Airport. When driving through the valley, make sure you go slow and steady, as they’re much narrower than the usual roads.

Otherwise, from Okayama or Kochi, catch the JR Nampu limited express train to either Awa-Ikeda and Oboke Station.

From Osaka , you can catch a highway bus from Shin-Osaka Station or Hankyu Umeda Station to Awa-Ikeda Bus Terminal. This will take four hours, cost around 4,650 yen, and can be booked online at Japan Bus Online.

Where To Stay In Iya Valley

Ryokan in iya valley – kazuraya.

This ryokan located right in the mountains of Iya Valley is stunning in the most traditional sense. It’s got all the features and decor of a typical ryokan, with wide windows that open up to views of the luscious valleys and forests surrounding.

It’s classified as two-stars, however, with its own spa and wellness centre, free Wi-Fi throughout, private bathrooms for every room, premium kaiseki dinner meals, and a relaxing public onsen bath, it may as well be five!

Guest Tips : Advance bookings are required for dinner and there is no restaurant on-site so make sure you include dinner in your reservation! Also, there is a shuttle service from the hotel to the nearest bus stop, which is Iyanoyado Kazuraya Hiraguri.

Book It Now : Kazuraya

Ryokan in Iya Valley – Iya Onsen

Iya Onsen has set the standard in Iya Valley for premium grade accommodation. This ryokan is simply breathtaking, and with a backdrop of deep valleys and mountains in the background, you simply can’t get much better than this.

The air? Super fresh. The food? Very local. Comfort level? A-grade. R&R? 100%.

During all seasons of the year, Iya Onsen will turn it up. It’s located smack-bang in the middle of a bunch of different attractions that you can visit quite easily. It offers elegant and spacious guest rooms with tatami mat flooring, Japanese futon bedding, various onsite onsen baths, and the option of catching its very own cable car to an open-air hot spring deep in the valley. Just wow.

Guest Tips : You can use the public onsen, or you can pay a small fee and use their private onsite onsen! Just make sure you make a reservation. Food here is out of this world, do yourself a favour and book breakfast and dinner during your stay! The hotel also offers a free night tour out to the vine bridge nearby so make sure you take advantage of it!

Book It Now : Iya Onsen

The 5 Best Things To Do in Iya Valley

Here is our list of the places we recommend you to visit in Iya Valley:

• Iya Kazurabasi & Biwa Waterfall
• Oku Iya Double Vine Bridge
• The Peeing Boy Statue
• Oboke Gorge
• Mount Tsurugi

1. Iya Kazurabashi & Biwa Waterfall

In the past, there were a whopping 13 different vine suspension bridges stretched across the valley to transport people and goods in and around. However, these days there only exists three left, and the Iya Kazurabashi is the longest and most popular one to visit. It stretches a massive 45-metres across the valley, and sits at an uncomfortable height of 14-metres across the Iya River.

Although it may look super traditional and ancient, it’s actually rebuilt every three years and anchored down by strong cedar trees using steel cables so it’s considered quite safe!

Visitors here will pay a small fee to cross from one side to the other. The bridge, whilst it does sway and rock from side to side, is definitely stable enough to walk across and even stand around on to take photos. Even children can participate in this! However, please make sure you hold their hands securely and walk across slowly and steadily, as they may trip or slip.

On the other side of the bridge, you can walk a little bit further and witness Biwa Waterfall, and small, cascading waterfall that’s a refreshing change of scenery from all the green forests. Around this area there are some casual local eateries that you can stop into for some refreshments and light meals. If you have time, we recommend that you duck in for some fresh handmade udon noodles and Ayu grilled fish!

• Address : 162-2 Nishiiyayamamura Zentoku, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0102, Japan
• Access : From Awa-Ikeda Station, take bus bound for ‘Kubo’ to Kazurabashi and alight. This will take just over an hour.
• Hours : 7:00am – 5:00pm
• Price : 550yen

2. Oku Iya Double Vine Bridge

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mickey Honda (@mickeyguide) on Nov 13, 2019 at 6:59pm PST

Of the 3 still surviving suspension bridges, two of them are located quite close to each other deep in the valley. They’re known as Oku Ita Kazurabashi, or couples bridge. How fitting! The larger of the two bridges (or otherwise known as the Husband bridge), is measured to stretch 44-metres across the valleys, whilst the smaller bridge (aka the Wife bridge) is much shorter, spanning only 22-metres across.

Similar to the Iya Kazurabashi, both of these bridges have been reconstructed with steel cables for stability. Whilst they’re not technically right next to each other, you can get from one to the other via some easy hiking trails around the valley.

Crossing these bridges are quite fun, as you feel the wind swaying the bridge slightly from side to side, and viewing the Iya River upstream or downstream from the middle of the stream provides a different perspective of its beauty.

• Address : Japan, 〒778-0201 Tokushima, Miyoshi, Higashiiyasugeoi
• Hours : 9:00am – 5:00pm
• Price : 500 yen

3. The Peeing Boy Statue

This statue is iconic throughout the Iya Valley region. Ancient folklore tells the tale that the local boys as well as tourists passing through had the idea that to prove their manliness, they needed to climb up to the very edge of the precarious cliff where this statue now stands and pee off the edge.

This statue was erected to, of course, poke fun at this, but now it’s become quite an attraction itself. However, a railing has now been constructed around the statue to deter visitors from attempting this dangerous act. Still, spotting a statue like this in the middle of a valley deep in Japan’s natural landscape is something most people probably would have never thought about!

• Address : Japan, 〒778-0165 Tokushima, Miyoshi
• Access : It is best accessed if you have your own car.

4. Oboke Gorge

The beauty of Oboke Gorge is somewhat legendary amongst the Japanese people. Amongst the outdoor activities most revered in Japan, witnessing this gorge is definitely up there. Oboke Gorge is located towards the entrance of Iya Valley, and visiting this attraction combined with Iya Kazurabashi is a popular choice for day trippers.

Visitors to this gorge can choose to participate in a variety of activities to experience the waters. They include the most popular Oboke Sightseeing Boat Cruise, which is a very gentle 30-minute boat ride down the river where you will sometimes get quite close to the rocks.

This is a recommended activity if you have kids or elderly people in your group, as it’s quite fascinating to witness just how still the water is, illustrated by the crystal-clear reflection of the gorges in the water. Fascinating. There is a guide who will point out various parts of the gorge, however, they will speak Japanese only so you may need to just watch their hand movements!

During the warmer seasons, visitors can also participate in water rafting here as well. Yoshino River, which flows through the middle of the gorge, is actually one of the most well-known destinations in Japan for water rafting. Its beauty, climate, and water conditions make it the ideal destination for water activity enthusiasts.

You can book in half day or full day rafting tours, and if this is not quite your cup of tea, you can also choose to do activities like cayoning (traveling through canyons through climbing, jumping, abseiling, and swimming) and hydrospeeding (involves jumping into fast-flowing water and being carried along at high speed whilst on a float).

• Address : Yamashirocho Shigezane, Miyoshi, Tokushima 779-5322, Japan
• Access : From Awa-Ikeda Station, catch the train or bus to Oboke. You can then catch a bus from the station to the gorge.
• River Cruise Information : You can book tickets at the ticket desk when you arrive at the gorge, there is no need to book beforehand.
• Price : Adult: 1,080 yen, Child: 540 yen

For White Water Rafting, Happy Raft is a popular option to book your tour with.

5. Mount Tsurugi

What would a trip to Iya Valley be without a great hike? Mount Tsurugi, located on the eastern side of the valley, is the second tallest mountain in the entirety of Shikoku Island. Visitors who want to experience this mountain can actually take a chilled-out chairlift ride right most of the way up the mountain near its summit, and then walk approximately 30-minutes to the peak. At the top you can spend some time exploring shrines, mountain huts, and walk along various wooden boardwalks that lead around the different viewpoints of the mountain.

If you’re an avid hiker or keen for a bit of an outdoor adventure, you can actually climb the mountain from the trailhead at Mi no Koshi, which is located nearby to the chairlift station at the bottom. It is around a two-hour hike one-way.

• Address : Higashiiyasugeoi, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0201, Japan
• Access : From Awa Ikeda Station, take the bus to Kubo, and then transfer to a bus bound for Tsurugisan, and alight at the last stop which is near the lower chairlift station. The entire trip will take just under three hours, however, there are a limited number of buses a day, so make sure your itinerary. Because of its remote location and difficult access routes, we recommend hiring a car.
• Notes : Buses from Kubo to Tsurugisan only operate on the weekends and during the warmer seasons from April until November.
• Hours : 9:00am – 4:30pm ( chairlift)
• Price : 1,030 one-way, 1,860 return ( chairlift )

Iya Valley is like an action-packed adventure and a leisurely stroll on a mountain all wrapped into one. On your trip, you’ll unlikely to come across a place as full of luscious greenery as the forests here in Iya Valley. It truly represents the beauty of Japan’s natural landscapes, and we strongly urge you to head on out here to gain an appreciation for it too.

Shikoku Island is an amazing area to visit so if you want to visit another hidden gem nearby, have a look at Dogo Onsen .

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The Wildest Way Through Shikoku

August 27, 2023 by Robert Schrader Leave a Comment

The first time I visited the Iya Valley, Japan took on a new dimension to me. This was partially because of the experiences themselves, and partially because of the unique circumstances of my visit.

I was a guest of the JTB travel agency, who masterfully organized things to do in the Iya Valley, and integrated them with the rest of my group’s media trip to Shikoku . Thing is it was the middle of winter, a season that is tolerable in sub-tropical Shikoku, but still somewhat cold, especially given the Iya Valley’s altitude.

I’ll explain in another article whether or not this is best time to visit Shikoku (and what some alternatives might be). For now, however, allow me to explain to you why this wild pocket of mountains and forest should be on your Japan bucket list—and to gift you with a provisional Iya Valley itinerary.

How to Reach the Iya Valley

Getting to the Iya Valley is rather simple, at least from within Shikoku. It sits relatively equidistant between the cities of Tokushima and Takamatsu . If you plan to travel by train, you can ride the JR Tokushima Line to Awa-Ikeda Station. (Which direction you go depends on where you enter Shikoku—if you enter via Takamatsu you’ll be heading east; you’ll travel west if you’re coming from Tokushima.)

On the media trip I mentioned in the intro, I traveled from Tokushima to Iya Valley, but then continued on to Kochi, rather than heading straight through to Takamatsu. This is also possible for you, regardless of how you travel. Note, however, that if you’re exploring Shikoku via private car (which is certainly advisable within Iya Valley, if not on the island more broadly), your sequencing is slightly less important.

What to Do in the Iya Valley

Start where the iya river bends.

The most iconic spot in the Iya Valley, visually speaking, is a dramatic bend in the Iya River that most Japanese have come to associate with it. Interestingly, there doesn’t seem to be any thematic or mythological connection between the shape of this bend and the name I Ya , which translates to “Ancestor Valley” in Japanese. At any rate, looking down onto this landform will definitely be a highlight of your Iya Valley itinerary.

Say “Konnichiwa” to the Peeing Boy

Although the Peeing Boy of the Iya Valley seems to be an homage (or at least a reference) to the Pissing Boy of Brussels, I’m not sure this was intention. Rather the statue, which was erected in the late 1960s, is a monument to the tendency of local young men to relieve themselves high above the river below. Like the one in Brussels, this statue is pretty small and unimposing—I wouldn’t recommend spending more than a few minutes here.

Boat Through Oboke Gorge

Water adventures are among my favorite things to do in Shikoku, and the “pleasure boat” ride through Oboke Gorge is one of the most scenic. Note that if you decide to follow in my footsteps and visit during early February, it’s going to be extremely cold. I certainly wasn’t dressed appropriately; I paid the price as such. If you visit during summer (perhaps after hiking on Mt. Tsurugi) this might be rather refreshing indeed.

(Try to) Cross the Kazurabashi Bridge

There are several “rope” bridges in the Iya Valley, but my favorite is Kazurabashi, whose name actually directly translates to “vine bridge.” Walking across here requires a certain amount of mind over matter, in spite of being in Japan, which means you more or less know it’s safe. My advice is to move relatively quickly, and also to choose footwear that isn’t going to caught in any of the bridge’s holes or depressions.

Take a Bath at Iya Onsen

One of my favorite Shikoku hot springs is Iya Onsen, with various hotels offering baths bubbling with its waters at the bottom of the Iya Valley. This—that there are many hotels offering access—is the good news. The bad news? The onsen isn’t open to the general public, which means you’ll need to stay at one of the relevant hotels or ryokan in order to avail the warmth of their healing waters, a perfect conclusion to your Iya Valley itinerary.

Where to Stay in the Iya Valley

I’ll be honest; Many Iya Onsen hotels (including Hotel Iyaonsen itself) are expensive, outdated and prone to being sold out. To address this problem, I have an easy solution: Approach where you stay with ambiguity. This is advisable not only in the sense of your specific accommodation (simple lodging such as 4S Stay Awa-Ikeda Ekimae and Yamaya Base are perfectly accessible), but in terms of its location, particularly if you have your own set of wheels.

To be sure, nothing says you have to sleep a night in the Iya Valley, even if committing to do so will give you more time to explore the attractions I’ve mentioned above. You can absolutely visit on a day trip from Tokushima or Takamatsu—particularly, again, if you’ll have your own private transportation, and won’t need to be at the whims of the relatively thin bus schedules in this part of Shikoku.

Other Shikoku Destinations

Chances are very good that your Shikoku trip will neither begin nor end in the Iya Valley. Assuming you start in Tokushima and enter Iya Valley from there, here’s how to conclude your trip:

• Takamatsu (including Marugame Castle and Kotohira-gu )
• The “Art Island” of Naoshima

Other Iya Valley FAQ

How do i get to iya valley.

You can reach the Iya Valley by flying or traveling by bus to the city of Tokushima, on Shikoku island, than either riding the train (to Awa-Ikeda) or a bus or driving into the Iya Valley. Iya Valley is closer to Osaka and Kyoto than it is to Tokyo, although you’re likely to fly in from Tokyo; the journey time should be similar (about 3-4 hours, when all is said and done).

Which prefecture is Iya Valley?

The Iya Valley is in the western part of Tokushima prefecture, one of the four prefectures that makes up Shikoku island. However, it’s also relatively close to the city of Takamatsu in Kagawa prefecture; some travelers begin their journeys here.

In which prefecture can you find ancient vine bridges?

There are ancient vine bridges throughout Japan, although the most common one is Kazurabashi, located in the Iya Valley, in the western part of Tokushima prefecture on Shikoku island.

The Bottom Line

Should you visit the Iya Valley? Japan certainly offers more accessible natural experiences, and ones that are more traditionally popular. On the other hand, whether you walk across a rickety rope bridge or ride a boat through a rock-walled gorge, Iya Valley is one of the wildest places in Japan. With this being said, if you plan to be in Shikoku anyway, it’s easy to integrate this Iya Valley itinerary into your trip—it sits roughly halfway between Tokushima and Takamatsu; you can also visit it on your way to Kochi. Here’s to hoping we can all enter Japan again soon—and that you can see for yourself!

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A Complete Guide to Visiting the Iya Valley in Shikoku, Japan

Created On: October 19, 2023   |   Updated: October 25, 2023   |   Leave a comment

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links from which we may make commission from. As always, we only recommend places and products we love! In addition, we try our best to keep our articles up-to-date with current prices, locations, and hours of operation however we always recommend double-checking when planning a trip as these items can change frequently.

The Iya Valley is a remote mountainous area in the less visited Shikoku Region of Japan. Logan and I first visited the Iya Valley when we were living in Japan and it quickly turned into one of our favorite places for outdoor activities. 

Historically, the Iya Valley was most notably populated by members of the Heike clan who were rumored to have lived in this area after losing the Genpei War to the Minamoto clan in the 12th century. The vine bridges you’ll find in the Iya Valley were used by the Heike clan to get from place to place in the valley and as a security measure so they could cut the bridges down if they were attacked. 

The scenic beauty in the Iya Valley, although growing more popular, is still mostly untouched and today you can view stunning mountain valleys, visit thatched-roof farmhouses, walk across the historic vine bridges, and admire the emerald river cascading through the landscape.

Things to Know Before Visiting the Iya Valley

• Higashi-Iya Post Office ATM
• Ochiai Post Office ATM
• Nishi-Iya Post Office ATM
• Oboke Post Office ATM
• If you are driving keep in mind that the roads are narrow, windy, and at times one-lane only. Take your time and make sure to learn about Japanese driving rules before you go. 
• Bring or wear layers, even in the summer. The temperature can range drastically in the Iya Valley throughout the day depending on your activities. For example, the temperature on Mt. Tsurugi is going to most likely be cooler than at the vine bridges because of the elevation change. 
• You can’t always rely on Google hours for restaurants and grocery stores can be difficult to find. I will cover more places to eat in the Iya Valley but one recommendation I have before visiting, especially if you are driving, is to stop at a grocery store on the way to get at least some snacks and drinks. 

When is the Best Time to Visit the Iya Valley?

Most of the time when people ask me when is the best time to visit a specific place in Japan I always say “It depends on what you’re looking for and what you want to do” because each season has its own unique charms. But in the Iya Valley, I am more specific. I personally believe that the best time to visit the Iya Valley is in the early summer or fall. 

In the summer the Iya Valley has lush green landscapes and you can cool off with the many water activities like canyoning and rafting. It’s still hot, but since this is a mountainous area, there are usually ample places to find shade. Even when we hiked Mt. Tsurugi in the heat of the summer wasn’t too bad although we did chug two Pocari Sweat each once we reached the top! Summer is also Japan’s rainy season so it can rain in the Iya Valley during this time I would try to go mid-May through June to avoid the summer typhoon season. 

In autumn, the Iya Valley is bursting with color starting in October through mid-November and it makes for even better scenery. It is also a great time to relax in an outdoor onsen and have less humid, cooler weather for hiking and other outdoor activities. 

Spring is also a great time to visit the Iya Valley but can still be pretty cold until mid-May making it slightly less picturesque because the trees don’t start blooming until late May, although the sakura season here is usually late March.

Winter is the time I would advise against visiting the Iya Valley for a number of reasons. For starters, the scenery isn’t as pretty with the leafless trees and a lot of businesses and even some hotels are closed from December-March. Inclement weather can be unpredictable during this time and close some of the mountain passes as well. 

How to Get to the Iya Valley

Because of its remote location getting to the Iya Valley isn’t as simple as visiting places like Kyoto but there are a few ways to get to the Iya Valley by bus, train, or car. 

How to Get to the Iya Valley by Bus

The most cost-efficient way to get to the Iya Valley is by bus and it also allows you to travel to even more remote areas of the Iya Valley without a car. However, the downside of traveling to the Iya Valley by bus is that the rides are long so this is something to keep in mind if you are pressed for time and only have a day or two to spare in your itinerary.

The Hankyu Bus travels between Hankyu Umeda Station (Osaka) and the Awa-Ikeda Bus Terminal . You will then take a local bus to complete the journey to the Iya Valley area for around ¥600 yen or transfer to a local train, either the Dosan Line or Dosan Limited Express. 

It takes around four hours to get to the Awa-Ikeda Bus Terminal and costs around ¥5,000 one-way. Tickets can be booked in advance on the Hankyu Express Bus website or Japan Bus Online searching between Osaka and Awa-Ikeda. 

The JR Shikoku Bus is another bus service that goes from Osaka and Kyoto to the Miyoshi Bus Stop . Tickets for this bus also cost around ¥5,000 one-way. The only trouble with this route is that it does not directly take you to Awa-Ikeda which has more transportation options to the Iya Valley and local buses can be inconvenient at times, only have seasonal hours, or randomly are non-operable so if you decide to take the JR Shikoku Bus, I would instead recommend transferring from the bus to a train at Tokushima Station so you can take the Tokushima Line to Awa-Ikeda. However, if you do decide to travel to Miyoshi Bus Stop be sure to look at the bus timetable in advance. 

How to Get to the Iya Valley by Train

Getting to the iya valley from osaka.

From Osaka you will take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen to Okayama Station and then transfer to the Dosan Limited Express Train from Okayama Station to either Awa-Ikeda Station or Oboke Station, these are the two stations that allow for easy transfers or are the closest stations to many of the things to do in the Iya Valley. This part of the journey takes around 3 hours. You will then transfer to a local bus to get from place to place in the Iya Valley (see transportation in the Iya Valley in the next section below) . 

Getting to the Iya Valley From Kyoto

From Kyoto, the fastest way to get to the Iya Valley is by taking the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Okayama Station and then transferring to the Dosan Limited Express Train from Okayama Station to Oboke Station (or Awa-Ikeda Station). The entire journey takes around 3 hours. You will then transfer to a local bus to get from place to place in the Iya Valley (see transportation in the Iya Valley in the next section below) . 

Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari Train

If you want a unique luxury experience consider riding on the Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari Train . This luxury train includes a bento lunchbox and comfortable seats facing special viewing windows to enjoy the scenic journey.

From Okayama Station take the Dosan Line Limited Express Train to Tadotsu Station. The journey takes around 1 hour and costs approximately ¥2,940 one-way. You will then transfer to the Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari Train to travel from Tadotsu Station to Oboke Station with a stop at Kotohira Station. Alternatively, you can also depart from Kotohira Station which is one stop from Tadotsu Station. 

Bookings on the Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari Train are available up to 30 days in advance and it is best to book early, especially in peak times. Bookings are available online in English for both the fare and lunch box only at around ¥10,000 or you can book in person at one of the Green Windows of any major train station which omits the online handling fee of ¥870 and you can also opt out of the lunch which makes the fare-only cost around ¥3,600. 

If you have an All Shikoku Rail Pass , the base fare for this train is included and you’ll only have to pay the reserved green car seat fee of around ¥2,400 in person with an active rail pass. 

Book the Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari Train

How to Get to the Iya Valley by Car

Depending on where you are driving from in Japan there are a number of ways to get to the Iya Valley. However, regardless of where you travel from, you are bound to cross the Onaruto Bridge (coming from Osaka), the Seto Bridge (from Okayama), or the E76 Bridge Route (from Onomichi). 

Tolls in Japan can be quite expensive and the expressway bridges range from ¥2,500-¥10,000 depending on if you have an ETC card and are not usually covered in Expressway Passes. If you are driving in Japan, I always recommend getting an ETC card with your car rental. It usually only costs around ¥1,000 to rent and allows you to pass through toll booths without stopping and can give you a discount on tolls.

If you plan to travel around Shikoku make sure to look into the San’in-Setouchi-Shikoku Expressway Pass (SEP) which in combination with the ETC card will allow you to use nearly all expressways in this region for a fixed price. Passes are available for 3-10 day periods and are available to purchase at one of the car rental stations outlined on their website. 

More Information About Driving in Japan

Transportation in the Iya Valley

Because of the remoteness of the Iya Valley public transportation is infrequent and sometimes difficult to navigate which is why we usually opt to drive in the Iya Valley when visiting. However, there are still some public transportation options you can utilize. There are two bus companies you can use in the Iya Valley, the Shikoku Kotsu Bus and the Local Miyoshi Municipal Bus.  

The Shikoku Kotsu Bus starts at the Awa-Ikeda Bus Terminal and travels to many destinations in the Iya Valley. Additionally, there are a few buses that start at Oboke Bus Terminal and travel to Kazurabashi. As for the Miyoshi Municipal Bus, these buses are often seasonal and do not travel every day making it a little more difficult to navigate. 

The best resource for navigating local buses in the Iya Valley is by using the current bus timetable provided by Iya Time. There are currently no trains in the Iya Valley. 

If you decide to drive to Miyoshi and the Iya Valley area there is parking near most of the things to do in the Iya Valley or pull-off spots for quick views of the scenery. 

Iya Valley Day Trip Guided Tours

For those who don’t want to drive in the Iya Valley and are unsure about public transportation is the Oboke-Iya Sightseeing Tour . This 6-hour tour starts and ends at Awa-Ikeda Bus Terminal and costs around ¥9200 for adults and ¥8900 for children. 

The tour is given by an audio guide and will take you through the many Iya Valley sights as you drive by or stop along the way. The fare includes your transportation, entrance fees, a lunch made with local ingredients, an Oboke Gorge Sightseeing Cruise, and sightseeing stops to the most popular Iya Valley destinations including the vine bridges.

Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance on Japan Bus Online (English).

Taxi Services in the Iya Valley

Another option for getting around the Iya Valley without a car is to hire a taxi by the day. There are a few taxi services in the Iya Valley that offer metered service to and from specific points of interest or you can arrange a touring course for a flat rate. This is the most expensive option with rates starting at ¥4900/hour but it does allow you to have a private tour and more free time at each tourist destination. 

Taxi Service Companies in the Iya Valley:

• Iyakei Taxi
• Kazurabashi Taxi & Tours

Places to Stay in the Iya Valley

The Iya Valley has many unique places to stay including hotels, affordable guesthouses, traditional farmhouses, campsites, and mountain cabins. Here are some of our recommendations for places to stay in the Iya Valley.

YOKI Guesthouse

We stayed at Yoki Guesthouse during our first visit to the Iya Valley and found it to be the perfect place for our first time in the Iya Valley for a number of reasons. First, it is centrally located to many of the popular Iya Valley destinations making it easy to visit them and take day trips to nearby destinations. Second, it is an affordable place to stay and offers room and board options so you can add on breakfast and dinner. 

YOKI Guesthouse also has partnerships with some of the rafting and ziplining companies so arranging those activities is a breeze. Last, YOKI Guesthouse also has parking on-site although because of the remoteness of this area, you’ll find that most places to stay in the Iya Valley have parking available.

Location: 375-3 Nishiiyayamamura Ichiu, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0101, Japan // MAP

Kazurabashi Camp Village

If you want to go camping in the Iya Valley, Kazurabashi Camp Village is the closest campsite to some of the most popular vine bridges and many other Iya Valley attractions. It has campsites and cabins with shower facilities. Campsites are available for around ¥1,000/night while cabins are ¥5,200 and can accommodate four people.

Location: 233 Nishiiyayamamura Kanjo, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0102, Japan // MAP

For a truly unique experience, you can stay at Kouya , a renovated and preserved traditional home that is over 100 years old. Here you can truly connect with nature while enjoying the scenic area as well as local cuisine prepared over a traditional hearth. Kouya also offers traditional soba-making classes and other activities on-site. 

Location: 311 Higashiiyakubo, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0202, Japan // MAP

Hotel Kazurabashi

Hotel Kazurabashi is a beautiful hotel just minutes away from some of the vine bridges and other popular attractions. They have full room and board available for their guests as well as many other amenities including indoor and outdoor onsen, tea lounge, and souvenir shop. 

Location: 33-1 Nishiiyayamamura Zentoku, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0102, Japan // MAP

Hotel Iya Onsen

If you are looking for a luxurious place to stay in the Iya Valley check out Hotel Iya Onsen . This hotel is a short distance away from the Statue of the Peeing Boy and near other Iya Valley attractions. 

Like the other hotels, it also has its own indoor and outdoor onsen and even a new private cable car to get you to their onsen located by the Iya River. You can also get guest rooms with private open-air baths! With your room, I recommend adding on a dining plan option that features local cuisine kaiseki-style. 

Hotel Iya Onsen also offers its guests transportation accommodations for hotel guests to get to and from JR Oboke Station to the hotel. Arrangements must be made ahead of time.

Location : Matsumoto-367-28 Ikedacho Matsuo, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0165, Japan // MAP

Places to Eat in the Iya Valley

As you might have guessed based on its remote location, finding restaurants in the Iya Valley is not always simple. While there are some terrific restaurants to choose from, many of them are open at various hours and close early so you might arrive at a restaurant based on its Google hours only to find it closed for the day.

This happened to us on a number of occasions during our time in the Iya Valley but don’t let that discourage you from trying, especially for lunch! There are so many small, hospitable family-owned restaurants that are worth visiting in the Iya Valley.

You might also be surprised to find that while a konbini like 7-Eleven or Lawson is on nearly every corner in cities in Japan, the closest one you’ll find is in Oboke.

During our first trip to the Iya Valley, we relied on getting most of our meals at our guesthouse. The majority of accommodations in the Iya Valley have the option for adding half board (breakfast only) or full board (breakfast and dinner) making it easy to account for. 

The meals you will have at your accommodation will likely be full of local ingredients because the residents of the Iya Valley depend greatly on their agricultural heritage, hunting wild game, fishing for ayu (sweet fish) and amego (salmon trout), and even distilling their own sake and shochu. A meal at a guesthouse, ryokan, or minshuku in the Iya Valley truly brings a whole new meaning to “farm to table.” 

Restaurants in the Iya Valley

One of the most popular restaurants for lunch in the Iya Valley is Senkichi ! The lovely owners of Senkichi prepare the fresh soba noodles throughout the day and it is also a great place to try other Iya Valley specialties including iwa-dofu (stone tofu) and iya konnyaku (a sticky potato cake). 

Location: 323-3 Nishiiyayamamura Oinouchi, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0101, Japan // MAP

Nakatoyoya is a small cafe that serves a variety of comfort foods like omurice (omelet over rice), karaage (Japanese fried chicken), Japanese curry with choice of fried cutlet, hamburg steak, and chicken nanban (fried chicken with tartar sauce).

Location: 139-4 Okubo, Otoyo, Nagaoka District, Kochi 789-0248, Japan // MAP

Yanamoto is a local restaurant owned by the Yanamoto family who makes fresh soba, udon, and other traditional Iya Valley dishes.

Location: 345-4 Higashiiyakyojo, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0204, Japan // MAP

Kazurabashi-tei

Kazurabashi-tei is a small restaurant inside the Kazurabashi Yumebutai rest stop. It serves local cuisine including soba and udon. It’s a great spot to stop at in a pinch because their hours are usually always correct online!

Location : 345-1 Nishiiyayamamura Imakubo, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0102, Japan // MAP

Things to Do in the Iya Valley

Take a ride on the okuiya kanko shuyu monorail.

Currently, the Okuiya Kanko Shuyu Monorail is closed for maintenance.

The Okuiya Kanko Shuyu Monorail is a 5km path that takes you on a one-hour journey through the mountains and deep into the forest so you can experience the natural beauty of the Iya Valley and its wildlife. This is a great option if you are tired from other activities, don’t have time to hike, or simply just want to relax and enjoy nature. It is especially beautiful to visit during the autumn months when the fall foliage is at its peak but it’s terrific in the spring and summer too.

Location: Japan, 〒778-0201 Tokushima, Miyoshi, Higashiiyasugeoi, ２８ // MAP

Take in the Views of the Hinoji Valley

The scenic views of the Hinoji Valley from the Iya River Bend Observation Point are a quick stop on this Iya Valley guide. From this viewpoint, you can see the emerald-green waters of the Iya River in a V or U-shaped valley surrounded by stunning foliage. 

Again, the autumn months are the best time to take in the view here because the mountain turns fiercely red but when we visited in the summer the view was stunning too! It is worth a quick stop to check out this striking area before heading to your next destination.

Location: Japan, 〒778-0101 Tokushima, Miyoshi, Nishiiyayamamura Tanouchi, 国ヶ滝 // MAP , no parking available, pull-off spots are close by

Visit the Cheeky Statue of the Peeing Boy

Near the Iya River Bend Observation is the Statue of the Peeing Boy. The legend of this statue goes back to before its existence when it was said that travelers, local children, and adults would climb on the ledge as a dare or thrill and pee off the ledge to show their courage. 

I had heard about it prior to visiting but couldn’t believe it when I first saw the ledge because it is extremely narrow and one unsteady step could easily lead to your death! Honestly, just thinking about it again is dizzying. Apparently, the statue was placed there to deter more “pee offs” and tell this comical story of local lore. 

Location: Japan, 〒778-0165 Tokushima, Miyoshi, 池田町松尾 //   MAP , more accurate spot , no parking available, pull-off spots are close by

Walk Across the Infamous Bridges of the Iya Valley 

Perhaps the most notable thing to do in the Iya Valley is visit the infamous vine bridges . These vine bridges were originally created by members of the Heike Clan around 1180-1185 after they sought refuge in the valley after losing a war, a story very similar to the one we heard in Gokanosho . 

These bridges acted as a safe passageway for crossing the gorge while also allowing them to be cut down should a threat arise. At one point there were 13 bridges to visit but today only three remain. When you cross these vine bridges you’ll still feel them bend and sway deeply, but have no fear, they have since been reinforced with cables and are replaced every three years for safety.

Vine Bridges to Visit in the Iya Valley

• ¥550 adult, ¥350 child

Other Bridges to Visit in the Iya Valley

• Higashiiya Suspension Bridge : This suspension bridge offers beautiful views of the narrow Manpu Gorge and leads to Ryugugake Village. 

Take A Journey to the Nagaro Scarecrow Village

Nagaro is a unique, tiny town in the Iya Valley where dolls outnumber the people who live there. These dolls are created by Japanese artist Ayano Tsukimi who moved back to the village she grew up in once she found out that most people in the village had moved away or passed – in fact, less than 40 people now live in Nagoro.

After creating a Kakashi (scarecrow) that looked like her late father she had an epiphany – she could create life-size dolls modeled on former locals. She has now created over 350 doll citizens that can be found all over the town; outside and in buildings as well. While at first it may seem creepy to some, I found it incredibly charming and bittersweet. The dedication that Tsukimi has is inspiring.

Location: 629番地5 Higashiiyasugeoi, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0201, Japan // MAP

READ MORE: The Story of Nagaro Doll Village

Hike Mt. Tsurugi

Hiking Mt. Tsurugi was actually completely unplanned in our Iya Valley itinerary but I’m glad decided to make the trek because it ended up being one of the highlights of our trip. We happened to be driving through the mountains of the Iya Valley when we saw a chairlift from a distance going up a mountain path. We had some extra time so we decided to pull over and see where the lift led to.

At first, we thought the chair lift would take us all the way up to the top of Mount Tsurugi, but it only took us part of the way. Because we weren’t prepared to go hiking that day we didn’t have the right supplies but since the hike to the rest center was short (and after Logan spent some time trying to convince me) we decided to continue up the path. 

The hike to the rest center was only about 30-45 minutes one-way. The hike isn’t extremely difficult despite being named “Sword Mountain” and the view from the top is exceptional making it worth the pitstop!

Mt. Tsurugi Chair Lift Information

• Hours: 9am-4:30pm (summer hours start at 8am). Open from mid-April-November
• Cost: One-way – ¥1050 adult, ¥520 child, round-trip – ¥1900 adult, ¥900 child

Location: Higashiiyasugeoi, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0201, Japan // MAP

Shop at Kazurabashi Yumebutai

Kazurabashi Yumebutai is a rest stop next to the Iya River and the Iya Kazura Bridge that has tourist information inside and is also the perfect place to purchase some local souvenirs and traditional goods from the Iya Valley. Inside there is also Kazurabashi-tei, a restaurant serving local cuisine. 

Book A Soba Making Class

The Iya Valley has its own special kind of soba and you can learn how to make it at Tsuzuki Soyaten . You start by learning the traditional Higashi-Iya soba method which involves grinding your own flour with a stone mill. Traditional songs are sung during the process making it a unique cultural experience as well!

After you make your soba you’ll get to enjoy it alongside local, wild vegetables, tempura, and other small sides. Make sure to reserve in advance.

Location: 84-1 Higashiiyawakabayashi, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0204, Japan // MAP Cost: ~¥3500

Go Rafting or Canyoning on the Yoshino River

If you are a thrill seeker and are visiting the Iya Valley between March and November, cool off by going rafting or canyoning on the Yoshino River! These Class 3 & 4 rapids have been highly regarded by locals and tourists, even making them the home of the 2017 World Rafting Championship. Local guides and companies have experiences for beginners to those more advanced as well as half-day and full-day tours. 

Rafting and Canyoning Tour Companies

• Packraft Adventures : Offers half-day and full-day courses.
• Oboke Koboke New Yard Rafting : Offers morning and afternoon rafting courses.
• Amici Adventures : Offers a leisurely small boat cruise on the calm part of the river.
• Shikoku Lion Adventure : Offers short and long tours as well as rafting tours geared towards families and SUP tours. 

Take A Leisurely Boat Ride on the Oboke Gorge

If you want something a little more low-key than river rafting you can also take a 30-minute pleasure cruise on the Yoshino River. Tickets for the riverboat cruise can be purchased at the Oboke Gorge Center on the day of your ride. 

After purchasing your ticket you will receive a waist or regular life vest to wear during your ride then you’ll head off! As you begin the journey, your guide will provide you with details about the significance of Oboke Gorge (there are translations available in a number of different languages). 

You’ll see many stunning sites along the way including the emerald waters of the river and the beautiful cliffside edges of Oboke Gorge. There is also a lot of wildlife in this area so be on the lookout for a vast variety of birds, monkeys, and possibly even deer, ​​Japanese serow, or wild boar!

Hours: 9am-5pm (last departure 4:30pm) Cost : ¥1500 adult, ¥750 child 

Go Ziplining Across the Iya Valley 

Zipline across the Iya Valley with stunning scenic views! Most companies offer different courses including tree trekking journeys through the forest and ziplining courses where you can zipline across the Iya River or Oboke Gorge. 

A Few Zipline and Tree Trekking Companies:

• Forest Adventure : Offers tree trekking and zip lining including the longest zipline in the area!
• Amici Adventure : Offers tree trekking and bungee. 

Take A Dip in Hot Springs

What better way to wind down after outdoor adventures than by soaking in the Iya Valley’s hot springs? The Iya Valley has many hotels in the area that offer their scenic onsen to their guests but many have day passes for those who are not hotel guests. 

Onsen in the Iya Valley are available indoors and outdoors but my favorites are the ones that are outdoors facing the lush trees. 

Here are some places to enjoy hot springs in the Iya Valley:

• ¥1200 adult, ¥600 child
• 7:30am-6pm (last entry 5pm)
• ¥1700 adult, ¥900 child
• 10am-9pm (closed Tuesdays)
• ¥1000 adult, ¥500 child

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TOKUSHIMA Iya Valley The most secluded and spectacular gorges in Japan

• NEAR IYA VALLEY
• Destinations

The most secluded and spectacular gorges in Japan

The Iya Valley's location deep in the mountains of Shikoku has kept it far off the beaten path, rewarding those who come with unspoiled natural scenery, narrow river gorges, rustic vine bridges and relaxing hot springs.

• The unique vine bridges, one of Japan's Top 3 Unusual Bridges
• Scenic thatched homes of the Ochiai hamlet
• The iconic Peeing Boy statue standing high above the valley

How to Get There

Access Iya Valley by flying from Tokyo's Haneda and Narita airports to Kagawa's Takamatsu Airport and take a direct bus connection to the valley.

Several buses run between Hankyu Umeda Station in Osaka and the Awa-Ikeda Bus Terminal. Ideal for travelers on a budget, this route costs just under 5,000 yen for the four-hour trip. Around 5 buses per day run this route. Take a local bus from the Awa-Ikeda Bus Terminal to the Iya Valley area.

A mountain refuge

The Iya Valley is one of the most remote places in all of Japan. Its historical inaccessibility led it to become a hideaway in the late 12th century for members of the Heike (Taira) clan. They reportedly fled to Iya Valley after being defeated by the Genji (Minamoto) clan in the Genpei War, which paved the way for the first samurai government in Kamakura, near Tokyo.

The source of the Yoshino River

At Oboke Canyon you can cruise gently down the river on pleasure boats, admire the emerald color of the water and the steep, rocky cliffs towering above. In the warmer months, whitewater rafting further upstream is a popular pastime for those seeking a more thrilling adventure.

Iya's kazura-bashi or vine bridges are one of the most unique sights in the area and are one of three most unusual bridges in Japan. These suspension bridges were traditionally made by weaving together vines harvested from the mountains and served as important lifelines for people in this mountainous region.

Afraid of heights?

The Peeing Boy of Iya Gorge is another icon of the Iya area. This statue of a small boy standing and urinating at the edge of a 200-meter-high precipice.

Known as the Nana Magari (Seven Curves), this is regarded as the most dangerous spot in the Iya Valley, and local legend has it that the statue of the Peeing Boy was built in commemoration of travelers who would come here to urinate off the rock to show their bravery.

400-year old farmhouses

The settlement stretches across the slopes of a mountain in the centre of the East Iya Valley. The difference in elevation within the settlement is approximately 390 m and the settlement is formed on a steep slope. The old houses, stone walls piled up one by one and fields create a nostalgic original landscape of a mountain village. The area is registered as an important national preservation district because of its traditional thatched-roof farmhouses that are centuries old, as well as ancient walking paths.

Best enjoyed at a relaxed pace

The narrow mountain roads make for slow travel. Take your time and savor the relaxed pace of life here. There are several options available to visitors who want to stay overnight. You'll find various campgrounds and a restored 400-year-old farmhouse in the upper parts of the valley, while the hot spring resorts in Oboke and Iya offer an excellent way to unwind and savor the local cuisine.

Visit nearby Oboke and Koboke Canyons

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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Iya Valley | Tokushima Travel Guide

The Iya Valley region is a scenic area known for its dramatic mountain valleys and old vine bridges. Situated in the western part of Tokushima and nearly in the center of Shikoku, the Iya area is one of the large ‘hidden mountain regions’ in Japan. Although access has improved in recent years, the Iya Valley and the inner parts of Shikoku have historically been remote and difficult to reach.

In modern times, the Iya Valley has become an increasingly popular tourist destination. Deep in the bosom of Mt. Tsurugi, the second tallest mountain in Shikoku, the region is surrounded by the mountains of the Shikoku Mountain district. With a deep valley formed among the mountains cut through by the Iya-gawa river, a tributary of the Yoshino-gawa river.

The Vine Bridge

The vine bridge over the Iya-gawa river, called ‘Iya-no-Kazura-bashi’, is a 45 meter-long and 2 meter-wide suspension bridge with a height of 14 meters above water level. It is one of Japan’s 3 rare bridges and designated as a national important folkloric property. In order to keep the bridge safe to use, the bridge is rebuilt every three years.

There are some legends about why this bridge was made. One is by the famous monk Kobo-Daishi, the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism . When he visited the village, local people had a problem because it is very difficult to go to the other side of the river, so he created the bridge. Another story is related to the Taira clan .

The Taira were completely defeated by the Minamoto clan in the late 12th century, during the Gen-Pei war. It is said that some of the members of the Taira clan survived and started living in Iya, deep in the mountains to hide from the Minamoto clan. The Taira people made the bridge, but just in case they were attacked by Minamoto, the bridge was made in such a way that it can be cut down easily.

Oboke Gorge Cruise

The scenic Oboke Gorge is surrounded by rocks, crystalline schist from sandstone. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery from a sightseeing boat. Many rocks have special names, for example, one rock looks like a lion, so it is named ‘Lion Rock’. One rock’s tilt is different from the others, so it is named ‘Bigoted Rock’.

The cruise lasts about 30 minutes and costs 1,200 yen for adults and 600 yen from 3 years to elementary student age.

Chiiori Trust

The Oku-Iya area is nicknamed the Japanese Tibet because of its inaccessible location. In Oku-Iya, there is a 300-year-old folk house. American writer and Japanologist Alex Arthur Kerr bought the house in 1973. He restored the house to a liveable state, including re-thatching the kayabuki roof using traditional materials. The house was given the name Chiiori, or “House of the Flute”. The restoration of Chiiori was a project that was started by Kerr and others to preserve Japan’s vanishing arts, culture, and traditional lifestyle.

In 2007, Kerr decided to become more personally involved with Iya. He expanded and reorganized the board of directors of the project and closed the house for a few months for renovations. It reopened in November 2007. You can now stay at the house, or you can visit it by reservation. Be aware that there is no public transportation to Chiiori, so you will have to take a taxi from Oboke station.

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we create perfect Japan package tours including destinations like the Iya Valley. Check out our group tours and private tours , or contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Iya Valley Information

Access to Oboke station (25 minutes walk to the Oboke Gorge Cruise Terminal):

From Takamatsu, take JR Lines to Udatsu, then change the train to Oboke. (about 2 hours)

From Oboke station, you can take a bus to the Vine Bridge (30 minutes).

Iya Valley Travel Map

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Sea & Nature

Lose Yourself in the Rugged Beauty of the Iya Valley and Oboke Gorge

• DESTINATION NAME Tokushima
• Experiences
• LAST UPDATED 20 April, 2021

Legend has it that the Iya Valley, tucked deep into the heart of Tokushima Prefecture, was a place people went when they did not want to be found. So it was with the remnant warriors of the Taira clan, also known as the Heike, who were said to have fled here after their defeat by the Minamoto clan in the 12th century Genpei War. Surveying the rugged mountain peaks separated by deep and dangerous ravines, it wasn’t difficult to imagine why the Minamoto army would have ended their pursuit here and left the Heike for dead. Yet, the Heike survivors lived on, becoming the first inhabitants of this wild landscape.

The Iya River cuts a beautiful winding path through the valley, seen from an outlook above.

Exploring the Oboke Gorge and Iya Valley by Car

Even today, the Iya Valley remains one of the most remote places left in Japan. Exploring the valley on your own takes courage, fortitude, and, most importantly, a rental car. Winding my way along the nearly 100-year-old historic route 32, the original access road into the valley, I found the way narrow even by Japanese standards. In many places, two vehicles passing in opposite directions would be a physical impossibility. Yet, I drove for miles at a time, barely encountering another soul.

Even at the statue of the Peeing Boy overlook, an Iya Valley hotspot, no designated parking is needed, just a wide shoulder for a few cars to pull over and admire the view. And as you do, try not to think about the fact that the statue was added here in 1968 to deter real boys from standing precariously on the precipice to perform the act themselves.

If you possess an international driver’s license and nerves of steel, your fortitude will be rewarded by some of the most spectacular natural views this side of your computer screensaver. Don’t take your eyes off the road too long to admire the view; rest assured that if you need to find a place to pull over briefly to capture a breathtaking snapshot, you’ll find one along the mostly empty roads that snake high along the valley walls.

I entered the Iya Valley from the northwest, where convenient toll roads give you equally easy access from either Tokushima or Takamatsu cities in about an hour. This route takes you first along the Yoshino River through another of Setouchi’s natural wonders, the Oboke Gorge. The Yoshino sparkles with clean emerald-hued waters topped in some places with frothy whitecaps and is one of Japan’s premier rivers for whitewater rafting. In other areas, the river is so peaceful that visitors can take a short cruise to admire the valley’s geological wonders up close. Jagged rocks line the river’s banks, separating it from the evergreen forested mountains with the occasional spray of pink cherry blossoms peaking out on this early spring day.

Taking a break from driving, I strolled down the pedestrian walkway along the highway and caught sight of the red “Anpanman” character train of the Dosan Line crossing the green iron bridge over the valley. It’s an impossibly perfect scene until you remember you are in Setouchi, where impossibly beautiful things surround you wherever you go. Farther down the road, I pull over to enjoy the surreal sight of koinobori, kite-like streamers in the shape of carp strung across the gorge waving gently in the breeze.

From Oboke, a modern highway takes you through a long tunnel where you emerge in the western Iya Valley and seemingly into another time. Just a few minutes down the old highway, the 800-year-old Kazurabashi Bridge, one of the remaining original bridges to cross the valley, is a major tourist attraction. This suspension bridge was constructed from vines and further reconstructed every three years for safety reasons. The most recent reconstruction was completed a month before my visit, so despite my paralyzing fear of heights, I thought it might be fun to give it a go.

After paying the 550 yen admission fee, I discovered to my dismay that the gaps between the narrow planks making up the bridge were wider than the planks themselves, plenty wide enough to carelessly slip your foot or drop your phone through. Clinging to the side of the bridge for dear life, I edged my way slowly across, passed up by fearless children and octogenarians alike.

Crossing the Kazurabashi Bridge is not for the faint of heart.

Just a few minutes’ walk from the bridge, the 50-meter high Biwa Waterfall plunges into a blue-green pool of crystal clear water. Legend has it that the Heike warriors rested here after their defeat in the Genpei War, much like I rested here after the bruising of my ego while crossing Kazurabashi Bridge.

Few travelers will continue east from here. The roads get narrower and feistier, the land less developed. But I persisted, driving another 40-odd minutes to the hamlet of Ochiai, built in the traditional configuration along the steep mountainside. From bottom to top, the small village climbs almost 400 vertical feet. It is designated as a Nationally Important Preservation District in Japan. Within the village, you’ll find Nagaoka-ke Historic House, which is open to the public as an example of traditional thatched roof architecture. Hidden in a grove of ancient cedars, Sansho Shrine is an impressive wooden shrine where village festivals are celebrated twice per year.

Ochiai Village is built on a steep mountainside of the Iya Valley.

But the real reward in reaching Ochiai is spending the night here. Eight thatched-roof kominka houses have been refurbished in collaboration with Alex Kerr, a well-known figure in the restoration of historical Japanese homes around Japan. Each house is available to rent for individuals, families, or small groups and equipped with modern comforts, including climate control and state-of-the-art kitchens and baths. To wake in the morning to the view of the sun pouring over the rugged valley is a priceless experience, a crown jewel in a visitor’s trip to Japan.

But not for me this time. With the afternoon shadows growing longer, it was time for me to head back along the winding, narrow roads, out of the wilderness, back to the familiar. For a day, at least, I chose to lose myself in the beauty and grandeur of the Iya Valley, to explore a part of Japan that is even too remote for many Japanese people, to be rewarded with memories of its unparalleled natural landscapes and fresh mountain air.

How to Get to Oboke Gorge and the Iya Valley

Access the Iya Valley using a rental car, following Route 32 to Oboke before turning east on Route 45 into the western Iya Valley. From central Takamatsu or Tokushima cities, it will take you about an hour and 45 minutes to reach Oboke and a further 20 minutes to Kazurabashi Bridge or 50 minutes to Ochiai Village. If you come from Tokushima, resist the urge to cut through the mountain roads, which are less developed and challenging for drivers unfamiliar with driving in Japan.

To reach Iya, Shikoku from Tokyo, it may be easiest to take a domestic flight from Haneda to Tokushima Awaodori Airport, which takes about 90 minutes. From Kyoto and Osaka, take the Shinkansen bullet train to Okayama (about 60 to 90 minutes) and drive to Takamatsu (about 60 to 90 minutes).

For more detailed access information, please visit the Miyoshi City website .

Photographs and text by Todd Fong

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OBOKE IYA TOURIST NAVIGATION Access to Miyoshi City in Tokushima Tougenkyo-Iya(kominka houses)

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RELATED DESTINATION

It has lots of tourism resources including the Naruto Strait, which has one of the largest eddying currents in the world, and the Iya Valley, which captivates everyone who sees its overwhelming natural scenery. The traditional Awa Dance Festival, which teems with 1.3 million tourists, is a must-see.

Iya Valley: Getting there and around

How to travel to the iya valley.

The Iya Valley can be accessed via Awa-Ikeda and Oboke stations along the train line between Okayama and Kochi . Hourly JR Nampu limited express trains travel directly from Okayama (1.5 hours, about 4000 yen one way, how to get to Okayama ) and Kochi (1 hour, about 3000 yen one way). Alternatively, Awa-Ikeda is connected by JR limited express trains to Takamatsu (1 hour, about 3000 yen one way, one transfer required) and Tokushima (75 minutes, about 3000 yen one way, one train every 2 hours).

By highway bus

Several bus companies run multiple direct highway buses per day between Osaka (Shin-Osaka and Hankyu Umeda stations) and Awa-Ikeda Bus Terminal. The trip takes about four hours and costs 4750 yen. A round trip ticket is available for 8600 yen. Online reservations can be made via Japan Bus Online .

Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates .

Getting around

The Iya River flows from Mount Tsurugi down the Iya Valley until it joins the Yoshino River around Iya-Guchi Station. The valley is commonly divided into two areas, Nishi Iya (West Iya) and Oku Iya (Inner Iya, also known as Higashi Iya or East Iya). Nishi Iya is relatively well connected by buses from Awa-Ikeda and Oboke stations, as well as by a major bypass road from Oboke . Oku Iya, on the other hand, is difficult to explore by public transportation as bus service is very infrequent or non-existent.

Accordingly, a rental car is recommend for exploring the Iya Valley. Rental car outlets are available around Awa-Ikeda Station, Oboke, Takamatsu and Tokushima . Just be aware that the roads are very narrow, often barely wide enough for one car, and there are frequent blind curves that make driving both hazardous and slow.

Buses operate from Awa-Ikeda and Oboke stations to the Iya Kazurabashi (some via Iya Onsen) and Kubo. At Kubo you can transfer to another bus further into the valley. Buses go as far as Mount Tsurugi only on weekends and during peak seasons outside of winter.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Shikoku kotsu, miyoshi city, hotels around iya valley.

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Kochi Sightseeing Tour to Iya Valley

A nice visit to the lush and off-beaten-track Iya valley, adventurous trekking through Iya Kazurabashi mountain vines above Yoshino River or hop on a river to enjoy the spectacular features of Oboke Koboke Gorge. They are the most splendid natural highlights in our best Kochi shore excursion.

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General Information

Tour Code: Duration: 7 hours Start/End: Kochi port/Kochi port Highlights: Iya Valley, Iya Kazurabashi Bridge, Biwa Waterfall, Oboke Koboke Gorge Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)

Full Itinerary

Upon arrival, our local guide and driver will meet you at the port and we take a nice drive through the great view of Tougenkyo-Iya to the first spot in your Kochi day tour from cruise port – Iya Valley . As home to steep mountain slopes and deep rocky gorges, the Iya Valley covers the picturesque sight by dreaming misty fog.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get the answers you seek about iya and oboke.

Many questions can be answered just by looking at the appropriate part of this website. And please realize that on most pages you usually need to open the Map & Listings part of any page to find more specific information. This is especially true for the Transport Page if looking for detailed info about using public buses, for taxi info, for driving info, and for traveling to/from Miyoshi and the Iya Valley from elsewhere in Japan. Also, the Facts & Services Page has many details regarding weather, emergencies, exchanging money, and lots of other useful stuff. 

Seasonal Travel Questions

What is the best time of year to visit.

This depends on what you consider to be good. As far as weather, we try to explain the "best" times here .

But every time of year has other great things on offer besides weather, including festivals & events , a variety of seasonal foods , and natural phenomenon (like autumn leaves, summer fireflies, star gazing, and unkai & kiryu ).

When is the rainy season, and when is it not rainy?

Japan doesn't have a specific dry season, so rain can happen at any time, with rain storms lasting about a day or two, usually once or twice a week throughout the year. But it can also be common to not have any rain for 2 weeks or more, particularly in May, early June, August, or just about any other month.

The so-called "rainy season" when rain is most likely (when there is maybe only one or two clear days per week) would be from mid/late June to about mid July, but every year is slightly different*, and often at this time it isn't heavy storms, mainly just on and off light rain and cloudy. (*in 2021 the rainy season began in mid-May , a month earlier than usual and the earliest in recorded history).

Also, rain sometimes happens for extended periods of several days in a row in early September, but again, every year is different. 

Typhoons (hurricanes) can occur between late July to early November and the Iya Valley area will usually have 2 or 3 typhoons (at least) per year. You should not try traveling much during a typhoon, and roads in Iya often close when happening. 

You can find more weather, typhoon, and seasonal condition info here .

In winter, is there anything to consider?

Winter is mainly from early December to late March. It is cold and a bit grey, and snow is possible, especially in Oku-Iya. The main roads are usually cleared for driving (see the next question below), but mountain passes will not be plowed, so roads going over mountain passes are usually closed. 

Also, some places have limited opening schedules in winter, and many places close completely for the season, including all rafting and water sports, mountain hiking and camping facilities, and many places in Oku-Iya (including historic houses, some places to stay, the mountain monorail, and the Double Vine Bridges). Seasonal buses to the deepest points in Oku-Iya also do not operate in winter.  

Does a car need snow tires for driving in winter?

If snow occurs, the main road through the valley is usually plowed and/or salted between Oboke and as far as Nagoro (Scarecrow Village), though the farther you go in the valley, the more chance that there will be still uncleared snow if it does happen to snow the day or so before you go. So if just going to main sights like the Iya-no-Kazurabashi or a Nishi-Iya hotel, then snow tires (or 4WD or chains) are probably not necessary, but having them would be wise if planning to head into Oku-Iya.

Do realize that the main access route into Iya of Rt45  between Oboke and central Nishi-Iya goes up and over a mountain (and through a long tunnel at the top) and this road can often have some ice at night or early morning and/or it can be rather troublesome if it is currently snowing. The hill here up/down is steep and curvy, but effort is made to always keep Rt45  open in winter.

Most years, for about 95% of the winter the main roads have no trouble with snow, with heavy snow not very common for much of Iya, especially in lower elevation areas like along the main road in Nishi-Iya and most of Oku-Iya, but every year is different and unpredictable. Some years there can be lots of snow, other years (especially with global warming) there will be none. There has also been years when heavy snowstorms happen in November and April as well.

Usually any snow that does happen will melt within a day or so along the main road regardless of plowing, but on roads going up into the hillside villages (as you gain elevation) the depth of snow will increase and they may not be plowed. Also, the mountain pass roads in Oku-Iya are not plowed and will often be closed, including the main road from Nagoro Scarecrow Village and beyond.

Having snow tires, four-wheel-drive, or just a set of tire chains  would be advisable and give reassurance, especially if driving much into Oku-Iya. If renting a car, maybe ask about getting a set of tire chains just in case, and be sure to understand how to install them. 

**But if you have no experience with driving on snow or ice, then the cruvy, steep, and often one-laned cliff-side roads of Iya are NOT the place to learn!!

Transportation Questions

How do i get to the iya valley from kyoto, osaka, or other parts of japan.

The easiest and most common way to reach the Iya Valley from elsewhere is via train to JR Oboke Station. Limited Express trains go to/from here about once an hour and most local buses head out from here.

The nearest airport would be either at Takamatsu (north of Iya) or Kochi (south of Iya), each about 1.5 hours to the area.  

We give full details of various travel methods to many places around Japan (including Kyoto, Osaka, Okayama, Tokyo, and all points in Shikoku) on our Transport Page, including via bus, train, car, airplane, and even ferry.  Check under Travel To and From Miyoshi  and use the filters on the map to choose your method and location!

Can I explore the Iya Valley without a car?

Although having a car can be great for getting around the Iya Valley, some may not feel too confident with driving on the narrow, curvy and often one-laned roads. Several other transport options are available.

Most people enter the area by train via JR Oboke Station. From here you can take a public bus into the valley, hire a taxi, have your pre-arranged tour or taxi meet you, or have your accommodation pick you up if arranged beforehand (some hotels offer their own shuttle buses, and some guest houses may also do pick ups... but not all).

See the questions below for more specific details about local transport options and how to utilize them.

How can I explore the Iya Valley by public bus?

Using public buses to explore the area is possible if just looking to visit some of the main sights, but its not overly convenient and can be a bit time consuming, so try to make a plan.

Buses are not that frequent, going about once every hour or two within Nishi-Iya and Oboke, and even less often for deeper into the valley to Oku-Iya , so giving yourself enough time is important. And some sights (particularly hillside villages and historic houses) are not along the main road and would require a good bit of walking. Buses into Iyakei Gorge  are also just a few times per day, so it could be a nice experience to walk one way from Central Nishi-Iya, either to or from the Peeing Boy Statue.

Also, buses to the deeper points in Oku-Iya are operated by a different bus company (these are Local Municipal Buses), so it is necessary to transfer along the way (but the times are arranged for a convenient transfer). And the final two points out in Oku-Iya (Double Vine Bridges and Mt Tsurugi) are seasonal stops, mainly on weekends and only everyday during certain times of year.

We give full details about using the public buses on the Transport Page under Local Travel by Bus , as well as a full breakdown of bus timetables and seasonal buses. However, due to the difficulty and limited access of using buses, in order to properly encounter the Iya Valley, we really reccommend either using a rental car or using a private taxi tour. 

Can I easily get a taxi from Oboke (or other) train station?

Oboke Station  may have a waiting available taxi, but this is certainly not guarenteed. It would be best to contact a taxi company at least the day before (or sooner) to be sure one is there for pick up,  especially if coming late in the day. If coming on a weekend or holiday you really should contact as far in advance as possible.

Awa-Ikeda Station  has a much better chance of taxis being available on arrival at most times, but contacting one beforehand could also be helpful.

For other train stations,  especially one that is for local trains only, there are usually no waiting taxis ever, so you must contact in advance. 

We have a list of the local taxi companies on the Transport Page under Local Travel by Taxi.

Are there any group bus tours to the Iya Valley I can join?

The only group bus tour you can openly join goes once a day (at limited times of the year) on a route to some of the main sights of Nishi-Iya and Oboke, including the Peeing Boy Statue, Kazurabashi Vine Bridge, and Oboke Boat Cruise. This bus starts and ends from the Miyoshi Bus Terminal in Ikeda town. The tour takes about 6 hours with a commentary that is only in Japanese (but anyone is OK to join). 

Its a good deal if alone or maybe a couple and if you stay in Ikeda, but a 3 or 4 hour taxi tour to/from Oboke goes to all the same sights and is way more flexible. 

This seasonal tour operates April to November mainly on weekends, holidays, and daily during certain times of the year. Tickets can be bought up to 3 months in advance. More info can be found at the Shikoku Kotsu Bus Company here , and their English ticket reservation service can be found here .  

How can I get a private tour of the Iya Valley?

All local taxi companies can be hired for multi-hour tours of the area. (see Local Travel by Taxi  for listings) To see just the main sights of Oboke and Nishi-Iya, it takes about 2 to 4 hours, but if looking to explore secluded points in Oku-Iya, it would require 5 to 7 hours. However, few taxi drivers speak any English, and those that may don't really speak all that much. 

For a private tour with an actual English speaking guide, you should check out Iya Valley Tours . They can arrange custom tours and give an in-depth and rewarding experience.

The local taxi drivers know the area well and all are reccommended, but we do not reccommend using a taxi and/or guide that is not locally based. Outside operators do not usually understand details about sporadic road closures, can not give local insights, don't personally know the local people, and often give incorrect explanations that are more based on here-say than facts.

Can I rent a car in the Iya Valley area?

There are no major car rental chains in Iya or the Miyoshi area. Only large cities and airports in Shikoku (Takamatsu, Tokushima, Kochi, Matsuyama, etc) have major rental agencies.

However, there are a few local car rental agencies. The Mannaka Service Area in Oboke has a couple cars available, and a few small agencies also operate in and around Ikeda. Check the Local Travel by Car & Bike  section on the Transport Page to see a listing of all area car rental companies. 

What should I know about driving in the Iya Valley?

We give detailed and specific road driving information about each area on the Transport Page under Local Travel by Car & Bicycle  including safety tips, road closure info, and gasoline station info.

Please realize, Iya's roads are infamous for being curvy, steep,  and often on the edge of steep cliffs  (but there are guard rails... usually ). Almost every road (except for parts of the main road through of the valley) is entirely one-laned , and even the main road is often one-laned in the Oku-Iya area. Side roads going up into villages, aside from all being one-laned, are also often crumbling and rough .

For many people who are just interested in visiting the main Kazurabashi Vine Bridge, its no problem since from Oboke to the Kazurabashi the main road (Rt45 from Oboke to Central Nishi-Iya and then Rt32 onwards to the Kazurabashi) is entirely two-laned, fairly wide, and well paved (but it is rather curvy and sometimes steep).

But beyond the Kazurabashi going into Oku-Iya the main road becomes occassionally one-laned (about 25% of the time) until Ochiai, and then beyond Ochiai its about 80% one-laned on to Nagoro Scarecrow Village. Beyond Nagoro to Mt Tsurugi its entirely one-laned. Also, the road (Rt32) through Iyakei Gorge  in Nishi-Iya is about 90% one laned and very curvy, but the cliffside views are pretty spectacular.

When driving on a one-laned road there are usually large circular mirrors on the blind curves  to see if something is coming at you. Drive with caution and always watch the road. Also, there is usually no sidewalk or shoulder on the road, so always be alert for people or bicycles. If you come head-to-head with another car on a one-laned section, it is almost always better for someone to reverse to a wider point than to try to squeeze past eachother (however, only locals realize this, and out-of-town visitors usually do not).

Also, if there is a severe storm or typhoon, then many roads will often close , with either limited or no detours possible. 

For details on winter driving , see the question above under Seasonal Travel.

If you are not a confident driver, or have little experience with driving on the left side of the road, then Iya is probably not the best place to learn. Consider taking a bus or hiring a taxi instead.

Again, we give detailed and specific road driving information about each area on the Transport Page under Local Travel by Car & Bicycle  including safety tips, road closure info, and gasoline station info.

Similar local driving information can also be found on the Map & Listing  of each Area Page:

• Nishi-Iya & Iyakei  page, 
• Oku-Iya  page, 
• Oboke & Koboke  page, 
• Ikeda & North  page

Communication Questions

I want to contact (someplace) but their webisite is only in japanese, can you help me.

Being that this is the deep Japanese countryside and in many ways stuck in a time-warp, many places don't offer English websites (or simply no website at all) and if you call on the phone they only speak Japanese.

But sorry, we can not help you as an interpretor or make reservations for you.  If you are hiring a guide then perhaps they can help (see question below), but IyaTime is not a booking or translation website.

How can I find an English speaking guide or interpretor?

For English speaking local guide service you should contact Iya Valley Tours . Even though they offer Iya's only English speaking guides, their English is suprisingly good and they know the valley and its people far, far better than any guides based outside of the Iya Valley (their guides often advise IyaTime for our information). They can also help arrange activities, transportation, and other plans for your stay in Iya.

Also, a few guesthouses have owners that speak some English (or use translation smartphone apps) who can possibly go with you to tour some sights on request. You should ask directly if this is possible when trying to reserve.

Some taxi companies also have a couple drivers that may speak a bit of English (but not really guide level), but if hiring a taxi for a tour they will usually give you English brochures or play recorded English messages that explain things.

And if simply looking for a Japanese-English interpretor (for research, journalism, etc), again, try contacting Iya Valley Tours about your needs. Their main website is here .

Do restaurants in Iya or Oboke have English menus?

Many (but not all) restaurants will have English menus, however, like elsewhere in Japan, the English can often be a little off. But the friendly people of Iya will do their best to make you satisfied. But please, try not to be too picky with what you request, and simply try to enjoy things the way the locals do.

Other Questions

Is visiting the iya valley "worth it".

Certainly the answer to this depends on the person, but there is no doubt, if looking for one of the biggest possible contrasts to the high-tech, over-crowded, hyper-developed, and generally mind-boggling insanity of Tokyo, then the Iya Valley is it.

For a typical visitor to Japan who is staying one or two weeks in the country, by seeing and experiencing only the cities it does not give a proper impression of Japan. Aside from the physical landscapes and natural beauty, the people, food, and culture of the countryside are quite different. And though the majority Japanese may live in urban areas nowadays, most city residents still have their roots in the countryside, and any Japanese person will attest that the people who live there have distinctly different personalities and values. 

Some visitors to Japan may fulfill a "countryside experience" by staying in an onsen hotspring town or stopping by a place like Shirakawa, and though wonderful in their own way, such popular spots do not represent true countryside life due to the number of visitors they recieve and how most things are geared towards tourism.

On the other hand, many countryside places can be rather undeveloped for visitors, especially people from abroad who don't speak the language and are experiencing Japan for the first time. And some places don't really have all that interesting things to offer, making the challenge of visiting there indeed, not really "worth it".

But in regards to all these considerations, the Iya Valley is different. For Japan, its exteremely countryside, in many ways a superlative. Its somewhat developed but certainly not "touristy" and definately not crowded. Its full of natural splendor and rugged beauty with inviting residents who aren't specifically focused on tourism. And as far as interesting things on offer, well it definately boasts sights, experiences, tastes, and a lifestyle that are not only unique but often found nowhere else.

So as far as "worth it", well, while its not the easiest place to get to, perhaps the isolation is what makes the Iya Valley unlike anywhere in Japan and also what makes it somewhere you won't forget.

How long should I stay in the Iya Valley? Is one day enough to see everything?

One full day is usually enough for seeing the main sights and a few smaller yet interesing ones, but it would require either having a car or hiring a taxi. But you will not get to spend a great deal of time at the sights if trying to pack it all into one day, so it can be much better to spread out your visit to two or more days, allowing you to get a proper feel of the remote enviroment and the unique living culture.  Also, using only a bus to explore the area will severely limit what you can see or do, particularly in just a day.

Also, many people try to "do" Iya in a day trip without staying the night, with coming to and from an accommodation somewhere else like in Ikeda, Takamatsu, or even Okayama. Though this is physically possible, many people don't realize the time and effort required, and how they will probably be already run-down (and still maybe jet-lagged) from the previous part of their Japan trip. So it is really reccommended that you stay the night locally to best enjoy your time. 

For many people, their stay in the Iya Valley is the highlight of their trip since it is such a relaxing contrast to the high-density cities of the rest of Japan or the massive hotspring "onsen towns" which are often overdeveloped and not very personable. (Iya's hotspring hotels, guesthouses, and traditional farmhouse stays are noted for their beautiful views, tranquil natural atmosphere, and warm hospitality).

The Iya Valley seems big, where is the best area to stay for exploring the area?

The main areas to stay would be in Central Nishi-Iya  or in the nearby  Kazurabashi Area  (around the main Vine Bridge). Its fairly easy to access, about a 15-20 minute drive to these areas from Oboke Station, and buses go between here and the station about once every hour or two, with most places to stay being located close to a bus stop. 

However, though these parts of Nishi-Iya  have a large selection of offerings including hotspring hotels, boutique guesthouses, and even camping, it accordingly gets more visitors, so it doesn't feel as isolated as deeper in the valley (which can be both good and bad depending on the person). Also, while this section is centrally located for exploring the valley, if you do not have a car then going anywhere can be a challenge with using only a bus, so many visitors staying here choose to hire a taxi for sightseeing, particularly for the sights in Oku-Iya (only 4 buses per day go to Oku-Iya, and many sights are not next to a bus stop).

Conversely, staying in Oku-Iya  usually gives a more authentic, country-side feeling that is uniquely Iya, and best enjoyed when staying more than just one night. However places to stay in Oku-Iya can be spread far apart (so its great if looking for some nature-enclosed isolation), and most are traditional farmhouses which may not be high-class enough for "delicate" visitors (though there is one hotspring hotel way out here). Also, direct access by bus to these places can be difficult and/or require lots of walking, so its best to either have a car, hire a taxi, or connect directly with the accommodation to see if they can pick you up from the closest bus stop. But most visitors certainly agree, the seclusion of Iya and its countryside lifestyle are part of its charm, so the effort is worth it.

As for other parts of Miyoshi, the Oboke & Koboke   area also has a variety of accommodation options including hotspring hotels and farmhouse stays, and is convenient for rafting and going to/from the train station, but realize that you are not actually in Iya here, so you will need to travel via car, taxi, or bus to see Iya's sights, and most accommodations here are in the opposite direction of the valley, so this will add to travel time (on top of the time it takes to get to Iya from Oboke Station) of anywhere from 5 to 45 extra minutes.

Up north in Ikeda  there are also several accommodations choices, including many budget ones, but travelling to Iya is pretty far from here, about 45 minutes to one hour+ just to get to the start of the Iya Valley, so being based here isn't so optimal without your own car (and if you do have a car, then you'll be wondering why you didn't stay closer to the valley since you're driving the distance anyway). Also, though the town has its own sights, its a pretty typical small town for the most part and can feel a bit dull to some people, and for sure, it is rather different than Iya's natural splendor.

Is it easy to explore the Iya Valley on my own, or should I hire a guide?

We try hard to give helpful information on the IyaTime website for knowing how to get around in the Iya Valley on your own, but we can not give anywhere near the amount insight that a local guide can provide.

If you are just interested in visiting the main sights and having a quaint bit of discovery, then going on your own would be just fine (but please read our info about using buses  and/or driving  to know how to get around safely and convienently). 

But do realize that the Iya people don't speak much if any English, so you will have only limited encounters and interaction if you can not speak Japanese. An English speaking local guide can certainly bridge this gap while also giving first-hand explanations about Iya's dynamic history, rich culture, and unique lifestye as they take you places you may not find on your own.

Please also understand that a guide not based in the area will not have as much connection or knowledge as one that is based locally, so we suggest contacting Iya Valley Tours  if seeking an English speaking local guide.

Do places in the Iya Valley offer vegetarian or vegan food?

Getting vegetarian food in the Iya Valley area or anywhere in Japan can be a challenge because of the common use of dried fish in making broth ( "dashi" ) that is used for the base of many Japanese meals.

So while Iya soba noodles are indeed vegan, the soup they are served with probably isn't. The same can probably be said for many other dishes, but on request things can (maybe) be altered. Do realize though that Japanese people generally are not vegetarian or ever too particular with their food requests, so at small restaurants, the more picky that you are, then the more bothered you will make the staff and cook, and the more time it will probably take.

Many hotels and guesthouses do understand this, so when making a reservation, try asking for vegetarian if meals are included in your stay (and try to state whether fish-based dashi broth is OK since its so common). And when you check in, follow up on making sure your request was understood. We do not reccommend making your vegetarian request at the time of being served a meal at an accommodation, because this will be both a nuisance and challenge for the staff, and it will also delay and/or limit your meal. So asking such a request is best to do as far in advance as possible.

How / where can I go mountain hiking in the Iya Valley?

The biggest mountains with the most extensive network of trails would be located at the deepest point in the Iya Valley. Here you can find Iya's highest mountain of Mt Tsurugi  (at 1955m, its also the 2nd highest in all of western Japan) as well as several other mountains  that are connected by expansive ridgeline trails.

The main hiking trailhead and starting point would be the small hamlet of Minokoshi, which is the final settlement in the valley and at the base of Mt Tsurugi. Seasonal buses go to here through the valley as well as from a couple other points from the opposite direction (check the Mt Tsurugi page for access details).

There are many other trailheads and mountains with beautiful views located not as deep in the valley, but access may be a little tough and/or require extra hiking if you don't have a car.  Check our Hiking Portal page for more info.

Are there any dangerous wild animals in Iya?

Since this is a mountainous area full of forests, there are lots of wild animals around, but you are unlikely to have trouble with them, even when hiking. 

But perhaps what you should be most aware of are poisonous snakes  and hornets . We give full details on all of Iya's dangerous animals here  and what to do if you encounter one. 

Is it better to travel in the Iya Valley by bus, taxi, tour, or rental car?

The Iya Valley and Oboke Gorge areas are quite big, so if you are only looking to see some of the main sights, then it is possible to get around by public bus. However if you are looking to go deeper into the valley or to see sights that are not on the main road (many great places are higher up in the hillside villages), then using buses can be either very inconvenient or even impossible.

Having your own car is perhaps the best option, but for many people, the curvy, steep, and often one-laned roads of Iya are not the easiest to drive upon. So using a taxi or private tour may be preferrable.

We try to detail all these vehicle options above in Transportation Questions . 

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Got a question? Check our FAQs page for some answers.

Full-day Kotobus Iya Valley Tour from Osaka

• Transportation's fee of Shinkansen and local train from Osaka to Takamatsu (round trip)
• Transportation's fee of Koto bus between Takamatsu and Iya area
• English Speaking Guide from Osaka
• Entry/Admission - Arde Shinosaka
• Admission fee (Iya Kazurabashi :500JPY/pax, River cruise :1200JPY/pax)
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Entry/Admission - Kazurabashi Yumebutai
• Entry/Admission - Michi-no-Eki Oboke
• Shin-Osaka Station, 5 Chome-16 Nishinakajima, Yodogawa Ward, Osaka 532-0011, Japan Shin-Osaka Station Shinkansen Central Exit Ticket Gate(中央口改札）
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• You'll start at Shin-Osaka Station 5 Chome-16 Nishinakajima, Yodogawa Ward, Osaka 532-0011, Japan Shin-Osaka Station Shinkansen Central Exit Ticket Gate(中央口改札） See address & details
• 1 Arde Shinosaka Stop: 5 hours - Admission included See details
• 2 Takamatsu Stop: 7 hours See details
• 3 Kazurabashi Yumebutai Stop: 60 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 4 Oboke Koboke Stop: 60 minutes See details
• 5 Michi-no-Eki Oboke Stop: 60 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• nohjt 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Hiroshima is beautiful! Our guide was amazing. She was very enthusiastic and proud of her heritage. Even though the group was big, she attended to everyone's needs and spent time getting to know us. The only critique I have is that the order confirmation emails don't contain the departure location and time. We almost missed out on this great experience, but we are lucky to have been called to help us get to the train in time. Read more Written April 21, 2024
• Jose F 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Japan 2024 We had a great time. Kako was an awesome tour guide. She was very knowledgeable and friendly. She was able to guide us through the day and even fit in sometime for us to shop as well Read more Written April 5, 2024
• andykristiekappes 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Day Yet: Miyajima Bottom Line: Get to Miyajima! We book a private tour for flexibility with kids (5, 8, 8, 16). That’s exactly what we needed on this trip. Our Princess ship didn’t dock at the common Sea Port, but at a large ship international terminal west of the port. Our guide, Joe (Masahiko), was outstanding in communicating via WhatsApp before arrival. We figured out where we were and adjusted the plan to meet as close as possible, which was at Itsukaichi Station. It was just a 5 min taxi from the ship. Joe found us, got us our train tickets for the short ride, then got our ferry tickets to Miyajima. Wow! You have to get to Miyajima. It has everything: the gate in the water, the shrine, pagoda, beach, shopping, food, deer, and cherry blossoms (early April). Joe taught us about the history, culture, and customs as we walked. We bowed before the gate, didn’t walk down the middle as that’s where the deities walk, and washed our mouth with water at the shrine. He booked us a lunch reservation and sat with us to ensure my niece with Celiac got gluten free food. The chef/owner was so kind and grateful and went out of his way to speak English to us. We did all we could with trying to reply in Japanese to show our appreciation. We quickly realized we didn’t want to leave and Joe was so accommodating. We decided not to go to the Peace Park and just spent the day at Miyajima. Joe showed us the kids shop and a place for engraved chopsticks. We quickly ran out of time as we had to get back on the ship and will need to return. Joe then helped us back on the ferry, got us train tickets and rode with us back, then talked to the taxi drivers to ensure we made it back. Joe, thank you for a great day in Miyajima! Read more Written April 2, 2024
• H3864FZpaulm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful trip with guide Joe in Hiroshima. We had a wonderful tour today with Joe from HIS as our guide for our group of 8. He contacted us beforehand to check what we wanted to see and do in Hiroshima. He has a wealth of knowledge about the peace museum and bomb site. He was also excellent at the shrine on Miyajima explaining all the rituals. Would highly recommend his tour. Read more Written March 29, 2024
• anmariel2024 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Hiroshima tour The peace museum was such a moving place to visit. The tour overall was good. We had to wait for latecomers that advised they would be late but still didn’t arrive. This then put us back time. Tour leader okay but didn’t point out places of interest along the way. Read more Written March 22, 2024
• Navigate567085 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour Well organised and interesting tour. Guide was well informed and fun! Could maybe have done with more time in Museum but there was a lot to fit in. Miyajima was amazing and the weather was beautiful and views stunning. Read more Written March 17, 2024
• glee55 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent day tour This was an excellent tour of the Hiroshima pease memorial and Miyajima island. Okonomi lunch has something different. Our tour guided Azusa was knowledgable and also very funny - and very diligent in making sure the group was kept together and in getting the bus back in time for some of the groups return trips. Read more Written January 20, 2024
• rayd436 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Give us Tom or give us death!! Well there really are no words that could do justice to such a great experience. All because of the tour guide-Tom. To say he knocked it out of the park would be such an underwhelming way of describing our experience it's almost an insult. Tom was so knowledgeable about all aspects of the trip, bus routes, local culture, food, traditions...I could go on. At the end when parting ways both my wife and I had tears in our eyes. If you can request a specific guide Tom's the one for you and this trip was made a significant positive lifetime memory because of him. Read more Written January 9, 2024
• 218ellah 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Happy little tourist This was an excellent walking tour, everything was so close together when walking, so don’t stress if you think it is ages to walk. The tour guide had so much knowledge and stories about all the sites, was so nice for someone that isn’t massive into history in the tour group. Loved it and so glad I did this tour. Read more Written January 5, 2024
• Tavis L 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent one day tour The trip was well organized, and the experience of visiting the Hiroshima atomic bomb site was deeply moving. The tour guide, a female Japanese, was awesome. She not only provided insightful information about the history and impact of the atomic bomb, but also spoke English fluently. Her ability to communicate effectively in English made the tour even more meaningful and accessible to international visitors. The driver was polite too. Additionally, the tour guide had a great sense of humor, adding a touch of lightheartedness to an otherwise emotionally heavy experience. Her funny anecdotes and light-hearted moments made the tour both informative and enjoyable. Overall, my experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima was excellent. I highly recommend visiting these places, particularly with a knowledgeable and entertaining tour guide like the one I had. The trip provided a valuable educational and cultural experience, and I left with a deeper understanding of the impact of the atomic bomb and the resilience of the people of Hiroshima. Read more Written December 5, 2023
• vickicork 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Nice convenient tour Very nice way to see Hiroshima . We took the train to Hiroshima from Kyoto which was 2 hours , tour starts at 10 am from Hiroshima station itself . They said to wait at the exit so I walked out of station and waited there but no one showed for 5-10 minute and then everyone came with guide from inside station so I think if there was one negative it is there should be better instructions exactly on where to meet guide. The tour itself was very nice , beats trying to navigate Hiroshima on your own . The tour guide Kumiko was excellent , really enjoyed seeing the Peace museum , Hiroshima dome and then going over to Miyajima island , we left early back from Miyajima as we wanted to take the train we had already reserved back to Kyoto at 5.40 pm but really the tour reaches back at about 6 pm to the station again . Miyajima island too is very nice and if there was another thing I would suggest is some instructions on what to see there like we were given tickets to go inside shrine but not really what to do in Miyajima . Read more Written December 2, 2023
• V7977GXandrewl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Easy and quick way to Miyajima Island from Hiroshima Easy way to get to Miyajima Island but somehow the option has dropped off google maps. We went one way as we wanted to return after the last boat so came home the public ferry and JR train route. Thought price was reasonble considering the time saving and convenience. Also great to get views from the river of the dome and commentary on the way to the island. Read more Written November 29, 2023
• 599lanan 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent! We took the afternoon tour on 11/16/2023. The tour was very good and very well organized. Our guide was very knowledgeadle about Japan culture and history and provided many interesting facts and information on various aspects of life in Japan, as well as religion, making this tour very informative, which was amazing. We had 2 stops to see 2 temples, one with the biggest bronze statue of Budda, and the deers in the park were adorable, all around and very friendly. We got to feed them and they bowed as we did. It was an amazing experience. We also had enough time at each stop to take photos. This was one of the best tours we took. I would highly recommend it. Read more Written November 25, 2023
• Maps15060702891 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Hiroshima and Miyajima, Japan Well organized. A fantastic guide including lunch, a visit to the Memorial museum in Hiroshima and to the beautiful island of Miyajima. Memories to last a lifetime Read more Written November 17, 2023
• J1171ZEcandicel 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend. Great all round experience Excellent tour. Guide and driver were professional and friendly. Packed a lot in to one day and all other costs of the day were included which made things easy. Read more Written November 15, 2023

More to explore in Osaka

Full-day Kotobus Iya Valley Tour from Osaka provided by H.I.S.Co., Ltd.