Family Adventure on Shikoku Island: Exploring Japan's Hidden Gem

Swinging into History: A Day in Iya Valley

Today was nothing short of an adventure, a true immersion into the heart of Shikoku's Iya Valley. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Bielefeld, I felt a world away as we navigated ancient vine bridges and soaked in the untouched beauty of this remote region. It was a day filled with unexpected thrills, cultural discoveries, and the kind of family bonding that makes travel so incredibly rewarding.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Amekaze Shokudo. The restaurant had delightful dishes and stunning views of rice fields. With Maximilian and Elena eager to start our adventure, we enjoyed a mix of traditional Japanese and Western-style breakfast. Fuelled up, we set off for the famed Vine Bridge in the Iya Valley.


Explore the enchanting Vine Bridge in the Iya Valley, a stunning testament to Japan's natural beauty and traditional craftsmanship.

The drive itself was an experience. The roads twisted and turned, offering glimpses of the dramatic mountain scenery that defines the Iya Valley. It's easy to see why this area has historically been a hideout for defeated samurai warriors; its remoteness is both beautiful and isolating. As we drove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the past, imagining the Heike clan seeking refuge here after their battles.

Finally, we arrived at the Vine Bridge. Known locally as Iya Kazura-Bashi, this bridge is not for the faint of heart. Made of braided actinidia arguta, a hardy kiwi vine native to Japan, it stretches 45 meters across the clear waters of the Iya River. As I stepped onto the bridge, I could feel it sway beneath my feet. The gaps between the wooden slats were wider than I expected, and the one-way fare was 550 yen for adults. Elena, surprisingly, was fearless, giggling as she held onto Maximilian's hand. I, on the other hand, took a few hesitant, trembling steps, clinging to the sides.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones that push you just outside your comfort zone.

Crossing the bridge felt like stepping back in time. These bridges are said to have been initially created by the Taira clan, and while they're now reinforced with steel cables for safety, the experience is still thrilling. The views of the river below were breathtaking, the rocks sparkling beneath the surface. After crossing, we took a short walk to Biwa Waterfall, a serene spot just a few minutes from the bridge.

For lunch, we stopped at Okamura, a local restaurant known for its traditional Iya cuisine. I was eager to try some of the regional specialties. Maximilian, ever the adventurous eater, opted for grilled river fish. Elena, predictably, chose noodles. I decided to try the deko mawashi, a local potato dish that was both hearty and delicious. It was a perfect way to refuel after our bridge-crossing adventure.


Explore the authentic izakaya experience at Okamura in Nankoku, Kochi—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Next on our itinerary was the Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge. Located deeper in the Iya Valley, this spot promised an even more secluded experience. The drive there was an adventure in itself, with narrow roads winding through the mountains. We finally arrived at the Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge, also known as the husband and wife bridges. These two bridges, the male bridge and the female bridge, are set amidst a dense forest, creating a peaceful and natural atmosphere. It's said that the Heike clan built these bridges about 800 years ago to access Mt. Tsurugi, where they trained.


Discover the breathtaking Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge in Tokushima, Japan—a unique blend of adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes.

The Oku-Iya bridges felt different from the main Iya Vine Bridge. They were smaller, more intimate, and surrounded by nothing but virgin forest. Elena loved the sense of discovery as we walked through the woods, and Maximilian appreciated the tranquility of the setting. I found myself reflecting on the history of this valley, imagining the lives of those who sought refuge here centuries ago.

Before dinner, we made a quick stop at the Mountain Bookshop. I was hoping to find some literature about the Iya Valley's history and folklore. Though small, the shop was filled with interesting finds, and I picked up a book on the local legends of the Heike clan. It's these little discoveries that add so much depth to our travels.


Explore the tranquil Mountain Bookshop in Kochi, where books and coffee meet in a picturesque setting, perfect for relaxation and inspiration.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Yuzuan Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is known for showcasing the rich flavors of Japanese regional cuisine. The interior was quirky and original, filled with intriguing objects from the owner's personal collection. Maximilian and I enjoyed local dishes like katsuo no tataki (seared tuna), while Elena happily munched on omuraisu (a Japanese-style omelet filled with rice). It was the perfect way to end a day of adventure.


Discover the essence of Kochi through authentic Japanese dishes at Yuzuan Restaurant—where every meal tells a story.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Kochi Castle and the vibrant Kochi Sunday Market. I'm particularly excited about the market, as I love experiencing local culture through food and crafts. I also read about the statues of the Three Tosa Samurai, and I'm hoping to learn more about their history. I’m also hoping Maximilian will agree to a drink at Bar Salvador in the evening!

As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had today. The Iya Valley is a truly special place, a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into a different side of Japan. The vine bridges were thrilling, the scenery was breathtaking, and the food was delicious. But more than that, it was a day of connection – with each other, with the past, and with the beauty of the natural world. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

It’s experiences like these that remind me why I love to travel. Leaving my marketing consultant job in Bielefeld behind for a week to explore a new culture with my family is what life is all about. I'm so grateful that I get to share this journey with Maximilian and Elena, creating memories that will last a lifetime. And I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all!

I am also reminded that I forgot to pack a raincoat and a portable phone charger. I will try to find these tomorrow in Kochi.