• Iya Kazura Bridge - Historically, over 13 of these bridges spanned the Iya River, but today only 3 remain. Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge is closed during the winter season.
• Mannequin Pis - Visitors are treated to a breathtaking view of the steep surrounding mountains and the turquoise Iya River, which flows more than 200 meters below.
• Oboke Koboke - Oboke Gorge (大歩危, Ōboke) and the nearby Koboke Gorge (小歩危), located slightly downstream, are narrow, steep-sided gorges near the entrance to the Iya Valley. They are often visited together. Carved by the swirling rapids of the Yoshino River, their names mean “big dangerous steps” and “small dangerous steps,” reflecting the jagged, rocky walls that can be treacherous to navigate.

The gorges are among Japan’s top outdoor destinations, comparable to Minakami in Gunma Prefecture. They are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and the variety of outdoor activities available, such as whitewater rafting and canyoning.

• Nagoro Scarecrow Village - Also known as the ‘Scarecrow Village in the Sky’ due to its 900-meter altitude, this village offers a glimpse into a leisurely rural life. Villagers can be seen working in the fields, relaxing under the eaves of houses, and enjoying roadside gatherings. The village is home to 27 residents and 200 scarecrows! It truly is a ‘scarecrow village’. Open all year round.
• Okuiya Niju Kazurabashi Bridge - Closed during the winter season (December to March)
  The final stop of the day is the double vine bridges of Oku-Iya Kazurabashi. These two vine bridges, located close to each other, are known as the husband-and-wife bridge. They offer an adventurous experience and are not recommended for those with a fear of heights. A small hand-operated cable car is also available to cross the river.
• Mt. Tsurugi - Closed during the winter season (December to March)

Mount Tsurugi, standing at 1955 meters, is located at the eastern end of the remote Iya Valley. As the second tallest mountain on Shikoku Island, it is one of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains and a center of Shugendo, a Japanese folk religion centered on mountain worship. Mount Tsurugi is a popular hiking destination and, despite its name meaning Sword Mountain, it is not a difficult climb.

To visit Mt. Tsurugi, extend the tour by 2 hours, as it takes about one hour from Iya Valley to Mt. Tsurugi. Please contact Japan Guide Agency at booking@j-g-a.org.

• Ochiai Village - This small hamlet in the heart of Iya Valley features a collection of historical farmhouses dating back to the mid-Edo era. Perched on a mountainside, visitors can gain insight into the rural lifestyle and traditions that have been preserved to this day.

• Private vehicle
• Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from ‘What to expect’ list
• Local driver with limited English proficiency

• Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
• Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
• You cannot combine multiple tour groups

For a more convenient way to explore Iya Valley, consider booking a private taxi for a one-day tour!

Begin your adventure by meeting your driver at your hotel near Oboke Station. During this six-hour tour, you may visit the Manikin Peeing Boy Statue, which offers breathtaking views of the steep mountains and the turquoise Iya River. Other potential stops include the Iya Kazurabashi vine bridge, Ochiai Village—a quaint hamlet in the heart of Iya Valley featuring farmhouses from the mid-Edo era—and the Oku-Iya Kazurabashi double vine bridges.

Note 1: The driver for this tour has limited English proficiency. Communication will be facilitated through a translation app. Please finalize your itinerary or send a list of desired sites to visit one week before the tour date, and send it directly to the Japan Guide Agency.

Note 2: Tour details may change due to seasonal factors. Mt. Tsurugi and Okuiyanijukazurabashi are closed during the winter season, from December to March.

• There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.
• If you want to visit Mt. Tsurugi, you have to extend the tour duration by 2 hours as it takes about one hour from Iya Valley to Mt. Tsurugi.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.