About
In the heart of Tokushima Prefecture, nestled within the rugged embrace of the Iya Valley, lies a bridge that seems to have been woven from the very fabric of the forest itself. This is the Kazurabashi, a vine bridge that stretches gracefully across the Iya River, a testament to both human ingenuity and the untamed beauty of nature.
As you approach, the dense canopy of cedar and cypress trees parts to reveal the bridge, its structure composed entirely of intertwined vines known as Actinidia arguta, or hardy kiwi. These vines, harvested from the surrounding mountains, are meticulously woven together, creating a span that measures approximately 45 meters in length and 2 meters in width, suspended 14 meters above the river's surface. The bridge sways gently with each step, a living entity responding to the rhythm of those who traverse it.
The origins of Kazurabashi are steeped in legend. It is said that in the late 12th century, members of the Taira clan, fleeing defeat in the Genpei War, sought refuge in the secluded Iya Valley. To navigate the treacherous terrain and maintain escape routes, they constructed these vine bridges, which could be cut down swiftly to thwart pursuing enemies. While the historical accuracy of this tale is debated, the bridge undeniably serves as a link to a bygone era, echoing the resilience and resourcefulness of those who once called this valley home.
Crossing the bridge is an experience that engages all the senses. The scent of damp earth and foliage fills the air, mingling with the cool mist rising from the river below. The wooden slats beneath your feet, spaced just enough to glimpse the rushing waters, creak softly, harmonizing with the rustling leaves and distant calls of mountain birds. Each step forward is both a thrill and a meditation, a dance between trust and trepidation.
Beyond the bridge, the valley unfolds in a panorama of verdant slopes and terraced fields, where traditional thatched-roof farmhouses dot the landscape. These homes, known as "kayabuki," are built to withstand the heavy snowfall of winter and the humid summers, their steep roofs shedding the elements with ease. The villagers here maintain a way of life that honors the rhythms of nature, cultivating crops like soba (buckwheat) and tending to the forests that have sustained them for generations.
In the evenings, the bridge is illuminated, casting a warm glow that reflects off the river's surface, creating a scene reminiscent of a painting. The interplay of light and shadow, the gentle sway of the vines, and the chorus of nocturnal creatures combine to create an atmosphere that is both enchanting and ephemeral.
Visiting Kazurabashi is more than a journey across a bridge; it is a passage through time, a communion with history and nature. It invites you to step away from the hurried pace of modern life and immerse yourself in a world where the past and present coexist in delicate balance. Here, in the heart of the Iya Valley, the Kazurabashi stands as a living monument to the enduring spirit of those who have traversed its path, a bridge not just of vines, but of stories, memories, and the timeless beauty of the natural world.