The Allure of the Hidden Valley
Enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty that unfolds across this secluded valley
Exploring Iya Valley
A Journey Through the Wonders of the Iya Valley
The Iya Valley, one of Japan's three great hidden regions.
Ringed by deep gorges and green mountains,
the area is dotted with storied landmarks and breathtaking views.
With TOMORI as your base, enjoy all that this hidden country offers.
" Iya Kazurabashi Vine Bridge "
A hidden-valley landmark designated a nationally Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property
This primitive suspension bridge, woven from shirakuchi vines, is the emblem of the Iya Valley, passed down together with legends of the Heike refugees. Crossing its 45m span—2m wide, 14m above the water—step by step, with the emerald-green stream far below, is an experience only this hidden valley can offer. Rebuilt once every three years, its tradition lives on.
Historical Background
Legend holds that Heike refugees built the bridge to escape their pursuers. It is designated a nationally Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property.
Highlights
The thrill of the stream glimpsed beneath your feet, and valley scenery that changes with the seasons. During evening illuminations, the bridge takes on an otherworldly air.
" Oboke / Koboke "
Gorges carved by 200 million years of time
Oboke and Koboke were carved by the rapids of the Yoshino River over 200 million years. Lined with crystalline schist, the gorges are designated a national Natural Monument and Place of Scenic Beauty, with superb views in every season. From a sightseeing boat, the cliffs overhead are overwhelming in scale. At the roadside station, enjoy local food and exhibits on yokai legends.
Oboke Gorge Sightseeing Boat
A boat ride of about 30 minutes through the gorge. The cliffs seen from the water and the emerald-green stream are exceptionally beautiful.
Michi-no-Eki Oboke Roadside Station
A rest stop stocked with local specialties and souvenirs. In the "Yokai House," you can experience the monster legends handed down in Iya.
" Iya Gorge "
Deep-mountain vistas of one of Japan's three great hidden regions
A deep V-shaped gorge running some 20km along the Iya River. Sheer cliffs and dense green weave a landscape fully worthy of the name "hidden country." A favorite driving route as well, with striking viewpoints at every turn.
Hinoji Gorge
A viewpoint where the Iya River bends in the shape of the hiragana character "hi." From the observation deck, the sweep of the gorge below is breathtaking.
The Peeing Boy Statue
A statue of a peeing boy stands on a rock jutting over the sheer cliff—a spot where, as the story goes, local children once tested their courage.
Plan Your Journey to the Hidden Valley
More Spots
Attractions Around the Iya Valley
Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridges
Two vine bridges side by side—the "Male Bridge" and the "Female Bridge"—with an even more primeval feel. With few visitors, you can savor the hidden valley in quiet.
Biwa Falls
A waterfall of some 50m just beside the Kazurabashi bridge. Legend tells of Heike refugees playing the biwa lute here as they longed for the capital.
Tsuzuki Shoten
A long-loved local store, its shelves lined with Iya specialties and handmade dishes—a place to touch the everyday life of the region.
Ikeminami, Ikeda-cho
Samurai Touring
Cycling tours based in Ikeda-cho. Ride through historic streetscapes and Shikoku's natural landscapes—sightseeing at an active pace.
Address
〒779-5165
525-1 Matsuo-Matsumoto, Ikeda-cho, Miyoshi, Tokushima, Japan
Google MapDirections by Car
Please refer to the following
for directions to Iya Valley Glamping TOMORI.
Major roads bring you here smoothly.
About 45–50 minutes from the Ikawa-Ikeda IC on the Tokushima Expressway.
Route Guide
Key points along the way from the Ikawa-Ikeda IC to TOMORI, where drivers often go astray.
On National Route 32, turn left at the signboard shown
Point 1
This is where National Route 32 branches onto Prefectural Route 32. Turn left, following the road signs toward the hot springs (onsen).
At the fork on Prefectural Route 32, continue straight
Point 2
This is the fork between Prefectural Route 32 and Prefectural Route 140. Stay on Prefectural Route 32.
The downhill fork is the entrance to TOMORI
Point 3
Look for the wooden sign. Take the downhill road beside it, and you will arrive at TOMORI.
Arriving at the TOMORI entrance
Arrival
When you see the wooden "TOMORI" sign along the road, you have arrived. Follow the sign onto the grounds.