Iya Valley in Tokushima, Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture, and Shiiba in Miyazaki Prefecture are among the “three most remote places in Japan.” It is an oasis of tranquility and natural wonders.

Exploring Iya Valley: Shikoku’s Hidden Gem

As one of Japan’s three great hidden valleys (Sankei), it serves as a retreat for the defeated Heike warriors after the Genpei War (1180–1185). Today, it remains a secluded paradise, offering stunning scenery, thrilling activities, and a glimpse into traditional rural life.

Kazurabashi Bridge

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Kazurabashi Bridge is an impressive 45-meter-long vine bridge. Connected to the history of the Heike clan, the bridge was the only viable way to cross the Oboke Canyon more than 800 years ago.

But don’t worry; the bridge you can see and cross today has been rebuilt periodically to ensure safety. Even so, crossing Kazurabashi is a thrilling – and terrifying at the same time – experience, as the wooden planks are spaced apart, allowing you to see the river flowing beneath your feet. Hold on tightly as you cross, as the bridge sways slightly from side to side.

Iya Valley’s Hot Springs

Iya Valley is home to some of Shikoku’s most scenic onsen, offering a perfect way to unwind while surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes. The region’s remote location and natural beauty make its hot springs a unique experience, often featuring open-air baths with stunning valley views.

Iya Onsen

The most famous hot spring in Iya Valley is Iya Onsen, located at Hotel Iya Onsen. This onsen is renowned for its 5-minute cable car ride that descends 170 meters to an outdoor bath by the Iya River, offering a truly immersive nature experience. The milky, slightly alkaline water is said to be beneficial for the skin, and the surrounding cliffs and forests create a peaceful, secluded atmosphere. The hotel also offers indoor baths and private baths for guests who prefer more privacy.

Hotel Kazurabashi Onsen

Hotel Kazurabashi Onsen, located near the Kazurabashi Vine Bridge, features a mountaintop open-air bath accessible via a mini cable car. The bath provides breathtaking panoramic views of the valley, especially beautiful during autumn foliage and spring greenery. There are separate baths for men and women, as well as private baths available. The hotel also serves local Iya cuisine, making it a great spot for a relaxing overnight stay.

Hikyo no Yu

Hikyo no Yu, meaning “Hidden Hot Spring,” is a public onsen offering a budget-friendly way to enjoy Iya’s thermal waters. While it lacks the dramatic settings of other onsens, it provides a relaxing bathhouse experience with both indoor and outdoor baths featuring clear, soft water. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a simple soak after exploring the valley.

Oboke Gorge Onsen

Located near Oboke Gorge, this onsen offers baths overlooking the Yoshino River, providing a different scenic experience from Iya’s mountain views. It is a great choice for those enjoying boat tours or whitewater rafting in the area. The Hotel Sunriver Oboke is one of the best places to enjoy this onsen, with both indoor and outdoor baths available.

Oboke and Koboke Gorge

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Oboke Gorge was designated as a natural monument in 2014 for the incredible characteristics of its schist. The narrow canyon formed by water erosion of crystalline schist looks like a towering marble sculpture.

The gorge’s foundation is primarily composed of metamorphic rocks, specifically schist, which were formed approximately 70 to 90 million years ago. 

Over millennia, the relentless flow of the Yoshino River eroded these formations, resulting in the steep, V-shaped valleys characteristic of Oboke Gorge. 

The schist layers exhibit intricate wave-like patterns, a testament to the intense geological pressures they have endured. Cracks within these layers have been further sculpted by natural erosion, giving rise to the unique rock formations observed today.

Enjoy exploring the gorge during a relaxing 30-minute cruise, or if you are in a more adventurous mood – try rafting!

How to Get To Iya Valley

Due to limited public transportation, the best way to explore Iya Valley and its onsens is by car, but train and bus options are also available.

By Train & Bus

The closest major train station to Iya Valley is Awa-Ikeda Station on the JR Dosan Line, which connects Takamatsu (Shikoku) and Okayama (Honshu). From there, travelers can take a local train or bus to reach Oboke Station, a key access point for the valley.

By Plane

Hop on a plane to Tokushima Airport, which is the closest, and then you can get to Oboke station by local JR Dosan line from Tokushima station.

Other nearby airports include Takamatsu Airport and Kochi Ryoma Airport.

Iya Valley: A Timeless Retreat

Iya Valley in Shikoku attracts travelers from Japan and abroad with its rich history, unique nature, and serene hot springs, offering an unparalleled escape into nature and tradition, untouched by time.

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My First-Time Experience in a Japanese Onsen & What I Wish I Knew

Featured image credit: Canva