Iya Vine Bridge

We took a quick stroll across Kazurabashi Vine bridge while in Iya valley.

"The bridge itself is tied to the legend of the Heike clan, once the most powerful ruling clan, who fled into these mountains from their enemies. This bridge was once the only way to cross over the deep canyons in this area, and was built with vines that are easy to cut in case of enemy pursuit. Nowadays, the bridge remains an important National and Prefectural significant folk cultural asset, and visitors come from all around Japan to test their courage and cross."

I didn't know it closed at 5pm and when we arrived the man at the front desk pointed at the sign that said closed at 5 in English.  I pulled out my phone and pointed at my clock that said 4:59.  So he waved the sign away and starting talking to us about prices.  Unfortunately I didn't realize it cost money and cash only, so he had to wait a few minutes for Bob to run back up the the car to get money.  I was glad he let us do it, but felt a little bad that he then had to wait.  

The bridge is 45 meters long and 14 meters above the river below.

Bob was terrified Beatrix was going to fall through.  I walked across slowly with Calista, who was scared, but we made it no problem.  I didn't think it felt scary or dangerous at all.  Bob thought it was the worst part of the trip.