Tanize Suspension Bridge

In short

The Tanize Suspension Bridge spans the Totsukawa River, connecting Uenoji in Totsukawa Village with the opposite bank of Tanize. Measuring 297 meters in length and 54 meters in height, it is the longest wire-rope suspension bridge for daily use in Japan. Built in 1954 with funds pooled by local residents added to official funding, it continues to serve as an essential bridge for daily life today. From November 9, 2026, until the end of March 2027 (scheduled), the bridge is fully closed for improvement work in the surrounding area, and you cannot cross it or visit it for sightseeing.

• ​Walk in the Sky​​: With each step across the wooden planks, the bridge sways, offering an airy stroll at a height that can make your legs tremble.
• ​View of the Kumano River​​: The clear waters of the Kumano River (Totsukawa) flow below, surrounded by towering mountains.
• ​The Tanize Settlement on the Opposite Shore​​: Following a walking map created by local residents, you can explore cafes, a shrine, and an observation deck overlooking the bridge.

History and Highlights

The Tanize Suspension Bridge crosses the Totsukawa River, linking Uenoji in Totsukawa Village with the settlement of Tanize on the opposite bank. It measures 297 meters long and 54 meters high, making it Japan's longest wire-rope suspension bridge used for daily living.

Before the bridge was built, residents living in the mountains across the river crossed by simple log bridges. This area experiences some of the heaviest rainfall in Japan, and log bridges were frequently washed away, especially during the typhoon season. Facing this challenge, the households of Tanize pooled significant sums of their own money—200,000 to 300,000 yen per household. Combined with municipal funds, this suspension bridge was completed in 1954. In 1972, reinforcements were added to withstand strong winds and earthquakes.

Today, the bridge remains a vital community road used for commuting to work and school, and anyone is welcome to cross it. The view of the Totsukawa River below, the surrounding mountains, and the thrill of walking across have earned it widespread acclaim, establishing it as an iconic sightseeing spot in Totsukawa Village.

Viewing and Experiencing Highlights

• ​Crossing the Swaying Deck​​: You make your way step by step across wooden planks. With every step, the bridge sways, suspended at a height that may make your feet freeze. Please cross at your own risk without running or intentionally swaying the bridge.
• ​Views of the Kumano River and Mountains​​: Surrounded by towering peaks, the clear Kumano River (Totsukawa) flows far below. Set against blue skies and verdant mountains, the bridge is picturesque from any angle.
• ​The Tanize Settlement and Observation Deck​​: On the other side of the bridge lies Tanize, a typical village of this region. A "Leisurely Walking Path" map created by residents highlights local cafes, guesthouses, a shrine, and an observation deck overlooking the bridge. According to locals, this observation deck was built on the spot where Tanize residents used to signal to family and friends across the river by waving before the bridge was erected.

Tips for Visitors

From November 9, 2026, until the end of March 2027 (scheduled), the bridge is fully closed for improvement work in the surrounding area, and you cannot cross it or visit it for sightseeing. Part of the village road next to the village-operated parking lot in Uenoji is also closed.

A village-operated parking lot is located on the Uenoji side of the bridge. During crowded periods, please follow the directions of security staff when crossing. Directly beneath the bridge is an auto campsite, which becomes lively in the summer with visitors enjoying day camping, barbecues, and playing in the river.

To reach the bridge by train and bus, take the Shingu-bound bus that passes through Totsukawa from JR Gojo Station, and get off at Uenoji. The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. By car, drive south from Gojo City along National Route 168 for about 1 hour to reach the parking lot at Tanize Suspension Bridge.

Totsukawa Onsen is located about 18 kilometers to the south, and Sasa Falls is approximately 10 kilometers to the east-southeast.