Destinations

Iya Valley

"With its vine bridges, steep valleys and soaring mountain peaks the Iya Valley is a world away from the urban concrete jungle of Japan's east coast cities - a great place to experience hidden Japan"

Alastair Donnelly - Director

On the western border of Tokushima Prefecture, the deep gorges that make up the Iya valley are known as one of Japan’s “hidden regions” and offer some of Shikoku’s best views, especially from the summit of Mount Tsurugi, the second highest peak on the island. It is a great place for hiking and cycling with a variety of routes already mapped out.  

The remote and rural area is famous for its kazurabashi (vine bridges) which were once the only way to cross the river.

The Iya Valley is also home to the Chiiori Project, once an uninhabited thatched roof farmhouse discovered by American writer and art collector Alex Kerr in the 1970’s. Over two decades, with the help of many like minded friends, Kerr restored the farmhouse and the project received a great deal of attention both nationally and internationally. It also featured in his award winning book “Lost Japan”. Nowadays Chiiori, or “House of the flute”, is open to volunteers from all walks of life who wish to taste Japanese country living and keep the project alive.    

Products featuring Iya Valley...

Self Guided Adventure

Discover Japan by Bike

Historic cities, lush tea fields, virgin forest, farming villages, traditional food, hot spring baths and rides on the Bullet Train all await the intrepid cyclist. With some fantastic scenery and unforgettable cultural experiences this trip proves that the best way to experience Japan is by bike!

13 Nights: £2510

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Self Guided Adventure

Paths Less Travelled

Our Paths Less Travelled itinerary circumnavigates the valleys and mountains of beautiful rural Shikoku and includes time on the art island of Naoshima as well as stays in historic Kyoto and buzzing Osaka.

15 Nights: £1860

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