Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge (Tochigi Prefecture) Complete Guide｜Enjoying the Spectacular Views of Shiobara Gorge on Honshu’s Largest-Class Suspension Bridge
The “Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge” located in the Shiobara Hot Spring area of Nasu Shiobara City, Tochigi Prefecture, is a magnificent 320-meter-long pedestrian suspension bridge spanning Shiobara Dam Lake. As one of Honshu’s largest unbent-girder pedestrian suspension bridges, it attracts visitors throughout the year as a tourist destination where you can experience the majestic nature of Shiobara Gorge in a 360-degree panorama.
Overview and Characteristics of Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge
Honshu’s Largest-Class Unbent-Girder Pedestrian Suspension Bridge
Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge is an impressive structure with a total length of 320 meters, a width of 1.5 meters, and a height of approximately 30 meters above the water surface. The greatest feature of this suspension bridge lies in its “unbent-girder pedestrian suspension bridge” structure.
An unbent-girder pedestrian suspension bridge is a structure that enhances the strength of the suspension bridge by stretching thick wire ropes horizontally, without using reinforced girders (stiffening girders) to reinforce the bridge deck. This structure is Japan’s largest in scale, achieving the maximum length in Honshu. The main towers supporting the suspension bridge reach a height of 26.2 meters, allowing you to feel their presence even from a distance.
An Aerial Walk Spanning Shiobara Dam Lake
Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge is constructed over Shiobara Dam Lake on the lower reaches of the Hoki River. Shiobara Dam was built in the 1960s, and the suspension bridge is installed in a way that crosses the dam’s artificial lake, Shiobara Dam Lake, from above.
From the bridge, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the clear blue water surface of Shiobara Dam Lake, the surrounding mountains, and the landscape of Shiobara Gorge stretching into the distance. The sense of openness as if taking an aerial walk and the beauty of nature spreading below one’s feet continue to captivate visitors.
The Attractions of Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge Through the Seasons
Spring’s Fresh Green and Alpine Wildflowers
In spring, the mountains of Shiobara Gorge are enveloped in vibrant fresh greenery. Around the suspension bridge, cherry blossoms and azaleas bloom in profusion, creating beautiful scenery with the contrast of soft pink and green. From April to May, alpine wildflowers also reach their best viewing season, making it an excellent time for nature observation.
Summer’s Deep Green and Cool Breezes
During summer, the mountains covered in thick green and the lush blue waters of the dam lake make a striking impression. Due to its high elevation, temperatures are lower than in the lowlands, and the breezes sweeping across the bridge bring pleasantly cool air. During summer vacation season, it becomes crowded with families and is popular as a refreshment spot in nature.
Autumn’s Peak Foliage Season
Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge displays its most beautiful appearance during the autumn foliage season. True to its name, the surrounding area is planted with many Japanese maples and maples, which turn red and yellow from mid-October to early November.
Both the near side and the far side of the bridge are covered with colored foliage, spreading scenery truly worthy of the name “Momiji Valley.” Being able to view from atop the bridge the entire Shiobara Gorge dyed in autumn colors is a special experience available only during this season. Many tourists visit during foliage season, so a visit during quieter times such as weekday mornings is recommended.
Winter’s Snowy Landscape
When winter arrives, Shiobara Gorge transforms into a fantastical landscape adorned with snow. The snowy trees surrounding the suspension bridge and the winter scenery created by frozen waterfalls and icicles possess a different charm from other seasons. However, during winter, adequate cold-weather clothing and non-slip shoes are necessary due to frozen and snowy surfaces.
Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge as a Sacred Site for Lovers
The “Forest Station” where Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge is located has been certified as a “Sacred Site for Lovers” by the NPO Regional Revitalization Support Center. This certification is granted to romantic spots appropriate for couples and married couples to visit, with approximately 140 locations certified nationwide.
Viewing the grand scenery from atop the suspension bridge together as a couple allows you to create special memories. A monument to the Sacred Site for Lovers is also installed at the Forest Station, making it a popular memorial photography spot. It has also been chosen as a proposal and anniversary date destination.
Facilities and Services at Forest Station
Restaurant and Dining
A restaurant is annexed to the entrance of Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge at the “Forest Station.” You can enjoy dishes made with local Tochigi ingredients and local specialties from Shiobara Hot Spring. It is ideal for rest and meals after crossing the bridge.
Souvenir Shop
The souvenir shop at Forest Station has a rich variety of Tochigi Prefecture-exclusive souvenirs. Products from Shiobara Hot Spring, local crafts, confectioneries, and other items suitable as travel souvenirs and gifts are sold. In particular, original products featuring maple leaves, locally produced honey, and jams are popular.
Event Hosting
Forest Station hosts various events by season. These include special illumination during foliage season, farmers’ markets selling local agricultural products, music events, and more, offering new enjoyment opportunities with each visit. Event information can be found on the official website and Nasu Shiobara City tourism information.
Basic Information
Location and Access
Address: 1425-60 Sekiya, Nasu Shiobara City, Tochigi Prefecture (Forest Station)
Access by Car:
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Nishi Nasushiobara IC” on the Tohoku Expressway
- Approximately 40 minutes from “Imaichi IC” on the Nikko-Utsunomiya Expressway
- Accessible via Route 400
Access by Public Transportation:
- Approximately 40 minutes by bus from “Nishi Nasushiobara Station” on the JR Tohoku Main Line
- Approximately 30 minutes by taxi from “Nasu Shiobara Station” on the JR Tohoku Shinkansen
- Within walking distance from Shiobara Hot Spring Bus Terminal (varies by route)
Business Hours and Closed Days
Business Hours:
- April to October: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry 5:40 PM)
- November to March: 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM (last entry 3:40 PM)
Closed Days: Open year-round
※However, the bridge may close to traffic during severe weather, strong winds, or bridge inspections.
Fees
Crossing Fees:
- Adults (high school students and above): 300 yen
- Elementary and middle school students: 200 yen
- Below elementary school: Free
Discounted Fees for Local Residents:
Residents of Nasu Shiobara City may be eligible for discounted or free admission by presenting proof of address (driver’s license, health insurance card, etc.). For details, please contact the front desk or Nasu Shiobara City Tourism Division.
Parking
Forest Station Parking:
- Standard cars: Approximately 200 spaces
- Large buses: Several spaces available
- Parking fee: Free
The parking lot becomes congested during peak seasons such as autumn foliage, so early arrival is recommended.
Contact Information
Phone Number: 0287-34-1037 (Forest Station)
Information is also provided by Nasu Shiobara City Tourism Division and Shiobara Hot Spring Tourism Association.
Precautions When Crossing the Bridge
About Swaying
Due to its 320-meter length, the suspension bridge sways considerably. Swaying becomes more pronounced on windy days or when many people are crossing simultaneously. Those with acrophobia or sensitivity to swaying are advised to mentally prepare in advance. However, this swaying can also be enjoyed as a unique charm of the suspension bridge.
Safety Measures
Wire rope handrails approximately 1.2 meters high are installed on both sides of the bridge, ensuring safety. However, when accompanied by small children, be sure to hold hands while crossing. Additionally, running on the bridge or jumping is not only a nuisance to other users but also dangerous, so please refrain.
Weather-Related Restrictions
The bridge may close to traffic for safety reasons during strong winds (wind speed of 10 meters per second or more), thunderstorms, or heavy snowfall. It is recommended to check the weather forecast before visiting and to contact the facility in advance if bad weather is expected.
Surrounding Tourist Spots
Shiobara Hot Spring Resort
Shiobara Hot Spring Resort spreads around Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge. Shiobara Hot Spring is a hot spring area with a history of over 1,200 years, comprising 11 hot spring locations. Since there are many day-trip bathing facilities available, relaxing in a hot spring after exploring the bridge is also recommended.
Shiobara Gorge Promenade
Along the Hoki River in Shiobara Gorge, there is an established promenade. You can visit multiple attractions including “Kaiko Suspension Bridge,” “Ryuka Waterfall,” and “Nuno Waterfall.” Combined with Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge, you can fully enjoy the natural beauty of Shiobara Gorge.
Shiobara Monogatari Hall
A museum where you can learn about the history and culture of Shiobara Hot Spring. It exhibits the footsteps of famous authors who visited Shiobara during the Meiji and Taisho periods and the history of the hot spring. Located approximately 10 minutes by car from Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge.
Hunter Mountain Shiobara
A facility that operates as a ski resort in winter and a alpine flower garden in summer. In summer, “Lily Park” is popular, where approximately 4 million lilies bloom, and you can take a gondola up to 1,600 meters elevation.
Photography Spots and Best Shots
Photography of the Entire Bridge
To photograph the entire bridge, the observation deck on the Forest Station side or the park on the opposite bank after crossing are recommended. Particularly from the opposite bank, you can capture both the bridge and the mountains of Shiobara Gorge together.
Photography from Atop the Bridge
From near the center of the bridge, you can view the water surface of Shiobara Dam Lake and the surrounding mountains in all 360 degrees. Especially during foliage season, you can capture beautiful photographs of the contrast between colorful foliage and the blue lake surface.
Early Morning and Evening Light
Early morning or late afternoon when slanted light comes through offers beautiful illumination of the bridge and surrounding nature, allowing dramatic photography. Particularly during autumn evenings, there is a moment when foliage lit by the setting sun glows golden.
Best Seasons to Visit and Recommended Times
Autumn Foliage Season (Mid-October to Early November)
The most popular season is autumn foliage. In particular, late October to early November is peak viewing season. High crowds are expected during this period, so visiting on weekdays in early morning (shortly after opening) or near closing is recommended.
Fresh Greenery Season (May to June)
This season allows you to enjoy fresh greenery without the crowds of foliage season. The climate is also mild, making it ideal for hiking and exploring.
Weekday Mornings
Weekends and holidays tend to be crowded, so for those wishing to leisurely enjoy the scenery, weekday mornings are recommended. Particularly from around 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM shortly after opening is relatively quiet.
Accommodations in Shiobara Hot Spring Resort
When visiting Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge, staying overnight in Shiobara Hot Spring Resort is also recommended. Numerous hot spring inns and hotels are available, where you can enjoy hot spring water from natural sources. A popular plan is enjoying an evening stroll through the hot spring town and then visiting the bridge early the next morning.
Many accommodations offer shuttle services to Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge and discount tickets, so be sure to check when making reservations.
Summary
Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge, as Honshu’s largest-class unbent-girder pedestrian suspension bridge with a length of 320 meters, is a leading tourist attraction in Tochigi Prefecture where you can enjoy the majestic nature of Shiobara Gorge in a 360-degree panorama. The scenery changes beautifully with each season, with autumn foliage particularly breathtaking, and it is also certified as a Sacred Site for Lovers.
With Forest Station offering restaurants and souvenir shops, you can enjoy yourself all day long. Visiting combined with other tourist spots in Shiobara Hot Spring Resort will make your trip even more fulfilling.
The view from the bridge reveals different faces depending on the season and time of day you visit. Every visit brings new discoveries, making it an appealing tourist destination. When visiting Nasu Shiobara City in Tochigi Prefecture, be sure to experience the spectacular scenery of Shiobara Gorge at Momiji Valley Great Suspension Bridge.
