Demuyama Iron Bridge / Hayakawa Bridge (Kanagawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Highlights, and Access Information
The Hakone Tozan Railway, which runs through Hakone Town in Kanagawa Prefecture, has numerous iron bridges, but among them, the most famous is the historic bridge known as the “Demuyama Iron Bridge” or “Hayakawa Bridge.” This iron bridge, constructed in 1917 (Taisho 6), spans the Hayakawa Gorge with a depth of 43 meters and length of approximately 61 meters. In 1999 (Heisei 11), it was registered as a Tangible Cultural Property. This article introduces all the charm of this historic iron bridge.
Basic Information about Demuyama Iron Bridge / Hayakawa Bridge
The Demuyama Iron Bridge is a railroad bridge located between Tonosawa Station and Demuyama Signal Station (toward Ohdaira Station) on the Hakone Tozan Railway. Its official name is “Hayakawa Bridge,” but locally it is known affectionately as the “Demuyama Iron Bridge.” This bridge is constructed across the deep gorge of the Hayakawa Valley, and its dramatic landscape has become a hidden gem of Hakone tourism.
Bridge Structure and Features
The Demuyama Iron Bridge was constructed in the form of a steel double-Warren truss bridge. Notably, this bridge is made from one of the 19-span sections of the Tenryu River Bridge constructed in 1888 (Meiji 21). The upper and lower chords are made of steel material, while the web members are made of wrought iron, making it a valuable industrial heritage that conveys railroad technology from the Meiji era to the present day.
The bridge specifications are as follows:
- Height: Approximately 43 meters (from bridge foundation base to bridge girder)
- Length: 60.96 meters
- Type: Steel double-Warren truss bridge
- Construction Year: May 31, 1917 (Taisho 6)
- Cultural Property Designation: Registered as Tangible Cultural Property in 1999 (Heisei 11)
Historical Value of Demuyama Iron Bridge
Construction in the Taisho Era and Development of Hakone Tozan Railway
The Hakone Tozan Railway opened its full line from Odawara Station to Gora Station in 1919 (Taisho 8), but the Demuyama Iron Bridge was completed earlier in 1917 (Taisho 6). This period was the dawn of Hakone’s development as a full-fledged tourist destination, and the construction of the railroad greatly contributed to the development of Hakone tourism.
To run the railroad through the harsh terrain of the Hayakawa Gorge, engineers faced numerous difficulties. Constructing a bridge across a gorge 43 meters deep was a major challenge for civil engineering technology at that time. The reuse of materials from the Tenryu River Bridge is considered a wise decision for cost reduction and construction schedule shortening.
Value as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property
In 1999 (Heisei 11), the Demuyama Iron Bridge was designated as a national Registered Tangible Cultural Property. This designation recognized the following values of the bridge:
- Historical Value: A valuable structure that conveys railroad technology from the Taisho era to the present
- Technical Value: A unique construction method utilizing Meiji-era Tenryu River Bridge materials
- Scenic Value: Beautiful appearance harmonizing with the natural landscape of the Hayakawa Gorge
- Cultural Value: Role as transportation infrastructure supporting the development of Hakone tourism
It continues to be used as an active railroad bridge and has supported the Hakone Tozan Railway for over 100 years.
Spectacular Views from the Registered Tangible Cultural Property Bridge
The greatest charm of the Demuyama Iron Bridge is the spectacular views that can be enjoyed from the bridge itself and its surroundings. From the bridge spanning the deep gorge, the clear waters of the Hayakawa River are visible below, with the abundant natural beauty of Hakone spreading all around.
Landscapes Through the Seasons
The area around the Demuyama Iron Bridge offers beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons, but the autumn foliage season is particularly exceptional.
Spring (April-May)
In the season of fresh greenery, the entire gorge is wrapped in vibrant green. The water volume of the Hayakawa is abundant, and the pleasant sound of the clear stream echoes comfortingly.
Summer (June-August)
The gorge covered in deep green is refreshingly cool, with the serene landscape characteristic of Hakone as a summer retreat. The shadows created by the depth of the gorge create beautiful light and shade during this period.
Autumn (Late October-Mid November)
During the autumn foliage season, the gorge is painted red, yellow, and orange, creating truly spectacular views. The colorful gorge scenery can be enjoyed either from the windows of the Hakone Tozan Electric Train or from designated viewpoints where the bridge is visible. The peak foliage period is typically from late October through mid-November, and during this time, many tourists and photography enthusiasts visit.
Winter (December-March)
After the leaves have fallen, the structure beauty of the bridge becomes more prominent. With clear air, many days offer views extending to distant landscapes, allowing visitors to enjoy the stern, solemn scenery unique to winter.
View from the Train Windows
When aboard the Hakone Tozan Electric Train, shortly after departing from Tonosawa Station, the train emerges from a tunnel and approaches the Demuyama Iron Bridge. In just a few tens of seconds, the dramatic scenery of the deep gorge below comes into view. The seats on the right side in the direction of travel especially offer dramatic views where you can truly sense the depth of the gorge and the height of the bridge.
The unique vibrations and sounds as the train crosses the bridge also provide a fascinating experience for railroad enthusiasts.
Photography Spots and Viewpoints
For those wishing to photograph the Demuyama Iron Bridge or view the bridge, we introduce recommended viewpoints.
Main Photography Points
Tonosawa Station Vicinity
You can approach the bridge on foot from Tonosawa Station. However, the bridge itself is for railroad use, and pedestrians cannot cross it. You can photograph the bridge from nearby roads and paths, capturing it from below looking up.
View from the Opposite Bank
There are points on the opposite bank of the Hayakawa River from which the entire bridge can be captured. This spot is popular with photography enthusiasts because the composition allows for simultaneous understanding of the gorge’s depth and the bridge’s height.
Photography from Train Windows
When photographing from within the Hakone Tozan Electric Train, prepare immediately after departing Tonosawa Station, with the shutter opportunity running from the moment the train emerges from the tunnel until it finishes crossing the bridge. A window seat on the right side in the direction of travel is recommended.
Photography Notes
- Entry into railroad facilities without permission is strictly prohibited
- Be careful not to get too close to railroad tracks or bridges
- Photography should only be conducted from public roads or authorized locations
- During the foliage season, crowds are heavy; please be considerate of others
- When photographing from train windows, avoid sudden movements that might disturb other passengers
Access Methods and Surrounding Information
Access by Train
Using Hakone Tozan Railway
- Board at Odawara Station and take the Hakone Tozan Railway
- Get off at Tonosawa Station (approximately 20 minutes from Odawara Station)
- Walk from Tonosawa Station toward the bridge area
Alternatively, you can board from Hakone Yumoto Station and get off at Tonosawa Station (approximately 5 minutes).
Nearest Stations
- Tonosawa Station (Hakone Tozan Railway)
- Ohdaira Station (Hakone Tozan Railway) ※The bridge is located between both stations
Access by Car
Head toward the Hakone Yumoto area using National Route 1 (Hakone New Road) or prefectural roads, and search for parking in the Tonosawa area. However, there is no dedicated parking near the bridge itself, so you will need to use nearby paid parking lots or parking facilities at hot spring facilities.
During tourist seasons such as autumn foliage, roads become congested, so we recommend using public transportation.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Tonosawa Hot Spring
Tonosawa, the nearest location to the Demuyama Iron Bridge, is counted among Hakone’s Seven Hot Springs. Historic hot spring inns are scattered throughout the area, and some facilities accept day-trippers.
Hakone Yumoto Hot Spring
Hakone Yumoto, one station down from Tonosawa Station, is Hakone’s largest hot spring town. Many hot spring facilities, souvenir shops, and restaurants gather here, making it ideal as a tourism hub.
Hayakawa Gorge
The Hayakawa Gorge itself, where the Demuyama Iron Bridge spans, is a scenic natural area. Walking paths have been developed along the gorge, allowing visitors to enjoy hiking.
Other Highlights of Hakone Tozan Railway
In addition to the Demuyama Iron Bridge, the Hakone Tozan Railway offers abundant attractions that fascinate railroad enthusiasts, including numerous iron bridges, tunnels, and switchbacks.
Hot Spring Facility Information in the Surrounding Area
Here we introduce recommended hot spring facilities within a 10km radius that would be nice to visit when viewing the Demuyama Iron Bridge / Hayakawa Bridge.
Hot Springs in the Tonosawa Area
Tonosawa Ichinomiya Honkan
One of the closest hot spring inns to the Demuyama Iron Bridge. This historic building allows you to enjoy hot springs while taking in the natural scenery of the Hayakawa Gorge. Day-trippers are welcomed during certain hours.
Hot Springs in the Hakone Yumoto Area
Hakone Yuryou
A day-trip hot spring facility located about 3 minutes by shuttle bus from Hakone Yumoto Station. The spacious open-air bath with its rustic hillside charm is popular, and the dining options are extensive.
Yu no Sato Okada
A day-trip hot spring facility with five hot spring sources. It features spacious open-air and indoor baths where you can fully enjoy Hakone’s natural beauty.
Hakone Yumoto Onsen Tenseiyen
A large hot spring facility approximately 12 minutes on foot from Hakone Yumoto Station. Day-trippers are welcome, and the rooftop open-air bath offers exceptional views. The garden grounds also include a shrine dedicated to good fortune in love.
Hakone Parks Yoshino
A hot spring inn located on high ground in Hakone Yumoto. The open-air bath with excellent views is a point of pride, and day-use plans are available.
Yoshiike Ryokan
A long-established inn featuring a Japanese garden spanning approximately 10,000 tsubo. A popular day-use plan combines garden walks with hot spring bathing.
Hakone Tabi no Yado Umimoto
A hot spring inn within walking distance of Hakone Yumoto Station. With a welcoming, homey atmosphere, it offers hot springs with pure hot spring water.
Hakone Kamon
A modern Japanese-style hot spring inn. Private baths are extensive, allowing you to spend private time.
Hakone Yumoto Fujiya Hotel Yu-dokoro
Conveniently located about 3 minutes on foot from Hakone Yumoto Station. Hot spring facilities available to non-guests allow visitors to stop by easily between sightseeing activities.
The Charm of Hakone Tozan Railway
The Hakone Tozan Railway, which includes the Demuyama Iron Bridge, is itself a major tourism resource.
One of Japan’s Premier Mountain Railways
The Hakone Tozan Railway is a full-fledged mountain railway that climbs steep grades from Odawara Station to Gora Station at approximately 540 meters elevation. The steepest grade is 80 permille (rising 80 meters over a 1,000-meter distance), making it the steepest grade for a Japanese adhesion-type railway.
Switchback System
To climb the steep grades, switchbacks (zigzag driving) are performed at Ohdaira Station, Kamiohraira Signal Station, and Demuyama Signal Station. This unique operating method where the direction of travel changes provides an enjoyable experience for passengers.
Azalea Train
From mid-June to early July, approximately 10,000 azalea plants bloom along the tracks, captivating many tourists as the “Azalea Train.” During this period, evening illumination is also offered, creating fantastical scenery.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting
When visiting the Demuyama Iron Bridge / Hayakawa Bridge, please note the following points.
Safety Precautions
- Entry into railroad facilities without permission is prohibited by law
- Avoid getting too close to railroad tracks or bridges
- Gorge terrain has areas with poor footing, so wear appropriate shoes
- Caution is necessary as paths may become slippery depending on weather conditions
Photography Etiquette
- Avoid entering private property without permission
- Be considerate so as not to disturb other tourists or local residents
- When using tripods, select locations that do not impede traffic
- The use of drones requires regulatory permission and approval from facility managers
Environmental Protection
- Always take trash with you
- Refrain from picking plants or feeding animals
- Cherish the natural environment and preserve beautiful scenery for future generations
Recommended Courses for Enjoying Demuyama Iron Bridge
We introduce recommended touring courses centered on the Demuyama Iron Bridge / Hayakawa Bridge.
Half-Day Course (approximately 4 hours)
- Arrival at Hakone Yumoto Station (9:00 AM)
- Explore the station area for breakfast and souvenir shops
- Board Hakone Tozan Railway (10:00 AM)
- Get off at Tonosawa Station and explore and photograph the Demuyama Iron Bridge area
- Board Hakone Tozan Railway Again (11:30 AM)
- Travel to Gora Station and enjoy switchbacks and scenery
- Lunch (12:00 PM)
- Lunch in the Gora area
- Return Journey (1:00 PM)
- Return to Hakone Yumoto Station and enjoy a day-trip hot spring bath
Full-Day Course (approximately 8 hours)
- Arrival at Hakone Yumoto Station (9:00 AM)
- Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora Station (9:30 AM)
- View the Demuyama Iron Bridge from the train windows
- Hakone Cable Car and Ropeway (10:00 AM-12:00 PM)
- Head toward Souunzan, Owakudani, and Hakone-machi areas
- Lunch (12:30 PM)
- Tonosawa Station Area Exploration (2:00 PM)
- Carefully view and photograph the Demuyama Iron Bridge
- Hot Spring Bathing (3:30 PM)
- Enjoy a day-trip hot spring bath at a facility in Tonosawa or Hakone Yumoto
- Dinner and Souvenir Shopping at Hakone Yumoto Station Area (5:00 PM)
Seasonal Event Information
Various events are held seasonally in the Demuyama Iron Bridge area and throughout the Hakone region.
Spring Events
Hakone’s cherry blossoms typically bloom from early to mid-April. Cherry blossoms can be enjoyed around Hakone Yumoto Station and along the Hayakawa River.
Summer Events
From mid-June through early July is the “Azalea Train” season. The azaleas blooming along the Hakone Tozan Railway are spectacular. Evening illumination is also implemented, creating a fantastical landscape.
Autumn Events
From late October through mid-November is foliage season. The Demuyama Iron Bridge area gorge turns red and yellow, reaching its most beautiful time of year. Hakone as a whole becomes a famous foliage destination, bustling with many tourists.
Winter Events
Hakone Yumoto Hot Spring may host illumination events such as “Hakone Yumoto Onsen Akari Kaido” during winter. The hot spring town is wrapped in fantastical light.
Conclusion: The Charm of Demuyama Iron Bridge / Hayakawa Bridge
The Demuyama Iron Bridge (Hayakawa Bridge) in Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture, has supported the Hakone Tozan Railway for over 100 years since its construction in 1917 (Taisho 6). This bridge, designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property, continues to captivate many people as a tourism resource for Hakone and as industrial heritage, transcending its role as mere transportation infrastructure.
The views from the bridge spanning the 43-meter-deep Hayakawa Gorge are wonderful throughout the four seasons, and particularly during autumn foliage season, the colorful gorge beauty spreading below moves visitors emotionally. Please enjoy this historic bridge and beautiful natural scenery from within the Hakone Tozan Electric Train car windows or from designated viewpoints in the surrounding area.
When visiting Hakone, please spend quality time enjoying the Hakone Tozan Railway journey, which includes the Demuyama Iron Bridge / Hayakawa Bridge, combined with nearby hot springs and tourist attractions. The landscape created by railroad heritage continuing from the Taisho era and Hakone’s abundant natural beauty will surely become a memorable experience.
※Information is current as of the time of publication. Please confirm the latest information before visiting. Scenery may change depending on weather and season.
