Demountain Iron Bridge (Hayakawa Bridge) Complete Guide｜Registered Tangible Cultural Property and Autumn Foliage Scenic Spot in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture
The Demountain Iron Bridge (Hayakawa Bridge) that spans the Hayakawa Gorge in Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a historically significant structure representative of the Hakone Tozan Railway and a spectacular scenic spot visited by many tourists during the autumn foliage season. Built in the Taisho era, this iron bridge is designated as a registered tangible cultural property and enjoys high popularity among railway enthusiasts and photography lovers.
This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting, including the historical background of the Demountain Iron Bridge, its structural characteristics, the best time to see autumn foliage, shooting spots, and access methods.
What is the Demountain Iron Bridge (Hayakawa Bridge)?
The Demountain Iron Bridge is a railway bridge located in the section of the Hakone Tozan Railway from Tonosawa Station to Ohdaira Station, or more precisely, between Tonosawa Station and Demountain Signal Point. Its formal name is “Hayakawa Bridge,” but locals know it affectionately as “Demountain’s Iron Bridge.”
This bridge spanning the deep Hayakawa Gorge boasts dimensions of approximately 43 meters in height and 60.96 meters in length, with the Hayakawa River flowing far below, forming a landscape of deep mountain solitude. It is selected as one of “Kanagawa’s 100 Bridges” and has become one of the representative tourist attractions in the Hakone area.
Historical Background and Value as a Cultural Property
The Demountain Iron Bridge was completed on May 31, 1917 (Taisho 6), making it a valuable railroad heritage with over 100 years of history. In 1999 (Heisei 11), it was designated as a registered tangible cultural property by the national government, officially recognizing its historical and technological value.
Particularly noteworthy is the fact that this bridge utilizes one span from the nineteen-span Tenryu River Bridge completed in 1888 (Meiji 21). With upper and lower chord members made of steel and web members of wrought iron, it is a valuable structure that tells the story of Japan’s railroad technology development from the Meiji through Taisho periods.
Bridge Structure and Technical Characteristics
Double Wren Truss Structure
The Demountain Iron Bridge employs a steel double wren truss form. The wren truss uses triangles as basic units and is characterized by efficiently distributing loads. This structure made it possible to construct a stable bridge across the deep gorge.
Characteristics of the Construction Method
During construction, the entire temporary support works were used from the river bed to a height of 43 meters. This was construction utilizing the pinnacle of civil engineering technology at the time, demonstrating the high level of technical skill in overcoming the challenging terrain conditions of the deep gorge.
The large bridge spanning 60.96 meters in length and 60 meters wide across a deep valley represents the culmination point of railroad construction technology in the Taisho era and holds significant importance in civil engineering history.
Spectacular Views from a Bridge Designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property
The greatest appeal of the Demountain Iron Bridge is the spectacular view of the Hayakawa Gorge from the bridge. The Hayakawa River flowing 43 meters below and the rich natural landscape covering both banks present different expressions throughout the four seasons.
Spectacular Scenery During Autumn Foliage Season
Particularly during the autumn foliage season, the entire gorge turns red and yellow, allowing visitors to enjoy a brocade-like landscape spreading below. When the Hakone Tozan electric train crosses the iron bridge during the peak foliage period, the train implements a service of stopping briefly on the bridge, allowing passengers to slowly savor the spectacular autumn foliage views from the train windows.
This thoughtful service is unique to the Hakone Tozan Railway and is welcomed by many tourists. The moment the view opens after exiting the tunnel and the autumn foliage gorge spreads before you is truly breathtaking.
Spring and Summer Seasons
Not only autumn foliage but also the fresh greenery and deep green periods from spring through summer are attractive. The gorge enveloped in vibrant green, combined with refreshing air, provides healing to all who visit.
Best Time to View Autumn Foliage and How to Enjoy It
Autumn Foliage Color Change and Best Viewing Period
The autumn foliage around the Demountain Iron Bridge typically begins to color in early November. Broadleaf trees centered on Japanese maple gradually change to red and yellow, with the peak foliage period occurring from mid-November to late November.
The timing of color change varies slightly depending on altitude and temperature, so it is recommended to check the latest foliage information before your visit. Information updated on websites of Kanagawa Prefecture, Hakone Town’s tourism information sites, and the Hakone Tozan Railway’s official website will be helpful.
Views from the Hakone Tozan Electric Train
The most convenient way to enjoy the spectacular views of the Demountain Iron Bridge is to ride the Hakone Tozan electric train. When heading from Tonosawa Station toward Ohdaira Station, upon exiting the tunnel, the view suddenly opens and the autumn foliage gorge spreads below.
During the foliage season, there is a brief stoppage service on the bridge, allowing you to savor the scenery slowly from the train windows. The view from the right side window in the direction of travel is particularly excellent.
Appeal as a Photography Spot
The Demountain Iron Bridge is also known as one of Hakone’s premier photography spots. Among railroad enthusiasts and photography lovers, photographs capturing the moment the mountain railway train crosses the iron bridge are popular.
The locations suitable for photography are limited, and photography must be conducted with safety in mind. Avoid trespassing on private property and photography in dangerous locations; enjoy photography while respecting proper etiquette.
Access Methods and Surrounding Information
Access via Hakone Tozan Railway
Access to the Demountain Iron Bridge is most convenient by using the Hakone Tozan Railway. Travel from Hakone Yumoto Station toward Tonosawa Station and cross the bridge between Tonosawa Station and Ohdaira Station.
Travel times from major stations:
- From Hakone Yumoto Station to Tonosawa Station: approximately 5 minutes
- From Odawara Station via Hakone Yumoto Station: approximately 30 minutes
Using advantageous tickets such as the Hakone Free Pass makes travel within the Hakone area even more convenient.
Access on Foot
If you wish to view the bridge from the outside, it is possible to access it on foot from the area around Tonosawa Station, but great care is necessary due to the steep terrain. Limit viewing to public roads and avoid entering dangerous areas.
Nearby Hot Spring Facilities
When visiting the Demountain Iron Bridge, you can enjoy Hakone’s hot springs at nearby facilities. Within a 10-kilometer radius there are numerous hot spring facilities offering day-use bathing and accommodation.
Major hot spring facilities:
- Tonosawa Ichinomiyu Honkan: One of the hot spring inns closest to the bridge
- Hakone Yunomori: Popular as a day-use hot spring facility
- Yu no Sato Okada: Large-scale day-use hot spring facility
- Hakone Yumoto Onsen Tenseiden: Distinctive for its garden open-air bath
- Hakone Parks Yoshino: Long-established inn with private hot spring
- Yoshiike Ryokan: Traditional inn famous for its Japanese garden
- Hakone Tabi no Yado Umoto: Inn with a homey atmosphere
- Hakone Kamon: Modern Japanese-style inn
- Yumoto Fujiya Hotel Yu-dokoro Souun: Day-use bathing also available
Combining a visit with these hot spring facilities makes Demountain Iron Bridge tourism even more fulfilling.
Charm of the Hakone Tozan Railway
The Demountain Iron Bridge is particularly famous among the many bridges of the Hakone Tozan Railway, but the entire Hakone Tozan Railway serves as an attractive tourism resource.
Switch-back and Steep Gradients
The Hakone Tozan Railway is Japan’s only full-scale mountain railway and employs three switch-back systems to overcome the maximum gradient of 80‰ (per mile). This unique operational method is popular not only with railroad enthusiasts but also with general tourists.
Highlights Along the Line
From Hakone Yumoto to Gora, there are many highlights along the line. The early river rapids, famous hydrangea spots, and hot spring town scenery change with the seasons, and the views from the train windows never become boring no matter how many times you ride.
Precautions When Visiting
Safety Precautions
The area around the Demountain Iron Bridge has steep terrain, requiring careful attention to safety.
- Entry into railway property is strictly prohibited
- Photography should be conducted from safe locations
- Avoid unauthorized entry into private property
- Be careful with photography on slippery surfaces
Crowded Periods
The area around the Demountain Iron Bridge is particularly crowded during the autumn foliage season, especially on weekends in mid-November. The Hakone Tozan electric train is often fully booked, so planning with adequate time is recommended. Visiting on weekdays or early mornings is relatively less crowded.
Weather-Related Impacts
During rainy weather or when typhoons approach, train operations may be suspended for safety reasons. Additionally, the best foliage viewing time is affected by weather and temperature, so confirm the latest information before your visit.
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
By combining a visit to the Demountain Iron Bridge with nearby tourist attractions, you can make your Hakone tourism more fulfilling.
Tonosawa Hot Spring Area
Tonosawa is one of the Seven Hot Springs of Hakone with a historic hot spring town atmosphere. You can enjoy hot springs in a quiet setting, and day-use bathing facilities are well-equipped.
Ohdaira Onsen Area
The area around Ohdaira Station is also known as a hot spring destination, with good access to the Hakone Open-Air Museum of Sculpture. You can combine art appreciation with hot spring bathing.
Hakone Yumoto Hot Spring
Hakone Yumoto, the gateway to Hakone, features numerous souvenir shops and dining establishments, bustling with activity as a hot spring town. A riverside walking path along the Hayakawa is well-maintained, allowing you to enjoy the gorge scenery.
Seasonal Attractions
The Demountain Iron Bridge is particularly famous during the autumn foliage season, but it offers different charms throughout the four seasons.
Spring (March–May)
New greenery begins to bud and the entire gorge is enveloped in pale green. The iron bridge viewed in spring’s soft light creates a calm and gentle impression.
Summer (June–August)
The deep green intensifies and the gorge becomes a landscape full of vitality. The water volume of the Hayakawa increases, and the sound of the mountain stream becomes pleasant to hear. Hydrangeas bloom in June, and the Hakone Tozan electric train becomes popular as the “Hydrangea Train.”
Autumn (September–November)
The most popular season is autumn foliage. From mid-November to late November, the entire gorge turns red and yellow, presenting the most vibrant landscape of the year.
Winter (December–February)
After the leaves fall, winter accentuates the structural beauty of the iron bridge. With clear air, visibility extends far on many days, and the serene atmosphere is appealing. During snowfall, the rare sight of the iron bridge surrounded by snow can be observed.
Historical Railroad Heritage of Hakone
The Demountain Iron Bridge is an indispensable presence in telling the history of the Hakone Tozan Railway. Since its completion in Taisho 6, it has transported numerous tourists to Hakone for more than 100 years.
Its designation as a registered tangible cultural property means that it has been recognized not merely as a tourism resource but as a valuable cultural heritage demonstrating the development of Japanese railroad technology that supported Japan’s modernization.
The fact that it utilizes components from the Tenryu River Bridge built in the Meiji era speaks to the wisdom and ingenuity of engineers of that time in creating new value while cherishing resources.
Summary: Fully Experiencing the Charm of the Demountain Iron Bridge
The Demountain Iron Bridge (Hayakawa Bridge) in Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a rare tourist attraction where historical value and natural beauty converge. The registered tangible cultural property iron bridge, completed in 1917, spans the Hayakawa Gorge at a depth of 43 meters, offering spectacular views resembling a brocade landscape, particularly during the autumn foliage season.
By riding the Hakone Tozan electric train, the view opens upon exiting the tunnel and allows you to savor the gorge’s beauty. During the foliage season, there is a brief stoppage service on the bridge, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at leisure.
Numerous hot spring facilities in the surrounding area make it possible to enjoy tourism combined with hot springs. When visiting the Hakone area, be sure to fully experience the charm of the Demountain Iron Bridge. The spectacular view created by history and nature will surely become a memorable experience.
When visiting, conduct yourself with attention to safety and respect for etiquette while treasuring this valuable cultural property and beautiful natural landscape.
