Tanise Suspension Bridge

The Tanise Suspension Bridge, which spans the Totsu River (Kumano River), is 297.7 meters long and 54 meters above the surface of the river, making it the longest suspension bridge in Japan for daily use.

It is known as one of the village’s tourist attractions because of the thrilling sensation it provides as it sways and shakes as you walk on it.

Especially during Golden Week and the Bon Festival, the bridge is so crowded with people that one-way traffic is restricted.

Visitors can enjoy a thrilling walk in the air while admiring the scenery of the surrounding mountains and the clear waters of the Totsukawa River.

Built in 1954, it was the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan at the time, but in 1994 it was overtaken by the Ryujin Suspension Bridge in Ibaraki Prefecture.

The central part of the suspension bridge is only 80 centimeters wide, and is supported by steel wires and horizontal timbers that are passed every 30 centimeters, so that the river and riverbanks are clearly visible at one’s feet.

Therefore, there is a warning sign that says, “Due to the danger, no more than 20 people should be on the bridge at the same time.

During busy periods, monitors may be posted and one-way traffic may be restricted. The suspension bridge is open to visitors free of charge all day, but a temporary toll bus will take visitors back from the other side of the river.

This suspension bridge was built by the people of Tanise village, who contributed 200,000 to 300,000 yen per household to support their own livelihood, which was equivalent to two to three years of a teacher’s starting salary at the time. It is truly a sightseeing spot built by the power of the people.