This is a large, 777-meter-high suspension bridge for sightseeing that spans the Kyusuikei Valley near the Kumamoto Prefecture border at the foot of the Kuju Mountain Range. The 173-meter-high, 390-meter-long suspension bridge, Japan's tallest pedestrian bridge, offers a thrilling view of the surrounding valley and is a popular observation spot.
After two and a half years of building, the bridge was completed in 2006. The name "Kokonoe “Dream” Suspension Bridge" was selected from a public competition. The two main wires supporting the bridge are made up of seven 53-mm-diameter wires, and are designed to withstand 1,800 adult passengers weighing 65 kg each. Kokonoe Town raised the entire construction cost of around 2 billion yen on its own, with no subsidies from the national or prefectural governments. In 2017, more than 10 million people visited the bridge.
From the bridge, visitors can view the “Shindo-no-Taki” Falls and Medaki Falls, which have been selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan. There is also a “thrill spot” in the middle of the bridge, a small glass window that allows visitors to see down to the bottom of the valley, 173 meters below, and take pictures.
Highlights
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It is the highest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan with a height of 173 meters.
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The Odaki “Shindo-no-Taki” Falls have been selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan.
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Visitors can look down through the “thrill spot” in the middle of the bridge.
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The Kyusuikei Valley’s autumn hues are spectacular in the fall.
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Pets and umbrellas are not permitted. (Pet care service and lockers are available)
