Momigi Suspension Bridges

Old transport routes deep in the heart of Gokanosho

By Mandy Bartok

Community writer

A view of the Ayatori Suspension Bridge in Gokanosho

Looking down from the Ayatori-bashi to the Shakunage-bashi

The Ayatori Bridge is twice as high as the Shakunage Bridge

The bridges were built from local cedar and are reinforced against high winds

The Momigi Suspension Bridges cross the Momigi River in rural Gokanosho just south of the Heike Folk Village. The longer bridge, Ayatori-bashi (Cat's Cradle Bridge) sits 35 meters above the rushing river while the shorter Shakunage-bashi (Alpine Rose Bridge) runs right next to it but slightly lower, at 17 meters above the river. The bridges were built from local cedar, and until the construction of the local road, were used by residents and schoolchildren as a way to traverse the Momigi River. In autumn, the view of the foliage-covered mountains from the bridges is memorable.

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By Mandy Bartok

Community writer

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Bryan Baier 10 years ago

Beautiful shots of the fall colors! It reminds me of the Sumatakyo in Shizuoka

Mandy Bartok Photographer 10 years ago

Thanks, Bryan! I actually visited those bridges on the Sumatakyo years ago (holy iridescent water, Batman!) but I think they scared me a bit more. Much less sway to the ones in Gokanosho!

Mandy Bartok Photographer 10 years ago

It was pretty shaky, Yui! I had to carry my daughter in a backpack because I was worried she would fall through the large openings on the side.

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Mandy Bartok Photographer 10 years ago

It definitely isn't a place for those afraid of heights!

Yui Yamaguchi 10 years ago

You have to be very brave as the bridge would shake when you're crossing!

6 comments in total

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Information

Izumimachi Momiki District Yatushiro Kumamoto Prefecture (Directions)

Bryan Baier 10 years ago

Beautiful shots of the fall colors! It reminds me of the Sumatakyo in Shizuoka

Mandy Bartok Photographer 10 years ago

Thanks, Bryan! I actually visited those bridges on the Sumatakyo years ago (holy iridescent water, Batman!) but I think they scared me a bit more. Much less sway to the ones in Gokanosho!