Deep in the mountains of Shikoku lies Iya, which is home to a few small settlements. The steep, narrow and misty valley is the stuff of lore. In the 12th century it was a haven for fugitive Heike ...

Deep in the Iya Valley, a mountainous region in western ... Long vines were grown on each side of the river and then woven together. If enemies were seen approaching, the bridge could easily ...