Momijidani Suspension Bridge
森林の駅/もみじ谷大吊橋
A 320 m pedestrian suspension bridge over a dam lake in Shiobara. Stroll slowly across the water and take in the mountain and lake scenery of each season.
A 320 m suspension bridge across a dam lake
The Momijidani Suspension Bridge is a pedestrian-only suspension bridge in the Shiobara Valley in Nasushiobara, Tochigi Prefecture. It spans the lake of the Shiobara Dam and is 320 m long.
It is a type of pedestrian suspension bridge without stiffening girders (the structure that normally reinforces the deck), and Nasushiobara City describes it as one of the largest bridges of this type on Honshu, Japan's main island. From the bridge you can look out over the mountains of the Shiobara Valley and the lake.
Autumn leaves are the highlight
True to its name (momiji means autumn maple leaves, and dani means valley), the surrounding mountains turn red and yellow in autumn, and the colours are mirrored on the lake. According to Tochigi Tabi Net, the prefecture's tourism site, the leaves are usually at their best from early to mid-November, though this varies from year to year. Other seasons, such as the time of fresh spring greenery, offer different views too.
In 2013 it was chosen as a "Lovers' Sanctuary" (a nationwide designation for date spots at tourist sites), and there is a heart-shaped bench, among other touches.
The Mori no Eki and getting there
At the foot of the bridge is the Mori no Eki ("forest station"), which houses a restaurant and a shop selling local specialities.
From JR Nasushiobara Station or Nishi-Nasuno Station, take a JR bus to the Momijidani Otsuribashi stop, then walk about 5 minutes. By car, it is about 15 minutes from the Nishinasuno-Shiobara Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway, following Route 400 towards Shiobara Onsen. There is a free car park.
There is a fee to cross the bridge (prices were revised in October 2026). Opening hours vary by season, so check the official information from Nasushiobara City or the facility.
Tips
- It lies on the road to Shiobara Onsen, so it is an easy stop on the way to or from a hot spring trip.
- In winter (November to March) it closes earlier. If you are going in the late afternoon, keep an eye on the time.
Sources
- もみじ谷大吊橋|那須塩原市 (opens in a new tab)
- もみじ谷大吊橋|栃木県観光物産協会 とちぎ旅ネット (opens in a new tab)
- 森林の駅/もみじ谷大吊橋|とちぎナビ (opens in a new tab)
Updated 30 September 2026. Opening hours and prices change, so check the official site before you go.