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Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge (Miyazaki): Walk Above the Forest, Views, Height & Sway, Access

Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge (Miyazaki): Walk Above the Forest, Views, Height & Sway, Access
Aya Teruha is a spectacular pedestrian suspension bridge stretching over a vast evergreen forest in Miyazaki. This guide covers what you’ll see from the bridge, the best photo spots, how long to plan, what the height and sway feel like, and how to get there for an easy nature day trip.

Highlights

Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge Highlights

Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge is a pedestrian suspension bridge spanning an evergreen broadleaf forest, offering both a thrill and a refreshing sense of openness as you look down over the woods.

Scale & Thrill

At 142 m high and 250 m long, the bridge delivers dramatic views into the deep valley, along with noticeable sway in strong winds and a heart-racing feeling underfoot.

Seasonal Views of the Evergreen Forest

The forest seen from the bridge is one of Japan’s largest evergreen broadleaf forests, registered as a UNESCO Eco Park, and its scenery changes from fresh greenery in spring to autumn colors.

Take a Deep Breath on the Trails

Beyond the bridge is an Eco Park course in the evergreen forest of about 2 km in total, and a forest-bathing walk takes about 1 hour.

Best Lookout Points

Observation decks in the area offer sweeping views of the evergreen forest, and late afternoon is good for sunset; the decks are also popular for photography.

Access

About 50–60 min by car from central Miyazaki and about 70 min from Miyazaki Airport (free parking) / about 90 min by bus from Miyazaki Station.

Hours, Fees & Suggested Time

Apr–Sep: 8:30–18:00; Oct–Mar: 8:30–17:00 / admission: 500 yen for high school students and above, 350 yen for elementary and junior high students / crossing only takes about 10 min, or about 30 min if you stop to enjoy the views.

For the latest information, please refer to official announcements or check on site.

What Is Aya no Teruha Ōtsuribashi? A Thrilling Walk on One of Japan’s Largest Pedestrian Suspension Bridges

Aya no Teruha Ōtsuribashi (綾の照葉大吊橋, Aya no Teruha Ōtsuribashi) in Aya Town, Higashimorokata District, Miyazaki Prefecture, is a pedestrian-only suspension bridge on a truly impressive scale.

Spanning the evergreen broadleaf forests of the Teruha zone within Kyushu Chūō Mountain Range Quasi-National Park, it’s a popular spot to feel nature up close.

✅ A thrilling suspension bridge: 142m high and 250m long

✅ Panoramic views over the lush Teruha forest

✅ Seasonal scenery: autumn colors and fresh spring greenery

Why not take a breathtaking walk in the sky while breathing in the great outdoors?


Top Things to Do at Aya no Teruha Ōtsuribashi

1. A thrilling skywalk on a 142m-high, 250m-long suspension bridge

Aya no Teruha Ōtsuribashi is a pedestrian-only suspension bridge with an overwhelming scale: 142m high, 250m long, and 1.2m wide.

What makes the crossing so exciting

  • Look down from the bridge to see a deep gorge stretching below
  • The floor is a metal grating, so you can see straight through beneath your feet
  • It sways gently in the wind—an attraction for anyone who loves heights

The gorge views beneath your feet are truly spectacular.

It takes about 10–15 minutes to cross one way. Even if you’re not a fan of heights, walking slowly can make it feel manageable.

2. Teruha forest | spectacular scenery in every season

The Teruha evergreen broadleaf forest around Aya is known for its rich natural environment.

Because it’s made up of evergreen broadleaf trees, it stays green even in winter.

The changing beauty throughout the year is a must-see.

Spring (March to May): vivid new greenery and fresh air all around

Summer (June to August): deeper greens and refreshing forest bathing

Autumn (late October to mid-November): maples turn color, creating a striking contrast with the evergreen Teruha forest

Winter (December to February): crisp air and a quiet forest, where you can feel the strength of the evergreens

In the autumn foliage season, the bridge and colorful leaves create a beautiful contrast, drawing many visitors.

3. A scenic trekking route through the Teruha forest

After crossing the bridge, you’ll find a nature trail of about 2 km.

The route follows the mountainside and lets you enjoy forest bathing as you walk—perfect for hiking lovers.

Recommended ways to enjoy

  • Walk the trekking route (time needed: about 40 minutes to 1 hour)
  • Enjoy birdwatching and insect spotting (you might encounter rare wildlife)
  • Take a deep breath while looking out over the gorge

Along the trail, you’ll pass “Kajika Bridge,” where you can view the gorge up close.

Some sections are fairly steep, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Depending on weather and maintenance, parts of the trail may be closed—check local guidance on-site before you go.

4. Learn about nature at the Teruha Forest Culture Museum

Before the suspension bridge, you’ll find the “Teruha Forest Culture Museum”, where you can learn about the ecosystem and local nature of this region.

Exhibition highlights

  • Explanations of the three-layer forest structure: shrub layer, sub-canopy, and canopy
  • Introductions to plants and animals living in the area
  • Displays about the value of natural environments and conservation

Stopping by before you cross helps you understand the forest more deeply and enjoy your walk even more.

5. Enjoy Aya Town’s local food

Aya Town is known as a place of organic farming, and its fresh local ingredients make for great food.

After visiting the bridge, be sure to try Aya’s local specialties.

Recommended foods

  • Miyazaki beef steak (a well-regarded brand beef, known for receiving high evaluations in competitions such as the National Wagyu Ability Competition)
  • Charcoal-grilled local chicken (a famous Miyazaki specialty, juicy and fragrant, great with shōchū)
  • Aya craft beer and local sake (at “Aya Shusen no Mori,” you can sample and tour shōchū and local beer)

It’s the perfect way to round out a day of nature and fresh air.


Helpful Travel Info for Visitors

1. How to get to Aya no Teruha Ōtsuribashi

By car

  • About 45–60 minutes from central Miyazaki
  • About 60 minutes from Miyazaki Airport
  • About 30 minutes from Miyazaki-Nishi IC on the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway
  • Parking available (free)

By bus

  • From Miyazaki Station, about 60 minutes by bus to Aya Town (from within Aya Town, you’ll need a taxi or car)

Public transport is somewhat inconvenient, so renting a car is recommended.

2. Opening hours and admission

Opening hours

  • April to September: 8:30–18:00
  • October to March: 8:30–17:00
  • Open year-round

Admission

  • Adults (high school and up): 500 yen
  • Elementary and junior-high students: 350 yen

The typical time needed, including the suspension bridge and nature trail, is about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Hours and fees vary by season, so checking official information in advance is recommended.


Summary

✅ Experience a thrilling skywalk on a 142m-high, 250m-long suspension bridge

✅ Enjoy forest bathing with panoramic views over the Teruha forest

✅ Trekking routes with seasonal scenery are another major highlight

✅ Local food like Miyazaki beef and charcoal-grilled chicken adds to the trip

✅ About 1 hour by car from central Miyazaki—ideal for a nature-filled day trip



Frequently Asked Questions

A. The Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge is a pedestrian-only suspension bridge that is 250 m long and 142 m high. The middle can feel the most wobbly, so walking slowly rather than stopping can feel steadier and also helps reduce photo blur.
A. The bridge fee is 350 yen for elementary and junior high students and 500 yen for high school students and above. Opening hours are 8:30-18:00 from April to September and 8:30-17:00 from October to March. Close to the gate-closing time, crossing can feel rushed, so it’s best to start with enough buffer.
A. The Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge is in Aya Town’s nature area, and driving makes it easy to pair with nearby forests and cafes. After arriving, crossing the bridge first and taking a break afterward can help you avoid losing momentum if it’s crowded.
A. The scenery changes by season, and on clear days the forest greens can look especially three-dimensional. In autumn foliage season it can get busier, so finding photogenic angles near the bridge entrance can make the visit feel easier even with crowds.
A. Because of the height, it can feel intimidating if you’re not comfortable with heights. Keeping your gaze on the distant forest and not staring at the grating underfoot can make it feel less scary, and it’s also fine to try just a few dozen steps from the end first.
A. The area pairs well with nature walks, and even a short stay can feel satisfying with a “forest plus suspension bridge” combo. Since walking adds up, planning a cafe break by counting back from your return time helps you avoid overdoing it.
A. The bridge is windy and can get slippery underfoot, so sneakers are a safe choice. On rainy days, rainwear is safer than an umbrella because it keeps your hands free, and a waterproof phone case makes taking photos easier without worry.
A. A quick out-and-back crossing can be done in a short time, but photo stops can extend your visit. To stay relaxed even on busy days, plan with enough buffer for the crossing, photos, and a break.

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