Futatsuno Ohashi Bridge is an exciting suspension bridge in Totsukawa Village, Yoshino District, Nara Prefecture, connecting the Yamateya area with Kuwahata. Measuring 193 meters long and standing approximately 35 meters above the ground, it offers an exhilarating crossing with impressive views of the emerald-green waters of Futatsuno Dam Lake below. As the bridge gently sways beneath your feet, the experience provides a memorable change from everyday life and a chance to appreciate the dramatic mountain scenery.
The bridge is more than a tourist attraction: it also serves as an everyday crossing for residents of settlements on the eastern side. Located on the Futatsuno Village Road, it is a relatively simple pedestrian suspension bridge despite its name, which means “Great Bridge.” Its engineering is also noteworthy. Because it is a long-span suspension bridge without stiffening trusses, it incorporates two sets of wind-resistant cables, positioned above and below the main cable system, to improve rigidity and stability.
Several other suspension bridges around Futatsuno Dam Lake offer different perspectives on the surrounding landscape. Sarukai Bridge measures 131 meters in length and stands about 34 meters above the ground. Located near Totsukawa Onsen, it is a convenient stop for visitors exploring the hot spring area and its scenic surroundings.
Kominoe Bridge, near Totsukawa High School, is 161 meters long and approximately 19 meters high. From the bridge, visitors can enjoy a sweeping view of Futatsuno Dam Lake. Its lower height compared with some of the area’s other suspension bridges may appeal to those who would rather take their time admiring the scenery.
Futatsuno Dam was completed in 1962 as an arch dam built across the Totsukawa River system. The reservoir created by the dam, Futatsuno Dam Lake, covers approximately 200 hectares. Located alongside National Route 168, it is relatively easy to visit while traveling through the mountainous southern part of Nara Prefecture.
Surrounded by forested mountains, the lake provides habitat for a variety of waterbirds. From November through March, it becomes an important wintering ground for mandarin ducks, and more than 2,000 birds have sometimes been recorded in the area. The western, or left, bank of the reservoir has no roads or settlements and retains extensive evergreen forests of chinquapin and oak. These trees produce acorns, an important food source for mandarin ducks, helping maintain an ideal winter habitat.
Continue south from Futatsuno Dam along National Route 168, and Junidaki Falls comes into view on the right-hand side. The waterfall is said to have a drop of approximately 80 to 100 meters. Although its flow is relatively modest, the falls have a quiet, understated beauty that contrasts with the rugged mountain landscape around them.
Because the waterfall is close to the national highway, it is a convenient stop for drivers and hikers traveling through the region. In autumn, the surrounding mountains turn shades of red, orange, and gold, creating especially beautiful scenery around the falls.
Many other waterfalls, both large and small, are scattered throughout Totsukawa Village. Exploring the area offers plenty of opportunities to appreciate the region’s abundant natural beauty, from forested mountains and clear rivers to dramatic cascades and peaceful lakeside views.