Learn more about the beautiful Iya region of Japan from Don George, Editor in Chief of GeoEx’s award-winning travel blog, Wanderlust: Literary Journeys for the Discerning Traveler:

Located in the central part of the island of Shikoku, the Iya Valley is the smallest of Japan’s four principal islands. Deep gorges have carved out green mountains, creating a magnificent landscape, in this secluded and little-visited area.

Completely isolated for a thousand years, this spectacular region has remained untouched by modern life. These landscapes, as well as the life of the villages, were introduced to Western readers by American author and Japan expert Alex Kerr in his acclaimed book, “Lost Japan.” Recently, Iya has begun to attract international attention. In 2018, it was the only Japanese region chosen by Travel + Leisure magazine for its list of 50 top travel destinations.

Visitor highlights include walking across the swaying Kazurabashi vine bridge, traveling by boat through the dramatic Oboke gorge, lazing in hot springs looking onto the forested mountains, and staying in renovated traditional farmhouses. We hope this video will inspire you to include the Iya Valley in your travel plans!

Learn more about the GeoEx trip Journey to Ancient Japan:

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