Tucked deep in the mountains of Shizuoka Prefecture’s Sumata Valley, the Yume no Tsuribashi [夢の吊橋] is one of Japan’s most visually arresting suspension bridges. Spanning 90 meters over the emerald-toned waters of Oma Dam Lake, it’s often described as dreamlike, and it lives up to the name. With thick forests on either side and tranquil water beneath, the scene feels almost surreal, especially on misty mornings.

The bridge has gained widespread attention for its ethereal beauty, especially among hikers, photographers, and fans of “healing spots” [パワースポット] in Japan. What makes it so striking isn’t just the color of the water, which ranges from turquoise to a glowing cobalt depending on light conditions, but the entire setting: untouched nature, steep cliffs, and the soft sway of the bridge beneath your feet. While not featured directly in the Yuru Camp anime, the area’s adventurous appeal and hidden-on-the-map charm share a similar spirit.

After crossing the bridge, visitors climb a set of 304 steep stone steps through the forest, eventually reaching an observation point with panoramic views of the valley. It’s a short but intense hike, with a few benches along the way to rest and take in the scenery. Most visitors complete the entire loop trail in about an hour, but it can feel longer due to the elevation gain and the slow pace during busy seasons.

The area is a true four-season destination. Spring brings lush greenery and fresh mountain air, summer is wrapped in deep forest shade, and autumn paints the hillsides in dramatic reds and golds, drawing serious crowds. The water’s famous blue-green glow is most vivid on sunny mornings, especially when the sunlight creates a Tyndall effect through the mist rising off the lake, giving the entire bridge a floating-in-a-dream sensation.

Although access to the bridge is technically free, visitors are encouraged to contribute a 500-yen maintenance fee, which helps preserve the fragile natural surroundings. During peak times, the bridge is limited to 10 people at a time, and one-way foot traffic may be enforced to ease congestion. Keep in mind that the approach involves narrow, winding mountain roads and limited parking, best suited for confident drivers or those comfortable with tight turns.

For photographers, early morning is ideal, especially between 8AM and 10AM when the light is soft and crowds are thinner. Drones are prohibited, and tripods may be difficult to use due to the bridge’s swaying motion and narrow width. Handheld shots from either side of the bridge, or from the observation deck above, work best.