There was no escaping those crowds though, particularly since we wanted to cross Togetsukyo Bridge, that spanned the Oi River.

There were barriers, traffic wardens, and constant announcements on the town’s PA system. It really was full-on.

The Japanese really love their white gloves when in official roles!

But strangely most people seemed to do an about-turn as soon as they reached the other side. We weren’t complaining.

There were even higher hills on this side of the river. We decided to climb the wooded Iwatayama. The path was sure steep, but scenic.

And there was something special at the end of it, too.