Bungy Japan Ryujin Bungy

Bungy Japan Ryujin Bungy stands as Japan's premier permanent bungee jumping destination, operating from the striking Ryujin Suspension Bridge in Hitachiota, Ibaraki Prefecture. The bridge itself was completed in 1994 as a pedestrian observation platform, stretching 375 meters across Ryujin Gorge at a height of 100 meters above the dam lake below. At the time of its opening, it ranked as the second longest conventional suspension pedestrian bridge in the world and remains the longest on Japan's main island. The bridge takes its name from Ryujin, meaning "dragon god" in Japanese, inspired by local legends of a dragon inhabiting the gorge and the serpentine shape of the river itself when viewed from above.

The bungee operation launched in March 2014, established by Beau Retallick from Australia and Charles Odlin from New Zealand, the same adventurers who introduced bungee jumping to Japan in 1995. The 100-meter jump held the distinction of being Japan's highest bungee until 2020, when Gifu Bungy opened at 215 meters. The bridge's blue steel towers are designed to evoke dragon imagery, with viewing platforms built into the structure that allow non-jumpers to watch from below. The surrounding Ryujin Gorge forms part of the Oku-Kuji Prefectural Natural Park, offering dramatic seasonal views particularly during autumn when the valley fills with colorful foliage.

Jumpers experience a full free-fall from a platform suspended beneath the bridge walkway, plunging toward the lake surface before being hoisted back via electric winch. The sensation of flying through the forested valley has made Ryujin Bungy one of Japan's most sought-after adrenaline experiences, attracting over 10,000 jumpers annually. The bridge can accommodate up to 3,500 people at once and features transparent floor panels that give visitors a direct view of the gorge below. Beyond the jump itself, the area offers hiking trails, the nearby Takyu Shrine, and local buckwheat noodles known as soba.

The jump costs ¥19,000 for first-time participants, with a second jump on the same day priced at ¥8,000. Repeat visitors with certification and ID pay ¥11,000. GoPro footage and digital images are included in the price. Participants must be at least 15 years old and weigh between 40 and 105 kilograms. Those with heart conditions, epilepsy, high blood pressure, bone disorders, recent surgeries, or other medical concerns must inform staff in advance, though these conditions do not automatically disqualify participation. Advance reservations are essential, particularly on weekends and holidays, as walk-ins may face waits of up to three hours.

The bridge itself charges a separate crossing fee of ¥300 for adults and ¥200 for children under high school age for those who wish to walk across without jumping. Spectators can access the jump platform for an additional fee to experience the height and watch jumpers up close. The site closes during severe weather conditions including high winds and thunderstorms. Ryujin Suspension Bridge hosts seasonal events throughout the year, including the Koinobori Festival during Golden Week in late April and May when thousands of carp streamers line both sides of the bridge, the Ryujin Gorge Lantern Festival in mid-August with hundreds of illuminated lanterns, and the autumn Momiji Matsuri in November celebrating the fall colors.

To reach Ryujin Bungy by public transport, take the JR Suigun Line to Hitachiota Station, then board an Ibaraki Kotsu bus bound for Iriai or Baji Iriguchi, disembarking at the Ryujin Otsuribashi stop. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes by bus, with only 3-4 buses daily, so checking schedules in advance is critical. Alternatively, a taxi from Hitachiota Station takes about 35 minutes. By car, the bridge is accessible via Route 349, approximately 50 minutes from Naka IC or 80 minutes from Mito IC on the Joban Expressway. Parking is available near the bridge, though lots fill quickly during peak autumn and festival periods.