Geibikei Gorge
Map
Geibikei is a gorge about 2 kilometers long along the Satetsu River in Ichinoseki, Iwate Prefecture. Continuous cliffs tens to a hundred meters high, formed by the erosion of Paleozoic limestone, line the river. It was designated a Place of Scenic Beauty of Japan in 1925 and selected among the 100 Landscapes of Japan in 1927, and the scenery enjoyed along with the boat ride changes its look with the seasons.
Nature Info
- Type
- Gorge and limestone terrain
- Elevation
- Gorge length about 2km; cliffs several tens of meters to 100m high
- Access
- About 5 minutes on foot from Geibikei Station on the JR Ofunato Line to the Geibi Tourist Center.
History & Origins
The name Geibikei comes from the shape of a huge rock on the opposite bank resembling a 'lion's nose' (geibi). It has long been known as a scenic spot, and was designated a Place of Scenic Beauty of Japan in 1925. The boat ride follows a traditional style in which the boatman poles the boat while singing the 'Geibi Oiwake,' and it developed into a full-scale tourist attraction in the 1970s.
Highlights
On the boat ride, the boatman sings the 'Geibi Oiwake' and moves up and down the clear stream with a single pole. At the 'Okogeibi Rock' at the end of the route, there is a hole into which visitors throw clay balls called 'untama,' a popular good-luck experience. The gorge is especially splendid with wisteria in May and autumn leaves in October and November.
Visitor Guide
Tickets for the boat ride are bought at the Geibi Tourist Center. The round-trip boat ride takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. Travel light, and depending on the season, bring protection against the cold. Capacity is limited, so reservations in advance are recommended in busy periods.
Best Season
Autumn leaves in October and November and wisteria in May are especially popular. Boat rides also run in part during winter, and the gorge in the snow has its own charm.
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