Map
Naruko Gorge is a gorge formed by the Otani River in the Naruko Onsen area of Osaki, Miyagi Prefecture, with cliffs 80 to 100 meters deep continuing for about 4 kilometers. It is known as Miyagi's leading autumn leaves spot and is a scenic area included in Kurikoma Quasi-National Park. In autumn, deciduous broad-leaved trees turn red, yellow and orange, creating a spectacular view.
Nature Info
- Type
- Gorge
- Elevation
- Gorge depth 80-100m, length about 4km
- Access
- About 5 minutes by taxi from Naruko-Onsen Station on the JR Rikuu East Line, or about 20 minutes on foot to the observation deck at Ofukazawa Bridge.
History & Origins
Naruko Gorge is a natural gorge formed by the long-term erosion of the Otani River, and together with the surrounding Naruko Onsen area it has long been loved by hot spring convalescents. It is designated a Place of Scenic Beauty of the prefecture, and it is so established as an autumn destination that a seasonal bus called the 'Momiji-go' (Autumn Leaves Bus) runs during the autumn leaves season.
Highlights
The view from the Oofukasawa Bridge (Rest House Naruko Gorge) is especially famous, and the autumn leaves gorge seen looking down from the bridge is a magnificent sight. The shape of the gorge changes from V-shaped to U-shaped, and the scenery varies from place to place, with widths from 10 m to 100 m. Hot spring areas such as Naruko Onsen and Kawatabi Onsen are scattered around.
Visitor Guide
The main viewing spot is near the rest house around the Oofukasawa Bridge. If traveling by car, park in the parking lot and walk. Late October to early November, the peak of the autumn leaves, is very crowded, so an early-morning visit is more comfortable. Combining it with a stay at Naruko Onsen also allows you to enjoy the quiet scenery of morning and evening.
Best Season
The best season for autumn leaves is mid-October to early November. Fresh greenery in May to June also offers a refreshing gorge landscape. In winter, some walking paths are closed because of snow.
Related Spots
All →Shikoku / Kochi
Ryugado Cave
Ryugado is one of Japan's Three Great Limestone Caves, in Kami, Kochi Prefecture…
Hokuriku / Fukui
Tojinbo
Tojinbo is a sea cliff facing the Sea of Japan in Ajima, Mikuni-cho, Sakai, Fuku…
Koshinetsu / Nagano
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Jigokudani Monkey Park, in Yamanouchi, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture, i…
Tohoku / Iwate
Geibikei Gorge
Geibikei is a gorge about 2 kilometers long along the Satetsu River in Ichinosek…