Sandankyo Gorge: Remote Spot of Chugoku Mountains, Spectacular Valley Woven by Cliffs and Deep Pools

"Sandankyo Gorge" formed by the Shibaki River flowing through Aki-Ota Town, Yamagata District, Hiroshima is one of the Chugoku region's premier gorges, also designated as a National Special Scenic Beauty and Special Natural Monument. The approximately 16-kilometer gorge with continuous cliffs, deep pools, waterfalls, and unusual rocks attracts many mountaineers and hikers especially during autumn foliage season.

Highlights of Sandankyo Gorge

Within Sandankyo Gorge, distinctive viewpoints are scattered including "Sandan Falls," "Two-Stage Falls," "Sarutobi (Monkey Leap)," and "Mizunashi Ferry." Sandan Falls is a beautiful 3-stage waterfall approximately 25 meters tall. "Sarutobi" is a curious spectacle where the rock narrowed to only 1-2 meters wide, famous for the experience of passing through in a small traditional boat (tenma-bune).

Autumn Foliage

Sandankyo Gorge's autumn foliage (late October to mid-November) is particularly beautiful, known as one of Hiroshima Prefecture's premier autumn foliage spots. The contrast of trees dyed red, yellow, and orange with the clear mountain stream is beauty worthy of being called natural art.

Hot Springs and Mountain Bounty

Near Sandankyo Gorge is "Nukui Onsen," allowing leisurely soaking after foliage and gorge sightseeing. Cuisine using mountain bounty (wild vegetables, wild boar, venison game dishes) is also enjoyable.

Access

About 1 hour 20 minutes by highway bus from JR Hiroshima Station to Sandankyo.