Kankakei Gorge on Shodoshima: Famous Autumn Foliage Spot and One of Japan's Three Great Gorge Beauties

Kankakei Gorge: Shodoshima's Pride as One of Japan's Three Great Gorge Beauties

Kankakei Gorge (Kankakei), located in the center of Shodoshima, Kagawa Prefecture, is a gorge of strange rocks and sheer cliffs formed over 200 million years ago, one of "Japan's Three Great Gorge Beauties (others include Osugi-dani and Kiso River)." The mountaintop ropeway station is at approximately 612 meters elevation, with views of the Seto Inland Sea and islands spreading out below.

Ropeway and Gorge Beauty

The Kankakei Ropeway operates from "Kusagabe Port" at the base to the mountaintop. Especially during the autumn foliage season (late October to early November), the red, orange, and yellow gradations shine against the rock walls, with views from the ropeway becoming some of Japan's finest scenic views.

Four Seasons of Gorge Beauty

Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery in spring, a cool green gorge in summer, a collaboration of autumn foliage and rocks in autumn, and snow scenery in winter allow enjoyment of different beauty throughout the four seasons.

Trekking Courses

Multiple trekking courses descending from the mountaintop to the valley (approximately 1–2 hours) are maintained, offering the powerful experience of walking between strange rocks and sheer cliffs. The standard course is ascending by ropeway and descending on foot.

Access

Bus from Shodoshima's Kusagabe Port to the Kankakei Ropeway boarding point (approximately 15–30 minutes). Shodoshima is accessible by ferry from Takamatsu Port, Himeji Port, and Okayama Port.