Osugidani Gorge

Also called the “unexplored region of the Kinki region,” Osugidani Gorge is one of Japan’s three great gorges, along with Kurobe Gorge and Kiyotsukyo Gorge, and is listed as one of the 100 most unexplored regions in Japan.

It is also the starting point for climbing Mount Odaigahara in Yoshino Kumano National Park, where the entire mountain is designated as a special natural monument.

This is a scenic area with pristine virgin forests, numerous waterfalls, and huge rocks in the valley, led by Nanatsugama Falls, one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan, and a high rainfall area.

This is one of the best gorge courses in Japan, where you can walk while viewing emerald green streams and hundreds of majestic waterfalls.

The Oosugidani Trail, a 14-kilometer-long, beautiful path with a 1,200-meter elevation gain, is a series of rapids and cliffs in the canyon and many thrilling suspension bridges.

The contrast between the towering rocks and the waterfalls seen from between them makes for a superb view of Shishibuchi.

Climbing the stairs behind the power station, a suspension bridge quickly appears at the first point “Dainichikura,” where you have to proceed carefully with a chain.

Next is a series of viewpoints: Nouya Suspension Bridge, Jigokudani Suspension Bridge, Hiura Cedar Suspension Bridge, Byodokura Suspension Bridge, and Kamosuke Suspension Bridge. Once you get there, you can stay overnight at Momonoki-Yama-no-Ie (Peach Tree Mountain House).