Gokei Gorge

In the northern part of Soja, Okayama, upstream of the Makidani River, Gokei Gorge is one of the prefecture leading scenic places. Many strange rocks and cliffs rise, led by Mount Tenchu at three hundred thirty meters and Tsurugimine, and their rugged beauty harmonizes with clear streams and autumn foliage to form grand natural scenery. The age of the granite and the richly varied rock forms are said to be without comparison, and it ranks among Japan five great gorges.

Its value has long been recognized, and in 1923 it was designated a national scenic site. Gazing up at the rock peaks and listening to the murmur of the clear stream as you walk, you can feel yourself wrapped in the great power of nature.

Highlights

- The strange rocks and cliffs led by Mount Tenchu at three hundred thirty meters. The force of the rock peaks rising toward the sky is breathtaking. - The richly varied granite beauty. The forms created over long ages hold your gaze. - The foliage spreading along the river. The harmony of clear stream, strange rocks, and coloring trees is breathtakingly beautiful.

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring fresh greenery colors the strange rocks, spreading refreshing valley beauty. In summer you can stroll while feeling the cool beside the clear stream. In autumn, from late October to mid November, the foliage reaches its peak, with coloring trees lining about two hundred fifty meters along the river, the finest season for Gokei. In winter, in clear air, the silhouettes of the rocks stand out even more.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Makidani, Soja, Okayama - A visit by car is the norm. It is located upstream of the Makidani River. - There is a walking path along the gorge to enjoy the rocks and clear stream. - The foliage season gets crowded, so visit with time to spare.

A Quick Tip

The peak foliage period gets crowded, so an early morning visit lets you enjoy it quietly. The path along the gorge is easy to walk, but mind your footing when approaching the rocky areas. To take in the strange rocks, viewing the whole from a little distance conveys their grandeur even better.