Yamanori Gorge and Fudo Falls

In Hiruzen, Maniwa, Okayama, Yamanori Gorge is a beautiful valley ringed by giant rocks reminiscent of an ink landscape painting. Beyond a walking path of about four hundred meters, Fudo Falls rises into view with a drop of about twenty meters, forming splendid valley scenery together with the clear stream. It is a place where you can feel plenty of natural energy even in a short time.

Upstream from the gorge, untouched natural beech forest remains, alive with much rare nature. In the beech forest live wild birds such as the blue and white flycatcher and the ruddy kingfisher, and in the stream live river fish such as the yamame trout, while a rare wasabi field can be seen nearby.

Highlights

- The valley beauty ringed by giant rocks. The landscape like an ink painting makes you pause. - Fudo Falls with its twenty meter drop. The force of the water pouring down the rock face is overwhelming. - The natural beech forest spreading upstream. Strolling while listening to birdsong is exceptional.

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring fresh leaves bud and the beech forest is wrapped in vivid green. Summer brings a clear stream and rock gorge that are cool and refreshing, perfect for a retreat. At the trailhead, flowing somen noodles can sometimes be enjoyed during summer. In autumn foliage colors the gorge, and the contrast of giant rocks and coloring trees is splendid. In winter it is wrapped in snow, showing a quiet and solemn expression.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Hiruzen, Maniwa, Okayama - A visit by car is the norm. It can be accessed from the Hiruzen Highland direction. - The walking path is about four hundred meters long. You can walk all the way to enjoy Fudo Falls. - As this is a mountain area, watch for snow and frozen roads in winter.

A Quick Tip

The walking path is left in its natural state, so wear comfortable shoes. The gorge rocks are slippery when wet, so mind your footing as you proceed. In summer, combining a visit with Hiruzen Highland sightseeing lets you enjoy a highland drive and the cool of the gorge in one day.