Nishizawa Keikoku

Nishizawa Keikoku, in Yamanashi City, Yamanashi, is a spot of gorge beauty representative of the Oku-Chichibu area, where emerald clear streams and falls large and small run in succession. As you follow the walking path held in deep forest, only the sound of flowing water and birdsong echoes, letting you forget the noise of the city. Cleansing energy fills the gorge, and it is a place where you can feel the healing power of nature itself with your whole body.

The highlight is the Nanatsugama Godan no Taki, chosen among the finest waterfalls in Japan. The form woven by its seven basins and five tiers is beautiful, and the contrast of the emerald basins and white spray captivates every visitor. The loop course also uses a former forest railway track for its return leg, offering a varied mountain walk.

Highlights

• The beauty of emerald, crystal clear streams
• The Nanatsugama Godan no Taki, chosen among the finest waterfalls in Japan
• Varied gorge beauty with falls large and small in succession
• A loop path that follows the trace of a former forest railway
• Cleansing, healing energy filling the deep forest

Enjoying the Seasons

From spring into early summer the fresh green is dazzling and forms a vivid contrast with the clear streams. In summer the coolness born of forest and water is pleasant, perfect for escaping the heat. In autumn the mountains of Oku-Chichibu turn to red and gold and the gorge reaches its most brilliant scene of the year. The walking path is often closed in winter, so check conditions before you go.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: Mitomi, Yamanashi City, Yamanashi
• Access: By bus toward Nishizawa Keikoku from JR Enzan Station, getting off at the Nishizawa Keikoku entrance (some services run seasonally)
• Parking: Use the lot near the gorge entrance
• Admission: Free

Practical Travel Notes

• Best season: The fresh green of May and June, and mid-October to early November when autumn leaves color the gorge, are especially beautiful.
• Avoiding crowds: On weekends in the autumn leaf season the parking area and path grow crowded, so an early morning arrival is best.
• Time needed: The loop course is a full mountain walk of around 10 kilometers, so allow roughly four to five hours including breaks, and plan within your fitness level.
• Nearby spots: Combined with Daitakesan Nagato Shrine in the same Mitomi area and the roadside station Michi no Eki Mitomi, you can fully enjoy the nature of Oku-Chichibu.
• Budget feel: Admission is free, and even including transport, parking, and food, it can be enjoyed reasonably.

A Quick Tip

The gorge path is a full mountain walking course that takes several hours to complete a loop. Set out in sturdy shoes and easy clothing, and bring something to drink. There are winter closures and weather closures, so checking in advance brings peace of mind. Walk slowly and feel the cleansing energy of nature.

📚 Sources

This article draws on the Nishizawa Gorge guidance published by Yamanashi City and the local tourism association, explanations of the Nanatsugama Godan-no-taki chosen among Japans Hundred Famous Waterfalls, and information on the loop path and its winter closure. The path is often closed in winter, and weather can also cause closures. Since fees and times may change, please confirm the citys or associations official information before you visit.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: The loop is a proper mountain walk of around ten kilometres; allow four to five hours with breaks.
• What to prepare: Wear sturdy shoes and easy-moving clothes and carry drinks.
• Check the season: The path is often closed in winter, so check conditions before you go.
• Avoiding crowds: Car parks and paths are busy on foliage weekends, so arrive early in the morning.
• Nearby stops: Combine with Otakesan Nagato Shrine and the Mitomi roadside station in the same area.