Oboke and Koboke Gorges

The “Oboke and Koboke Gorges” were made by the rapid current of the Yoshino River crossing Shikoku Mountains over a period of 200 million years. These gorges are eight-kilometer long and boast a beautiful landscape looking like soaring marble sculptures.

There are two theories about the origin of their strange names: they are either derived from the sound of the word “Hoki/Hoke”, an archaism meaning a cliff, or “dangerous (危) to walk　(歩) long (大) stride” (Oboke, 大歩危) and “dangerous (危) to walk (歩) short (小) steps, too”　(Koboke, 小歩危).

The Oboke Gorge has beautiful rocks and a V-shaped valley, which can be observed closely and shows how the Japanese archipelago has been formed. It makes the gorge a valuable place and was designated as a national monument by the government.

There are various ways to enjoy the beauty of Oboke and Koboke Gorges.

An “Oboke Gorge Sightseeing Pleasure Boat” takes you for a cruise to see the beautiful gorge closely. Enjoy a magnificent view spreading out in front of you with the guide of an experienced boatman.

Opening Period: All year round

The stream along the Oboke and Koboke Gorges is said to be the fastest current in Japan and is one of the world’s leading “rafting” spots.

Experience a thrilling ride with an inflatable raft going past amazing sights and getting splashed. Anyone can join in as a RAJ (Rafting Association of Japan) certified instructor accompanies you.

Opening Period: All year round

You can go on a regular sightseeing bus tour with an enjoyable guide from the bus terminal near Awa-Ikeda Station. Enjoy beautiful scenery from the bus windows and strolling through the sightseeing spots. The service includes a meal.

Opening Period: mid-March to the end of November

This seasonal trolley train runs between Awa-Ikeda Station and Oboke Station. Enjoy the beautiful gorges, looking down from the train with a pleasant breeze.

Opening Period: November

One of the prominent hot springs in Shikoku. Its magnificent nature and homely gentleness sooth visitors. You can enjoy not only staying overnight, but also a day trip taking a bath and/or having a meal.

Opening Period: All year round

Scenic beauty, the Oboke and Koboke Gorges boast amazing scenery changing from season to season. You can be amazed by different charms every time you visit.

In April, when cherry blossoms (Hachisuka cherry and Somei cherry) are in bloom around Oboke Station, it means spring has come. Rare “rock azaleas” blooming cozily on the surface of the rocks add pretty purple color to the sight between late April and early May.

Carp-shaped streamers fly in Oboke Gorge between late March and late May. They are donated from various places and displayed on the wires stretched between the Yoshino River bank and the national highway.

Would you like to come to fly carp-shaped streamers above the Yoshino River in mysterious Oboke Gorge?

Jade green water surface shines even more beautifully along the Oboke and Koboke Gorges surrounded by greenery in the season of new leaves. Feel the air of the mountain throughout your body and refresh yourself by taking advantage of negative ion effects. As the temperature rises, rafting is in its peak season.

Colorful leaves spread like old multi-colored pictures at the Oboke and Koboke Gorges in fall. The peak period to admire the colorful sight is between the middle and late November. Not only pleasure cruises but also walking is recommended to enjoy leaf viewing.

Special Oboke Gorge Sightseeing Pleasure Boat, “Kotatsu (table with a heater) boat” is in operation between December and February. The sight covered with snow is breathtaking.

After the cruise, taking a bath leisurely in a facility of Oboke Iya Hot Spring Village is recommended.

Nishiu, Yamashiro-cho, Miyoshi City

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