Kankakei Gorge / Tonosho Town, Shozu District, Kagawa Prefecture

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Kankakei Gorge is one of Shodoshima's most famous scenic spots, characterized by the beautiful scenery of strangely shaped granite rocks and cliffs that line the valley. It has been popular with islanders and travelers since ancient times, and you can enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons, with the autumn foliage in particular being known as one of the prefecture's best sights. You can easily climb to the top of the valley on the Kankakei Ropeway, and the views from the walking trails and observation decks are also appealing. On a clear day, you can see the Sanuki Plain and the distant islands of the Seto Inland Sea.

Highlights

• View from the ropeway: You can see the valley from above, so you can get a panoramic view of the strange rock formations and the beauty of the valley. The colors change dramatically depending on the season.
• observation deckThere are several observation spots on the summit and mid-mountain, where you can enjoy the contrast between the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea's many islands and the mountainside.
• Walking trails and hiking trails: There are trails ranging from short walks to full-scale mountain paths, all of which are suitable for observing nature and taking photos.
• Strange rocks/cliffs: You can see the unique rock surface and shape created by weathering of granite. It is also an interesting geological spot.
• Four Seasons SceneryEach season has its own charm: the fresh greenery of spring, the young leaves of early summer, the autumn foliage, and the tranquility of winter.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

There is no railway on Shodoshima, so you will first need to take a ferry from a port on the Honshu or Shikoku side to get to the island. Below is an example of a typical access route. Operating hours and travel times will vary depending on the departure point and season, so we recommend checking in advance.

• From Shikoku (Takamatsu)High-speed boats and ferries operate from Takamatsu Port (Takamatsu City) to Tonosho Port. The journey time is approximately 30 to 60 minutes depending on the type of boat.
• From Honshu (Okayama area)Ferries also operate from Uno Port in Okayama Prefecture and from Himeji. The journey time varies depending on the route (it can take around 60 to 120 minutes).
• Traveling within the islandAfter arriving at Tonosho Port, take a local bus or sightseeing bus such as the Shodoshima Olive Bus from Tonosho Bus Terminal to the Kankakei Ropeway station. The journey takes about 15 to 30 minutes. Taking a taxi is also convenient.
• Access by car: Car and bicycle rentals are available on the island, and Kankakei Gorge can be accessed by car. There is a parking lot near the ropeway station (fees apply, parking spaces are limited).
• ropeway: You can take the Kankakei Ropeway and ascend to the summit in a short time. Please check the official website for operating hours and cancellation information.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Just take the ropeway round trip and visit the observation decks at the summit and mid-mountain: 1 to 1.5 hours
• A leisurely stroll, including the promenade (including taking photos and taking breaks): 2-3 hours
• If you plan to take your time hiking the trails or combine it with sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day

Nearby spots

• Shodoshima Olive Park: Cinematic and photogenic landscapes, olive trees and Mediterranean landscapes.
• Angel Road: A sandy road that appears when the tide goes out, and is a popular photo spot along with the islands on the opposite shore.
• Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village: A tourist facility where you can enjoy the filming set and exhibits from the movie "Twenty-Four Eyes."
• Soy sauce breweries (Marukin, Yamaroku, etc.): You can observe soy sauce production, sample the products, and purchase local specialties.
• Roadside stations and observation spots around Kankakei: You can enjoy souvenirs and local cuisine.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: The ropeway, observation deck, and parking lot are particularly crowded during the autumn foliage season, Golden Week, and summer vacation. It is best to leave early and visit on weekdays.
• Weather and operation status: The ropeway may be suspended on windy days or in bad weather. Please check the operation information in advance.
• Clothing and equipment: Please bring a jacket as the wind is strong on the mountain and there are large temperature differences. The footing on the trails can be unstable in places (mud and rocky), so wear comfortable shoes.
• Safety precautions: It is dangerous to photograph or enter cliffs or rocky areas. Please obey fences and no-entry signs.
• Manners: Please be sure to take your trash with you and refrain from collecting plants or stones. Please be considerate to preserve the quiet environment.
• Seasonal precautionsIn summer, the sun is strong, so wear a hat and stay hydrated. In winter, take precautions against the cold and be careful of frozen roads.
• Check transportation options: Ferries to the island have limited service at certain times and during certain seasons, so be sure to check the return boat and bus schedules and plan well in advance.
• Use of drones, etc.: There are regulations and etiquette for flying drones. Please follow the rules within tourist areas.

Kankakei is a spot where you can easily enjoy the dynamic beauty of the gorge. It changes its appearance with each season, so we recommend searching for highlights that suit the time of your visit. Be sure to check the official operating information and transportation times in advance.