TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kiyotsukyo Gorge is a deep V-shaped gorge located in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture. Its beauty was carved by the Kiyotsu River over many years of erosion. The scenery, interwoven with sheer rock walls and pure mountain streams, changes with each season, and is especially popular during the seasons of fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and snow. In recent years, the promenade and viewing spot (an observation space using mirrors) built inside the tunnel, known as the "Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel," has attracted attention, and the area is being developed as a tourist destination.
Highlights
- Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel: A tunnel-shaped promenade dug along the gorge. You can get a close-up look at the gorge from several lookout points.
- Mirror Room: A mirrored space at the end of the tunnel. The canyon reflected in the mirrors visually expands, allowing for unique landscape photos.
- Beautiful valleys and sheer cliffs: The natural rock formations, steep cliffs, and clear rivers are perfect for taking photos.
- Four Seasons:
- Spring: Meltwater and fresh greenery
- Summer: Deep greenery and a place to escape the heat (feel cool)
- Autumn: Peak season when the leaves color the gorge
- Winter: Snow-covered, tranquil scenery (check your equipment and road conditions)
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Iiyama Line, Tokamachi direction, "Tokamachi Station" or "Echigo Yuzawa Station" (varies depending on route). Many tourists head via Echigo Yuzawa. *Routes and connections vary depending on the departure point, so please check the timetable in advance.
- Bus: Tourist buses (bound for Kiyotsukyo Gorge) operate from Tokamachi Station and Echigo-Yuzawa Station, but the number of buses varies depending on the season and day of the week. There are fewer buses, especially in winter and on weekdays, so be sure to check the timetable.
- By car: Approximately 40-70 minutes (depending on the starting point) via national and prefectural roads from Echigo-Kawaguchi IC or Shiozawa-Ishiuchi IC on the Kan-etsu Expressway. There is a parking lot at Kiyotsukyo Gorge, but it can get crowded during the autumn foliage season.
- Estimated travel time (transportation):
- From Tokyo by car: Approximately 3 hours (varies depending on traffic conditions)
- Public transportation from Tokyo: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours (Joetsu Shinkansen + conventional trains or buses)
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel Walk: Approximately 1-1.5 hours (including leisurely photo opportunities)
- Stay including walking around the area and taking photos: About half a day (2-3 hours)
- If you also want to visit nearby tourist spots: A one-day trip to Kiyotsukyo Gorge, Bijinbayashi, and the rice terraces at Hoshitoge makes a great option.
Nearby spots
- Bijinbayashi: A beautiful walking spot through a beech forest. You can enjoy the different scenery in each season.
- Hoshitoge Rice Terraces: One of Japan's most beautiful rice terrace landscapes. Famous as a spot to take photos of sunrises and sunsets.
- Echigo-Tsumari region: One of the venues for the Art Triennale, where you can enjoy Satoyama art and local culture.
- Matsunoyama Onsen and Tokamachi Onsen: Hot springs where you can relax after exploring.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion:
- It gets very crowded during the autumn foliage season, Golden Week, and summer weekends, and there can be long lines, especially at the parking lot and at the tunnel entrance.
- During peak times, it's best to visit early in the morning or in the evening as it will be less crowded.
- Safety/Clothing:
- The trail has some uneven and slippery sections, so please wear comfortable walking shoes (trekking shoes or sneakers).
- In winter, snow and ice accumulate, so studless tires, chains, and warm clothing are required.
- traffic:
- Public transportation may have limited service at certain times, so please check return bus and train times in advance.
- Please check information on snow accumulation and road closures. The weather can change suddenly, especially in mountainous areas during the winter.
- Manners:
- Please be sure to take your trash with you when you leave the park, and please be mindful of smoking and fire in designated areas.
- Please be considerate of your surroundings and do not make too much noise or damage plants or rocks.
- Please check beforehand as drone use may be restricted.
- others:
- The tunnel and observation area can become crowded with people taking photos, so please be considerate of others when taking photos.
- For the latest information on facility opening hours, closing days, and event information, please check the official website or local information center.
(Note) Transportation route names, timetables, and facility opening and closing times may change depending on the season and year. Please check the official website or local tourist information for the latest information before visiting.
