Doro-kyo Gorge (Doro-hachijo)

Overview

Doro-kyo Gorge is located within the Yoshino-Kumano National Park, forming the border between Shin-gu City, Wakayama Prefecture; Yoshino-gun, Totsukawa Village, Nara Prefecture; and Kumano City, Mie Prefecture. Its serene beauty has been known for ages; the untouched, primeval gorge is simply overwhelming. Doro-kyo is divided into Oku-doro and Shimo-doro from the upper reaches of the Kitayama River. Shimo-doro, in particular, boasts a majestic and beautiful array of giant and strangely shaped rocks, affectionately called "Doro-hachijo" (Doro eight cho; cho is an old unit of length). The rugged cliffs and massive rocks, contrasted with the tranquil, deep waters of the gorge, shimmer with a mysterious cobalt blue, bringing an unexpected sense of calm. This scenic location transcends the ordinary, offering a profound sense of peace that will resonate long after you leave, reminding you that you're truly in Japan. The majestic rocks of Doro-kyo Gorge, the clear river, the crisp air, and the refreshing river breeze—it's the perfect “nature's refresher” for weary modern souls! In the past, propeller boats roared across the water between Shin-gu and Doro-kyo. Today, tourist jet boats ply the waters between Shiko and Doro-kyo. Recent road improvements, including the opening of the Doro-kyo Tunnel, now allow access by land from Totsukawa Village. A leisurely and picturesque river boat trip from Tado in Totsukawa Village is highly recommended. "Doro-hachijo" remains one of Japan's most beautiful scenic spots. A famous haiku is associated with this place: “A cuckoo's cry/spans three provinces/ its voice is heard.” [Anonymous] The renowned poets, Yosa Buson and Yosa Tekkan, visited this place twice. Here are two poems from their visits: “In the Ki no Kyou, I gazed on/ the blue waters of Doro; I felt/the gentle wind on my hair.” [Yosa Buson] “My little finger / could be made of silk, but / still, this water's /raft-crossing is more wonderful.” [Yosa Tekkan] Doro-hachijo, immortalized in poetry, is especially beautiful at dawn and under the moonlight. Shrouded in mist, it transforms into a fantastical landscape, a truly ethereal spectacle. Professional photographers still visit to capture stunning images for calendars and album covers. In ancient times, Doro-kyo was known as Tamaki Shrine's purification pool.