Breathtaking scenery of majestic columnar jointed rock faces and unique rock formations stretching for approximately 8 kilometers. In autumn, the entire mountain range erupts in fiery hues, captivating visitors.
Scenic Views
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Highlights
Magnificent columnar jointed cliffs spanning approximately 8 kilometers
Unique rock formations including Byobu-iwa (Folding Screen Rock), Tengu's Pillar Rock, and Ogre's Face Rock
Noteworthy spots such as Chaya-daki Waterfall and Matsuage-buchi
Spectacular autumn foliage, with mountains ablaze in crimson
The rich natural environment of Muro Akame Aoyama Quasi-National Park
From Kintetsu Nabari Station, take a Mie Kotsu bus bound for Yamakasu Nishi or Soni Kogen for approximately 30 minutes, and get off at either the "Koyo-dani," "Kaochi-bashi," or "Ochiai" bus stops. By car, head south on Prefectural Road 81 via Shorenji Dam, and you will enter Kaochi Valley after passing through the Kaochi Valley Tunnel. Show route
Op.Hours
Open 24/7
Cld.Days
Open daily
Fee
Free
INFO
Please be aware that some sections of the road are narrow, requiring careful navigation when passing other vehicles. Parking space is limited, so expect congestion, especially during the autumn foliage season. We recommend utilizing wider shoulders or nearby campground parking lots. Restrooms are only available in limited locations.
Kaochi Valley is a magnificent gorge situated in the upper reaches of the Shorenji River in Nabari City, Mie Prefecture, spanning approximately 8 kilometers. Its striking landscape was sculpted by andesite rock deposited by a volcanic eruption that occurred in the Muro region approximately 15 million years ago and has been continuously eroded over countless millennia. Particularly impressive are the towering columnar jointed cliffs that line both banks, a testament to nature's raw power. A diverse collection of unique rock formations, such as Byobu-iwa (Folding Screen Rock), Tengu-bashira-iwa (Tengu's Pillar Rock), Onimen-iwa (Ogre's Face Rock), and Shika-ochii-iwa (Deer Fall Rock), are scattered throughout, resembling natural works of art. Additionally, notable spots like Chaya-daki Waterfall and Matsuage-buchi add to the allure, ensuring visitors are continually captivated. The entire area boasts abundant wildlife and lush vegetation, especially during the autumn foliage season, when the entire mountain bursts into a breathtaking spectacle of crimson and gold. At this time, many tourists flock here from the Kansai and Chukyo regions, making Kaochi Valley its most vibrant. As part of the Muro Akame Aoyama Quasi-National Park, its rich natural environment is carefully preserved, allowing visitors to enjoy its ever-changing beauty throughout the year. The season of fresh greenery is equally invigorating, and in winter, a dramatic landscape with prominent rock faces emerges. We encourage you to experience with all your senses the majestic scenery woven by its history and nature through a leisurely drive or an invigorating hike. Nearby attractions such as Shorenji Dam, Soni Kogen (Soni Highlands), and Akame 48 Waterfalls are also worth visiting; combining them will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the charm of this region.
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