Guide
The Kamegamori Forest Road (officially the Ino Town Road Kamegamori Line) is a stunning 27-kilometer paved mountain road located in Ino Town, Kochi Prefecture. It runs along the ridgeline at an elevation between 1,300 and 1,700 meters. Locally, it is affectionately known as the "UFO Line," a name inspired by frequent sightings of unidentified flying objects and the majestic, soaring peaks that define the landscape. This high-altitude drive offers an unparalleled sense of openness, allowing travelers to feel the presence of the Ishizuchi Mountain Range. On clear days, the view is truly breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista that includes the Ishizuchi mountain range, Iyo Fuji, and the surrounding peaks of Higashikuro Mori and Nishi Kuro Mori, extending all the way to the Pacific Ocean and the Seto Inland Sea.
The route was developed along the ridgeline of the Ishizuchi Mountain Range, which serves as the border between Kochi and Ehime Prefectures. A notable landmark is the Kamegamori area, characterized by its gentle, plateau-like terrain. While it originally served as a functional forest road, it is now celebrated as a premier scenic driving destination. The road gained even more fame in 2018 when it was featured as a filming location for a Toyota commercial starring Ayami Nakajo and Masaki Suda.
The greatest highlight of the UFO Line is the overwhelming panoramic scenery visible from your car window. While there are no formal observation decks, there are occasional wide parking areas where you can step out to enjoy the view. Key sights include the 1,897-meter peak of Kamegamori, Iyo Fuji, and the surrounding mountains. You can also find monuments marking the headwaters of the Yoshino and Kamo Rivers, allowing you to feel the raw power of nature's origins. In areas where the view opens to the north, you can see far out toward the Seto Inland Sea, experiencing the dynamic landscape created by the dramatic changes in elevation.
The landscape transforms beautifully with the seasons. In spring, you can spot the blooming of Azalea and Rhododendron. Early summer brings lush, vibrant greenery, while autumn turns the mountainsides into a tapestry of brilliant colors. Summer is an excellent time to escape the heat, as the high altitude provides a refreshing coolness. Please note that the road is subject to seasonal closures. The route is closed during the winter months, typically from November 30th to late April. The best time to visit is between May and October.
The primary way to experience this area is through a scenic drive. The entire route is paved, providing a thrilling and refreshing driving experience through the high-altitude ridgeline. For those looking to do more than just drive, there are trailheads near Kamegamori that allow for light hiking or mountain trekking. The area near the summit is a relatively gentle plateau, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful walk while admiring the surrounding mountain ranges.
The area is surrounded by the major peaks of the Ishizuchi Mountain Range, including Ishizuchi Mountain and the Ishizuchi Skyline. These locations are highly popular among nature enthusiasts and hikers. Other notable mountain passes along the route include Shirasu Pass and Yosakoi Pass, which serve as great bases for exploring the local scenery.
Because you are driving at high altitudes, be prepared for significant temperature drops. It is highly recommended to bring a jacket or extra layers, as it can be much cooler than the lowlands. As this is a mountain forest road, please drive with caution; there are no center lines, and the terrain is steep. Please respect local etiquette by taking all trash back with you when using parking areas. Most local facilities may require cash-only payments, so please come prepared.