Guida
Ena Kyo is a magnificent scenic spot located in the middle reaches of the Kiso River, situated between Ena City and Nakatsugawa City in Gifu Prefecture. The area was named by the geographer Shiga Shigeaki in 1910. Today, it features an artificial lake created by the Oi Dam, offering a unique landscape where the raw power of nature meets human-made engineering. The cliffs on both sides are adorned with a diverse array of rock shapes sculpted by centuries of erosion.
The current landscape was shaped by the construction of the Oi Dam. While it was once a natural mountain gorge, the completion of the dam transformed it into the scenic lake area seen today, which has since developed into a popular tourist destination. The area also holds deep cultural significance; many famous poets and writers have visited this site. For instance, the renowned poet Kitahara Hakushu wrote the lyrics for "Ena Kyo Tonton-bushi," and a monument honoring his work can be found at Sazanami Park.
The most striking feature of Ena Kyo is the collection of bizarre and magnificent rock formations lining the shores. Notable shapes include the Byobu-iwa (Folding Screen Rock), Gunkan-iwa (Warship Rock), Shishi-iwa (Lion Rock), and Kagami-iwa (Mirror Rock). Additionally, the area is home to the