Guida
The Kamegamori Forest Road (officially known as the Ino Town Kamegamori Line) is a 27-kilometer paved forest road located in Ino Town, Kochi Prefecture. It runs along the ridge of the mountains at an altitude between 1,300 and 1,700 meters. Locally, it is affectionately known as the "UFO Line," a name thought to stem from the high altitude and the frequent sightings of unidentified flying objects, or perhaps the majestic, soaring peaks. This is a high-altitude driving course that allows you to feel the presence of the Ishizuchi Mountain Range up close. On clear days, the landscape is incredibly open, offering views of the Ishizuchi peaks, Iyo Fuji, Higashikuro Mori, and Nishikuro Mori, as well as the vast Pacific Ocean and the Seto Inland Sea to the south.
The route was developed along the ridge of the Ishizuchi Mountain Range, which sits on the border between Kochi and Ehime Prefectures. A notable topographical feature is the "Kamegamori" area, where the mountain top becomes a gentle, rolling plateau. While it originally served as a functional forest road, it is now widely celebrated as a premier scenic driving destination. Its popularity grew even further after it was featured as a filming location for a Toyota commercial starring Ayami Nakajo and Masaki Suda in 2018.
The greatest highlight of the UFO Line is the overwhelming panorama unfolding before your eyes. While there are no specific designated observation decks, there are several wide parking areas along the road where you can step out to gaze at the surrounding peaks. You can see the 1,897-meter peak of Kamegamori, Iyo Fuji, and other famous mountains. The area also marks the headwaters of the Yoshino and Kamo Rivers, offering a sense of being at the very source of nature. In areas where the view opens to the north, you can see the distant Seto Inland Sea, showcasing the dynamic scenery created by the dramatic elevation changes.
The natural scenery changes beautifully with each season. In spring, you can witness the blooming of Akebono Tsutsuji (Azaleas) and Rhododendrons. Early summer brings lush greenery, while autumn paints the mountains in vibrant colors. Summer is a perfect time to escape the heat and enjoy the refreshing coolness of the high altitude. However, please note that the road is subject to seasonal closures. The road is closed during the winter season, typically from November 30th to late April. Therefore, 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 sensation of driving through high-altitude ridges that is hard to find elsewhere. Additionally, near the Kamegamori summit, there are trailheads for light hiking or mountain climbing, allowing you to combine a drive with a refreshing walk. The summit area is a relatively flat, gentle plateau, making it an excellent spot for a peaceful stroll while admiring the surrounding mountain views.
The area is dotted with the major peaks of the Ishizuchi Mountain Range. Famous nearby spots include Mount Ishizuchi, the Ishizuchi Skyline, and the peaks of Higashikuro Mori and Nishikuro Mori. These locations are highly attractive for nature lovers and hikers. Other mountain passes like Shirasatoge and Yosakotoge are also located along the route, serving as great bases for exploring the surrounding landscapes.
Since you will be driving at a high altitude, please be mindful of temperature changes. The temperature can be significantly lower than in the lowlands, so it is highly recommended to bring a light jacket or extra layers. As this is a mountain forest road without a center line, please drive with extreme caution. When using parking areas, please follow local etiquette by taking all your trash home with you. It is also wise to carry cash for any local services or facilities in the vicinity.