Kanawa Island in Hinodecho, Oita Prefecture, appears to be an ordinary couple's rock from a distance, but as you get closer, a large hole created by wave erosion reveals itself. This formation, visible only during low tide, truly deserves to be called a "hidden gem of Japan." I took this photo to convey the beauty of the shapes carved by nature.

🐉✨What if the Dragon God appeared in Shosenkyo Gorge...?✨🐉 This is an AI-generated image inspired by Kakuen Peak, the main peak of Shosenkyo. Kakuen Peak is a rocky peak approximately 180 meters high, and it is said to have been named after a monk named Kakuen who once practiced Zen meditation at its summit. Shosenkyo is also said to be a pathway for the flow of good energy known as the "Dragon Vein," which extends from Mount Fuji to the Imperial Palace. As I recall these stories, I wonder, "If the Dragon God resided on Kakuen Peak, what would it look like...?" This image was born from such imagination.😊 Of course, the Dragon God hasn't actually appeared, but while walking in Shosenkyo, one can often feel a mysterious power and stories within the majestic rocky peaks and canyon scenery. When you visit Shosenkyo, take a moment to look up at the sky and the rocky peaks, and imagine your own version of a dragon! *The image is an AI-generated illustration.* #Shosenkyo #Yamanashi Tourism #Power Spot #AI Art #Generative AI

Hello, this is the En'emon Heritage Museum. As June begins, Shosenkyo Gorge is entering its best season, showcasing vibrant lush greenery🌿 The massive rock tunnel known as "Stone Gate" along the walking path in Shosenkyo. The enormous rock above hangs in an unstable shape yet remains completely still, with its tip slightly separated from another rock. You will surely experience its thrilling grandeur. The summer light streaming in from beyond the gate, combined with the fresh deep green scenery, feels like an entrance to another world✨ Pass through the Stone Gate and recharge with the refreshing energy of summer. At our store, we offer a variety of raw stones and jewelry, including newly arrived unique amethysts💎 The amethyst geode in the photo displays a gentle purple color that beautifully stands out as a piece of room decor. When you visit Shosenkyo, please stop by. We sincerely look forward to your visit😊

Hello, this is the Shosenkyo Gorge Tourism Association. Yesterday we enjoyed a clear blue sky. The first photo is Senga Falls. Even after mid-February it still wears ice, crashing down with a thunderous roar and an overwhelmingly powerful presence. A crisp, wintry beauty unique to the season spreads across the scene. The second photo is Kakuen Peak. Its silhouette, emblematic of Shosenkyo Gorge, looks like a sumi-e ink painting. Please enjoy the contrast of stillness and motion that stands out in the clear air. There are vistas you can meet only in winter. We sincerely look forward to your visit. #Shosenkyo Gorge #Senga Falls #Kakuen Peak #Yamanashi Tourism #Winter Scenery

Hello from the Shosenkyo Tourist Association 😊 The autumn colors at Shosenkyo are gradually giving way to signs of winter. Rain and wind have started to strip leaves from the trees, but you can still enjoy autumn foliage around Kakuen Peak to Senga Falls for a little while longer 🍁✨ Golden leaves glowing in the sunlight, a carpet of soft fallen leaves underfoot, and the sound of the waterfall echoing through the quiet gorge… As in the photo, what you see now is the unique beauty of late autumn. A walk while listening to the rustle of falling leaves is a special experience available only in this season. Please come and enjoy the remaining autumn colors 🍂🌈

Hello, this is the Shosenkyo Tourist Association 😊 The mountains are starting to prepare for winter, but you can still enjoy beautiful autumn foliage 🍁 This seasonal gradation is a rare, indulgent sight available only now ✨ At Senga Falls today, many visitors were taking photos as well 📸 In the clear air, you can hear the waterfall powerfully plunging down. When sunlight breaks through, a faint rainbow may appear if you're lucky… 🌈 Catching that moment feels like receiving a gift from nature 🎁 From now on, Shosenkyo will gradually take on its winter attire Leaves will fall, and the dynamic sculpted cliffs and the waterfall’s force will stand out even more. Come experience the one-of-a-kind expressions nature creates, visible only at this time ✨ We sincerely look forward to your visit 🥾🌿 *The photos were taken on November 24.*

Hello. I'm Minamoto ☺️ The hot days continue, but Shosenkyo Gorge feels cool with its abundant greenery. It's a great season to soothe yourself with forest bathing while listening to birdsong and enjoying the green 🌳🍃. As the babble of the mountain stream and the powerful rush of Senga Falls fill the air, walk the well-maintained path that threads between the rocks and feel the strength and gentleness of nature all around you. Enjoy the thrill of passing beneath a large overhanging rock face and the beauty of the greenery reflected on the water ✨ The entire Shosenkyo area is a power spot that cleanses the mind and body ♪ After your walk, please enjoy shopping and dining in the Takiue Area, the Crystal Road. 😊 All our staff look forward to welcoming you from the bottom of our hearts.

Hello, I’m Minamoto 😃 Shosenkyo Gorge is now in the season when plants thrive and the fresh green leaves dazzle the eye 🌱 A cool breeze and the murmur of clear streams soothe the soul♪ Enjoy the beautiful fresh greenery alongside the gorge’s magnificent scenery! The whole Shosenkyo area is a power spot where your mind and body feel purified! After strolling through Shosenkyo, pass through the torii gate of Kanazakura Shrine in the Takigami area ⛩️ and enjoy shopping and dining along the Suisho Kaido (Crystal Road). Come to Shosenkyo to boost your luck!! Our entire staff looks forward to welcoming you.

Hello 😃 This is Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls shop! In early summer at Shosenkyo Gorge, the fresh green leaves sparkle while a cool breeze and the murmuring clear stream soothe the soul. Senga Falls pours down over jagged rock faces in a truly spectacular scene. You are sure to be moved by this work of nature.🍃 And here is a recommendation perfect for this season! We have launched “Delaware Cloudy Sparkling Wine.”🍇🍾 Its fruity, sweet-and-tart flavor spreads pleasantly with gentle bubbles. Chilled, it delivers a refreshing lift that blows away humid heat in an instant. Enjoyed in nature, it will soothe all your senses.☺️ On the terrace we offer a relaxing space where you can feel the river’s babble up close.🌿 There are plenty of photo spots too, so you can capture a memory with cute ornaments or the falls as a backdrop.📸✨ Shosenkyo shows a different face with each season. Please enjoy a special wine moment here alongside the spectacular fresh-green views available only now.♪ We sincerely look forward to your visit 💚

Hello 😃 This is the Yamanashi Wine Kingdom main building. While Shosenkyo Gorge is of course lovely on sunny days, the scenery wrapped in the quiet of a rainy day is exceptional. The rugged rock faces shrouded in mist create a dreamlike scene like an ink wash painting, making you feel as if you’ve stepped into another world ✨ A about a five-minute drive from the upper waterfall area brings you to the Shosenkyo Arakawa Dam. The sweeping view over Lake Nosen, formed by the dam, is breathtaking! The mountains and mist reflected on the calm lake surface compose a picture-like beauty. Shosenkyo Gorge is now entering the heart of spring 🌸 Come and experience the season as cherry blossoms and fresh green leaves paint the landscape.

Hello 😃 This is Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls shop. It was warm just a few days ago… where has spring gone? Yesterday, snow fell in Shosenkyo Gorge, transforming the area into a winter scene ❄️ Senga Falls is also dusted with snow, creating a magical sight 🙃 This may be the last snowy landscape before true spring arrives. Meanwhile, Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls shop has already received wines that won prizes at the spring-themed Sakura Award 🌸 wine competition! We have wines that won the top Diamond Trophy 🏆 from Maruki Budoshu, as well as other award-winning wines ☺️ Some wines are available in limited quantities, so please stop by Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls shop when you visit Shosenkyo Gorge! It’s still chilly, so we’ll keep the store warm and look forward to your visit 😌

Hello, this is Shosenkyo Crystal Sound. The cold days continue for a while yet. At Shosenkyo Gorge you can enjoy winter-only scenery. The dramatic Sengataki Waterfall is not to be missed. Spray from the falling water catches the sunlight and sparkles even more beautifully. The air is clear and feels wonderfully refreshing. Take a peaceful walk through quiet Shosenkyo Gorge. The birthstone for February, amethyst ✨, carries meanings such as sincerity, inner peace, love, and mental stability. Amethyst is said to calm the mind, and placing it by your pillow is believed to help with a good night’s sleep. We also offer a wide selection of natural stones and gemstones, so please stop by. We look forward to meeting many smiling faces 😊

Hello 😊 This is Jewelry Town. The air in Shosenkyo Gorge is crisp in winter, and on clear days you can see the sheer rock face of Kakuenzan peak in sharp detail — it’s truly dramatic! Fewer tourists visit at this time of year, so you can relax and fully enjoy the vast natural scenery 🌳 At our shop we offer a variety of natural stones, including amethyst, the February birthstone, and rutilated quartz, which is popular for attracting financial luck 💎 Please stop by and enjoy the winter beauty of Shosenkyo Gorge ☺️

Hello 😃 This is Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls shop! Cold days continue, and at Shosenkyo Gorge you can enjoy winter-only spectacles, such as spray frozen onto the rock face of Senga Falls ❄️ After a day of winter sightseeing in Shosenkyo, please stop by our shop to finish your visit! The interior is warm, and we offer a relaxed space where you can enjoy choosing wine 🍷✨ We especially recommend wines for mulled wine that suit this season, the richly sweet Blueberry Wine, and gift sets in charming packaging perfect for Valentine’s Day 🎁! At the tasting corner you can sample wines produced in Yamanashi Prefecture, so please try and find your favorite bottle. We also sell local snacks that pair well with wine! They make great souvenirs from your trip or thoughtful gifts for someone special. Warm your heart during winter in Shosenkyo. Everyone on staff at Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls shop looks forward to welcoming you 😊

Hello everyone, this is the Shosenkyo Gorge Tourism Association. We were blessed with good weather yesterday and the day before, and many people visited. The autumn foliage is gradually progressing, so please come and visit Shosenkyo Gorge this fall.

Hello 😃 This is Nakamura from Yamanashi Wine Kingdom 🍷 😊 Even though it’s October and the days can still be warm, the mornings and evenings have become completely cooler. Shosenkyo Gorge is beginning to show some autumn colors 🍁 The weather is very pleasant for a walk ☺️ Around Senga Falls there are already some spots starting to change color. At Yamanashi Wine Kingdom, the new wines have been released. Ahead of Yamanashi Nouveau, Delaware Nouveau is now on sale ♪ Delaware has a tart, sweet-and-sour fresh flavor 😊 Kyoho is fruity with a gentle mouthfeel ☺️ Please enjoy the distinctive taste of the new wines ♪ When you visit Shosenkyo Gorge, please stop by 😄

Hello! This is the Shosenkyo Gorge Tourism Association. Today was a clear, pleasant day. It’s a season to fully enjoy the blue sky, green trees, and the beauty of nature. Take care to avoid heatstroke and sunburn by drinking water regularly and applying sunscreen so you can have a great time! #Shosenkyo Gorge #Mitake Shosenkyo #Mitake Shosenkyo #Yamanashi Prefecture #Yamanashi #Kofu City #Kofu #tourism #travel #Yamanashi trip #Yamanashi sightseeing

Hello 😃 This is the Shosenkyo Tourism Association! Today we visited Itajiki Valley Great Waterfall. The roughly 30-meter waterfall sits unspoiled by any man-made structures, offering a mysterious, untouched natural scene. The spray from the falls brings a coolness that makes it a perfect power spot for hot summer days 💦 Please be sure to visit Itajiki Valley Great Waterfall, a hidden gem of Shosenkyo Gorge. For directions and detailed information, please refer to the Shosenkyo Tourism Association website. We look forward to welcoming you to Shosenkyo.

Hello 😀 This is the Shosenkyo Gorge Tourism Association. The rainy season has finally ended and summer vacation is here — the sightseeing season has arrived! Come and visit Shosenkyo Gorge 😆 The first photo shows the familiar Kakuempou, the main peak of Shosenkyo Gorge, rising about 180 meters. See the majestic rock mountain with your own eyes. The second photo shows Senga Falls. This roughly 30-meter waterfall chills only the area around it, offering a refreshing coolness. The third photo shows the fissure in the earth directly behind Senga Falls. Don’t miss the spectacular sight of the towering split rock. We look forward to your visit 🙂

Hello, this is the Shosenkyo Tourism Association 😊 On cloudy days, Kakuempō at Senga Falls looks as if the clouds have descended within arm’s reach, giving it a uniquely charming atmosphere. The dull weather has continued, but all the staff at the tourism association are full of energy 💪 When you visit Shosenkyo, please be sure to stop by the various shops and enjoy a wonderful time 🙂

Hello, I’m Gen 👋 In June, when fresh green leaves appear, many visitors enjoy the gorge’s scenic beauty from the riverside promenade at Shosenkyo Gorge. The standard trekking route is an out-and-back of about 6 kilometers‼️ (Duration: about 1 hour 30 minutes). Starting from Nagatoro Bridge, the gateway to Shosenkyo Gorge, you walk along while admiring the strange rock formations and soon reach Tenkorin, a prefectural natural monument. If you continue along the riverside promenade, you will arrive at Yume no Matsushima. *This is a photo spot with a view of Kakuembou* 📸 If you go further, you’ll find the huge natural arch stone gate, and after about a 500-meter walk you’ll come upon the dramatic Senga Falls! Before the rainy season begins, take your time strolling the promenade and enjoy the seasonal scenery‼️

Hello everyone, this is the Shosenkyo Tourism Association. The mitsuba azaleas along the promenade are blooming in vivid colors. Listen to the sound of the mountain stream and refresh your body and mind as you admire the cute pink mitsuba azaleas. We also spotted buds that are about to open, so you can enjoy them for a while.

Hello 😊 This is Waraji, a Koshu regional cuisine restaurant. In March, sunlight in Shosenkyo Gorge grows warmer, and you can gradually feel the arrival of spring. Waraji’s traditional house has been renovated from a historic building dating back to the Edo period (about 150 years ago). The pillars and tables are made from fine timber, so while you enjoy the warmth of the wood, please savor our signature dishes, starting with hoto. In particular, the eel skillfully prepared by our veteran chefs is thick and tender; when coated with the sweet-and-savory secret sauce, it will surely keep you reaching for your chopsticks. We look forward to welcoming you and serving you a warm meal from the bottom of our hearts 😃

Hello 👋😃 This is Crystal Sound. As March arrives, it’s gradually getting warmer 🎵 The skies over Shosenkyo are clear and the river’s water is pristine. At the Crystal Sound Crystal and Gem Museum, a beautiful amethyst dragon welcomes you at the entrance ✨ We’ve also just received new pearl items 🎵 Please come and see the stones while enjoying the scenery ✨ All our staff look forward to welcoming you 😇

This is Senga Falls at Shosenkyo Gorge. The photo was taken at about 1:00 PM, and when sunlight hits around noon a rainbow appears, creating a beautiful sight. The drop is about 30 meters. The day after rain brings an even more powerful flow of water to enjoy. Come and visit Shosenkyo Gorge during spring break. The gorge's walking trails should be at their best for mitsuba azalea blooms. We will post updates on social media. Look forward to it 🙂 Date photographed: 2024/3/4

This view is from Nagatoro Bridge at Shosenkyo Gorge. Hello, this is the Shosenkyo Tourism Association. From the "oldest concrete bridge in Yamanashi" you can look out over the ravine of Shosenkyo. Crossing this bridge at the entrance to Shosenkyo might make your heart race with the thought, “At last, Shosenkyo!” 😊 Please come and visit Shosenkyo during spring break. The Mitsuba azaleas along the gorge’s promenade should be in full bloom. We will announce updates via social media. Look forward to it 🙂 Date photographed: 2024/3/4

Hello! This is the Shosenkyo Tourism Association. Shosenkyo in Yamanashi Prefecture, designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty by the nation, has long been celebrated as Japan’s most beautiful gorge, sculpted by nature over the ages. We introduce the artistic splendor of Shosenkyo, worthy of being called a natural masterpiece, in a Cool Japan video. What is Mitake Shosenkyo? Mitake Shosenkyo is a roughly 5-kilometer gorge in the northern part of Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, surrounded by rich nature. If you come by car, it’s about 40 minutes from the Chuo Expressway Kofu Showa IC. By train, take a bus or taxi from the south exit of Kofu Station for about 30 to 45 minutes. The natural forms shaped over long ages continue to captivate many visitors. With its scattered strange rocks and stones and seasonal beauty, this place makes you want to return time and again. In spring, stroll the promenade surrounded by fresh greenery; in summer, enjoy activities like canoeing on the reservoir; and in autumn, admire the gorge dyed bright red with fall foliage. History of Mitake Shosenkyo Mitake Shosenkyo was designated a national Place of Scenic Beauty in 1923 and upgraded to a Special Place of Scenic Beauty in 1953. Together with Teishaku Gorge (Hiroshima Prefecture), Nagato Gorge (Yamaguchi Prefecture), Goukei Gorge (Okayama Prefecture), and Bed of Sleep (Nagano Prefecture), it is counted among Japan’s five great scenic gorges. Highlights of Shosenkyo • Kakuen Peak Kakuen Peak, the highest peak among the Shosenkyo ranges, stands as the symbol of Shosenkyo. The name comes from the monk Kakuen, who once practiced ascetic training on the roughly tatami-sized summit. • Senga Falls Senga Falls lies at the base of Kakuen Peak at the far end of the Arakawa that flows through Shosenkyo. With a dramatic 30-meter drop and vehicle access, it’s a popular spot. • Shosenkyo Promenade This approximately 4.5-kilometer promenade lets visitors enjoy the gorge’s seasonal beauty and was ranked first in the gorge category of the National Top 100 Tourist Spots. • Stone Gate Stone Gate is a gigantic natural granite arch formed by the power of nature. Located on the promenade, it cannot be reached by car. • Nagatoro Bridge This historic bridge, built in 1925 at the entrance to Shosenkyo, is designated a modern civil engineering heritage as the oldest surviving concrete arch road bridge. • Tenkorin At Tenkorin along the promenade, stomping your feet produces a mysterious sound like a drumbeat. This is said to be the echo from underground cavities carved by the stream. • Numerous strange rocks and stones Along the promenade you can find many named rock formations, including Fur seal rock, Daibutsu Rock, Kansan Jade Rock, Floating Rock, Cannon Rock, Tofu Rock, Monkey Rock, Camel Rock, Mt. Fuji Rock, Bear Rock, Cat Rock, and Matsutake Rock. Be sure to look for them on foot. • Arakawa Dam The majestic dam spreading across the valley of Oku-Shosenkyo is a multipurpose structure aimed at flood control and other uses for the Arakawa riverside region. • Shosenkyo Ropeway The ropeway’s gondola takes about five minutes one way to the summit, offering sweeping views of the gorge below. From the ropeway summit you can enjoy panoramic views that include Mount Fuji. Shosenkyo’s crystals Shosenkyo is also famous as a sacred place for crystals. On Mt. Kinpu in the Shosenkyo area, several crystal mines once operated actively in the Meiji era. Skilled polishing and processing of crystals attracted minerals from around the world, and today shops displaying and selling precious gemstones and mineral specimens line the area. Shosenkyo cuisine Local specialties using the clear streams of Shosenkyo—such as somen noodles, soba, and Koshu houtou—are popular. Many restaurants serve regional gourmet dishes and local cuisine featuring abundant Yamanashi ingredients. Enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery shaped by nature at Shosenkyo, one of Yamanashi Prefecture’s most popular tourist destinations! As a treasure trove of power spots, it might lift your luck as well. Cool Japan Video will continue to release footage of Shosenkyo’s charms and its beautiful seasonal scenery. Thank you for your attention!