Kochi Nature & Oboke Gorge Cruise

OVERVIEW

Behold the natural beauty of the Iya Valley, culminating with a leisurely cruise through the Oboke Gorge. On the approach to the secluded inland valley, you will notice how the landscape gradually becomes lusher and more mountainous. Because the gorges are so precipitous, people traditionally crossed them on bridges that they constructed from natural vines. Only a few of these handmade bridges still remain, one of which you will walk across – an exhilarating experience as you will see the river below through the floor’s wooden slats. The nearby Biwa Waterfall, which plummets 150 feet down moss-covered rocks, is equally impressive as is the legend of the defeated Heike clan warriors that played lutes there while mourning their losses. Despite the cascade’s beauty, the highlight may well be cruising through the Oboke Gorge near the entrance to the valley. The boat will carry you down the emerald-green Yoshino River past its rocky steep-walled cliffs.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy the gorgeous scenery on a leisurely drive to and from the Iya Valley.
• Walk across a river on a suspension bridge made from vines that grow in the valley.
• Be awed by the natural beauty of the Biwa Waterfall as it cascades down a rocky cliff.
• Cruise the Yoshino River that cuts through the narrow steep-walled Oboke Gorge.
• Relax while dining on traditional Japanese cuisine at a restaurant in the Iya Valley.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.