Hisuikyo Gorge

Overview

Hisuikyo Gorge is a valley approximately 12 kilometers long, stretching from Shichiso-cho, Kamo-gun to Shirakawa-cho, Kamo-gun, Gifu Prefecture. The entire Hidagawa River basin is a river park within the Hida Kisogawa Quasi-National Park, offering breathtaking valley scenery and abundant nature. Particularly, the approximately 2-kilometer section of the gorge upstream from the Kamao Bridge (which crosses the Hidagawa River about 600 meters east of JR Takayama Line's Kamao Station) is designated a national natural monument as the "Hisuikyo Pothole Group" (also known as "Rock Garden"). The Hisuikyo Pothole Group is comprised of round holes eroded into the bedrock by the powerful river currents; their number and scale are among the largest in Japan. A variety of large and small potholes are scattered throughout the area, offering a sense of the awe-inspiring power of nature. Furthermore, the area including Hisuikyo Gorge is also selected as one of Japan's 100 Geological Highlights, highlighting its geological significance. The highlight of Hisuikyo is undoubtedly the "Hisuikyo Pothole Group." These potholes were formed over many years by the relentless erosion of the Hidagawa River's strong currents, and their size and number are among the largest in Japan. The variety of large and small potholes scattered throughout the area allows visitors to experience the immense power of nature. Additionally, chert, a sedimentary rock, is distributed throughout Hisuikyo. Chert is a layered stratum composed of radiolarian fossils (a type of plankton), and the area including Hisuikyo is designated as a "Gifu Prefecture Rock." The chert gives the rock face of Hisuikyo a unique color, further enhancing its scenic beauty. Hisuikyo Gorge is a captivating tourist spot where you can appreciate the beauty of natural formations and their geological significance. It offers various ways to enjoy the area, whether it be a stop during a drive or motorcycle tour, a hike, a stroll, or simply taking in the stunning scenery.