Taishaku Gorge
Also written: 帝釈峡 · 帝释峡
A valley selected as one of Japan's 100 Landscapes; dramatic rocks and autumn foliage reflecting on the water create an awe-inspiring scene.
Another illustration of this place, under Townscape & Scenery →
An Illustrated Japan / Hiroshima / Famous Views
About this place
Taishakukyo is an 18 km-long gorge straddling Shobara City and Jinsekikogen Town in northeastern Hiroshima, one of Japan's representative valleys and a National Scenic Beauty since 1923. It is the centerpiece of Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park and listed among Japan's 100 Landscapes. The gorge was carved by the Taishaku River through a limestone plateau, forming a karst landscape 200 to 300 m deep. Highlights include Onbashi, a natural limestone bridge 90 m long, 18 m wide, 40 m high, designated Natural Monument and one of Japan's 100 Famous Bridges, and Me-bashi. Other features are Hakundo Cave (200 m show cave, 11°C interior), On-no-Karamon natural arch 8 m high, Dangyo Gorge where fish cannot ascend due to rapids, and fossil-bearing green tuff from Carboniferous submarine volcanoes. In the center lies Lake Shinryu, reservoir of Taishaku Dam completed 1924 as one of Japan's first concrete dams, once the tallest in Japan, 11,000 kW hydropower, with sightseeing boat. The promenade of 6 km includes a detour 2.5 km with 150 m elevation due to rockfall closure since 1996. Four-season attraction: fresh green in May, autumn foliage in late October. Admission free, parking 500 yen, toilet at rest houses. Access: 20 min from Tojo IC on Chugoku Expressway. The valley also shows traces of Jomon to Kamakura periods with pottery remains displayed at local museum and seasonal events like lake opening in April with kusudama splitting ceremony. Trail difficulty moderate, limestone walls show coral fossils, clear water reflects maples. The area is well maintained with parking and toilets. Local cuisine and seasonal events enrich visit. Photography recommended early morning or sunset. Check tide tables and weather forecasts for best experience. Family friendly and accessible for most visitors with moderate walking. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers.
