“Oboke Koboke” is an about 8km-long canyon, created over 200 million years by the rapids of the Yoshino River that passes through the Shikoku Mountains, and the area has beautiful sculpturesque landscapes. It has been designated as a National Natural Monument as a precious location that showcases the origins of the Japanese archipelago and its beautiful landscape, including beautiful rock formations and V-shaped valleys.
Since long ago, it’s been said that the area is “dangerous to walk with both long or short strides.”
There are many unique experiences to enjoy here, including the “Oboke Canyon Sightseeing Boat” that takes you through the canyon’s beauty up close with a veteran boatman guide, and rafting, where you can enjoy a thrilling trip through the spectacular views while being splashed by the water in a rubber raft.
Furthermore, there is lots of “yokai” folklore in the area, and it has been certified as a place of “mysterious heritage” by the World Yokai Association. At the Oboke Michi-no-Eki there is a “Yokai Mansion,” which has displays on various yokai known from this area, and there are also various events held including a Yokai festival. Nearby are the Iya Valley Onsen Village and “Iya Kazura Bridge,” a thrilling bridge designated as one of Japan’s three mysterious bridges.
Highlights
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A canyon with beautiful, sculpturesque landscape.
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We recommend taking the Oboke Canyon Sightseeing Boat,” from which you can see the beauty of Oboke Canyon’s valleys up close.
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Oboke Koboke, known as Japan’s #1 rapids, is one of the world’s most famous rafting locations.
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At the Oboke Michi-no-Eki there is a “Yokai Mansion” that has displays on the various yokai known from this area.
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We also recommend visiting both the Oboke Iya Valley Onsen Village and “Iya Kazura Bridge,” one of Japan’s three mysterious bridges.
