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Unforgettable views of sky, sea, and the gorge below from way up high! A hiker’s delight!
Kankakei is a gorge in Kagawa Prefecture’s Shodo Island. It is located in the heart of Setonaikai National Park.
The valley of Kankakei was formed over thousands of years as volcanic andesite and agglomerate were thrust upward via shifting of the earth’s mantle and eroded by rain and wind, creating a spectacular scene of sheer cliffs and rock formations.
It has been recognized as one of the Three Great Valleys of Beauty in Japan, one of the 100 Landscapes of Japan, as well as one of the “100 Natural Heritage Sites in Japan of the 21st Century.”
A ropeway runs across the valley, from which visitors can see the beautiful surrounding scenery, like the Seto Inland Sea, greenery of the surrounding mountains, and autumn leaves. The ropeway grants an amazing view that can encompass the sky, sea, and valley in one sweep.
The ropeway connects Kouun Station and the Summit Station, and runs every 12 minutes. (Boarding time 5 minutes)
There is also a hiking trail that leads up to the Summit Station, so it is recommended to take the ropeway up to the summit and then use the trail to descend. Of course, depending on your stamina and fitness you can also take the ropeway or trail both ways.
There are also restaurants, rest stops, shops, observation decks, and other facilities near the Summit Station.
View from the observation deck
View from the observation deck
The ropeway
Observation deck
Observation deck
Matsutake Rock
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Taking the ropeway gives you stunning views of the mountains, sea, and sky from above. It's really beautiful!
This place was actually used as a filming location for the movie Kiki's Delivery Service, which really shows just how beautiful the scenery is.
The best time to visit is during the autumn leaves season. If it's not autumn, it depends on how much time you have, since taking the ropeway and exploring the area takes quite a while.
I took the ropeway up to the observation deck, and the view was super open—you can see the whole Seto Inland Sea clearly. If you visit in the fall during the autumn leaves season, it would be absolutely perfect.
In autumn, the view of the maple leaves on both sides of the ropeway is absolutely stunning!
