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Sanzu River Gorge

The gorge named after the "Sanzu River," which separates this world from the next, offers breathtaking autumn foliage views.

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Located in Aomori Prefecture, the Kawarage Jigoku (Riverbank Hell) is considered one of Japan's three major sacred sites alongside Osorezan in Aomori and Tateyama in Toyama. Since ancient times, it has been visited by many ascetic monks and worshippers. At its entrance lies the scenic spot, the "Sanzu River Gorge".

Spanning the gorge is the Sanzu River Bridge, standing approximately 40 meters high. From the observation space set up in the middle of the bridge, one can look down upon the gorge, presenting a view so powerful it might make your legs wobble and eyes dazzle. The scene is truly fitting for the name "Sanzu River," which separates this world from the next. At the base of the bridge stand four stone statues—Enma Daioh, Taizan Daioh, Enmei Jizo, and Gassho Jizo—seeming to guard this boundary between the two worlds. With the changing seasons, one can enjoy varying scenic beauty, especially during autumn when it becomes a popular spot for its magnificent foliage. During the peak season, numerous tourists and photographers visit the place.

Near the Sanzu River Bridge, there's a parking area equipped with restrooms, convenient for those who wish to take their time and savor the view.

Highlights

  • Majestic gorge located at the entrance of "Kawarage Jigoku".
  • From the 40m-high bridge, one can enjoy the stunning view of autumn foliage, making it a popular photography spot.
  • Four stone statues, including Enma Daioh, stand at the base of the bridge.
  • Nearby amenities include parking, toilets, and vending machines.
  • Avoid leaning out from the bridge; dropped items cannot be retrieved.

Photos

  • The gorge vividly colored by autumn leaves.

    The gorge vividly colored by autumn leaves.

  • The lush greenery in spring is also a powerful sight to behold.

    The lush greenery in spring is also a powerful sight to behold.

  • The stone statues standing at the base of the bridge are a must-see.

    The stone statues standing at the base of the bridge are a must-see.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)

A

Sorry, we don’t.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

No free Wi-Fi available.

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Not available.

Q

Are there restrooms available?

A

Yes, there are.

Q

When is the best time to view the autumn leaves?

A

Typically, from mid-October to late October.

Reviews

1
  • Andy Huang

    在紅葉時期的美麗景色,其美豔是會讓人百看不厭.

Details

Name in Japanese
三途川渓谷
Postal Code
019-0202
Address
Kuwagasaki, Yuzawa City, Akita
Telephone
0183-55-8180 (Yuzawa City Tourism & Geopark Promotion Division, Tourism Promotion Team)
Closed
Free to walk
Business Hours
Walk anytime
Admission
Free
Access
About 15 minutes by car from Yuzawa-Yokote road Sukawa IC
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)