Oirase Gorge

A caldera lake straddling Aomori and Akita prefectures, centerpiece of a national park. It boasts Japan's deepest clarity and 44 km of shoreline dotted with unusual rock formations. Home to sacred shrines like Towada Shrine and mountain worship traditions, it harmonizes seasonal natural beauty with cultural heritage.

A 14km mountain stream in Towada, Aomori. The natural beauty created by moss-covered rocks, clear streams, and waterfalls of all sizes is renowned as one of Japan's finest gorge landscapes, attracting visitors nationwide during fresh green and autumn foliage seasons.

A roughly 14km stream flowing from Lake Towada in Towada, Aomori Prefecture. The valley beauty of mossy rocks, clear water, and 14 waterfalls is most stunning during fresh green and autumn foliage seasons. Well-maintained walking trails allow trekking and cycling. New tourism experiences are emerging, including Hoshino Resort's moss-themed rooms.

A gorge in Nishi-Usuki, Miyazaki. Features 7 kilometers of striking canyon landscape with distinctive columnar jointing V-shaped valley. Boat tours are popular. Known as the birthplace of mythology, the setting of the Ama-no-Iwato legend. Approximately 500,000 visitors annually, offering experience of Japan's mythological and natural fusion.

A deep gorge in Miyo, Tokushima Prefecture, characterized by the turbulent Iya River and steep cliffs. The 'Iya Kazura Bridge,' a primitive vine-constructed suspension bridge, attracts approximately 800,000 visitors annually. The gorge's natural beauty and primordial environment serve as tourism resources, representing Japan's nature-based tourism.

A national park in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. Centered on Nikko Toshogu, it blends natural scenery with historic structures. Famous for autumn foliage and spring growth, it is also popular for trekking. Attracting over 7 million visitors annually, it represents Tochigi Prefecture tourism.

A major Tochigi tourism area offering not only World Heritage shrines and temples but also abundant natural attractions such as Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and Senjogahara marshland. Autumn foliage drives along the Irohazaka switchbacks are especially popular.