The prefecture of Iwate (岩手県) is located in the northern part of the Tohoku Region (東北地方) and is home to many splendid attractions. One of them is Geibi Gorge (猊鼻渓), a stunning valley that has captured the hearts of many visitors with its sheer seasonal beauty.
Iwate: Home to scenic natural beauty
Iwate Prefecture is home to famous attractions such as the historical town of Hiraizumi, which is home to the iconic Chusonji Temple and Motsuji Temple, but it is also home to natural attractions, with Geibi Gorge being an outstanding example. Best of all, these attractions are relatively close to each other, so visitors can explore them in just one day.
To get to Geibi Gorge from Tokyo, visitors can take the Tohoku Shinkansen (東北新幹線) to Ichinoseki Station (JR一ノ関駅) and switch to the Ofunato Line (大船渡線) to Geibikei Station (猊鼻渓駅). From the station, it is only a 5-minute walk to reach the valley.
A pleasure boat ride through Geibi Gorge
Renowned for its beauty throughout the four seasons, Geibi Gorge is best enjoyed with a pleasure boat ride along the Satetsu River (砂鉄川) that runs through it. The boat departs every hour and throughout the year, enabling visitors to enjoy the different seasons, from vibrant greenery of summer to the eye-catching foliage of autumn, and snow-white landscape in winter.
Each boat is navigated by a boatman, and during the ride, they will regale you with some interesting facts about Geibi Gorge, from its remarkable limestone caves to the various animals swimming along the river, such as koi fish and ducks. They will also entertain guests with a traditional folk song named Geibikei Oiwake (猊鼻渓追分 Boatman’s Folksong).
Test your luck at the Lion’s Nose
Visitors on the pleasure boat ride are also in for a surprise: towards the end of the river, they can get off the boat and make their way on foot to the “Lion’s Nose”, a hole on the opposite side of the riverbank. Visitors can get some undama (運玉 lucky stones) on-site and try throwing them into the “Lion’s Nose” for good luck. Take note, however, that it isn’t an easy task: the hole is far away from the shore, and you need great skills to successfully throw a stone into it.
See you at Geibi Gorge!
The Geibi Gorge is one of the most popular attractions in Iwate Prefecture, and visitors to the gorge will be mesmerised by its sheer seasonal beauty. With its fairly easy access by train, it is a great addition to all visitors’ itineraries. Why not make your way to Geibi Gorge for your next trip to Iwate Prefecture?
Hop on a pleasure boat ride at Geibi Gorge!
Want to experience a leisurely boat ride through Geibi Gorge? Then get your hands on the tickets, which are available on JAPAN RAIL CLUB! Just click here and follow the steps to confirm your purchase. See you at Geibi Gorge!
Header image credit: ©Linktivity
