Yabakei Gorge in northwestern Oita Prefecture is one of Japan's most acclaimed gorge landscapes, designated a national scenic area, where towering volcanic tuff and basalt cliffs rise above the clear Yamakuni River. In late October and November the steep gorge walls are blanketed in maple, sumac, and beech trees burning with autumn colour, reflected perfectly in the river's placid pools. The Aonodomon tunnel, hand-carved by the monk Zenkai over 30 years in the 18th century, is among the gorge's many historical highlights. The nearby Rakanji Temple, with its 93 stone-carved Buddha figures set into cave niches, offers a unique cultural experience amid the koyo scenery.
- Type
- Venue
- Category
- Autumn Leaves
- Season
- Autumn
- Month
- Late October–Mid November
- Region
- Kyushu
- Prefecture
- Oita
- City
- Nakatsu
Highlights
- ◆National scenic area with 100-metre volcanic tuff cliff faces
- ◆Maple and beech foliage reflected in still Yamakuni River pools
- ◆Aonodomon hand-carved monk's tunnel from the 18th century
- ◆Rakanji Temple's 93 cave-set stone Buddha figures
- ◆Cycling and walking paths along the valley floor