Akita City, Akita Prefecture, Japan Souya Gorge (Iwami Gorge), a beautiful valley with uplifting scenery

Beautifully dyed scenic spot on the upper reaches of the Iwami River in Akita Prefecture 

The huge rock cliffs that stretch for 300 meters upstream of the Iwami River are spectacular when the leaves are fresh green or changing colors. The Omata River and Komata River valleys are attractive to nature lovers.

The "precipice" in "Souya" refers to the narrow, steep land, and as the name implies, there is a series of precipitous cliffs stretching more than 300 meters. The mountains of the Dewa Mountains can be seen in the distance, and the autumn leaves are beautiful. The river is also known for its clear, clear water, where ayu fish and trout live, as there are almost no houses or dams upstream. It was selected as one of Akita's 30 most scenic spots in the 1955-1964 period.

Visitors can enjoy the beauty of each season: mountain cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, and autumn leaves in fall. Upstream is "Fushin-no-taki Falls," a scenic spot representative of the backcountry.

Perhaps because of the steep slopes, there are no plantations, and the trees are mainly broad-leaved, making it a popular autumn color viewing spot.

From spring to fall, the area is crowded with people enjoying hiking and mountain stream fishing. It is a popular tourist spot, especially in the fall, when the autumn leaves are beautiful and the area is conveniently located only 30 to 40 minutes by car from central Akita City.

Best time to view the autumn leaves at Souyakyo

Colors begin to change in late September, and the best time to view them is from early October to late October.

The maple, oak, and beech trees can be seen in the fall colors.

In 1811, Masumi Sugae visited here and left a drawing of Souya Gorge in his diary, "Kettanou Yuyumi". To reach Souya Gorge, follow Prefectural Route 28 in the direction of Uyo, and you will see a free parking lot.

There is a fairly large parking lot at the entrance to Souya Gorge. Park your car and walk 50 meters in the direction of the information board.

It is said that Souya Gorge was formed around 708 when the Uyashinai swamp broke up. Along the river, steep rocky mountains continue for about 300 meters like a folding screen.

The rugged rock surface of the screen is wild.

Tonobuchi

The name "Tonobuchi" is said to have come from the fact that a long time ago, when a lord was touring along the river, he was so taken by the scenery that he accidentally fell off his horse.

The rocks on both sides overlap, and azaleas and maple trees thrive between the rocks, which are reflected in the clear river surface.

As one would expect from a place where the Tono-sama fell from his horse.

NAME:

Souya Gorge (Iwami Gorge)

Address :

Niikawa, Kawabe Iwami, Akita City, Akita Prefecture

Access :

Approximately 45 minutes from Akita Station by car, 35 minutes from Wada Station by car