Oirase Gorge

Oirase Gorge is a valley approximately 14 km long located in Towada City, Aomori Prefecture. It stretches from Nenokuchi on Lake Towada to Yakeyama, and is one of the leading natural scenic spots in the Tohoku region. Owing to its beauty, it has been designated a “Special Place of Scenic Beauty” and a “Natural Monument” by the Japanese government, and it has also earned two stars (★★) in the French travel guide Michelin Green Guide Japan.

The Oirase River, which flows out of Lake Towada, runs through deep natural forest, weaving together numerous waterfalls, clear streams, and rocks. Its ever-changing scenery throughout the seasons continues to captivate visitors.

Highlights and Features

A Tunnel of Natural Beauty and Walking Paths
A road and walking path are maintained along the gorge, making trekking enjoyable even for beginners. The tree canopy overhead layers together like a green tunnel, creating the feeling of walking through a forest passage. Each season offers a spectacular view: fresh greenery in spring, deep green in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter.

The most recommended times to visit are from mid-May to mid-June, when the fresh green leaves are at their best, and from mid- to late October, during the autumn foliage season. In the early morning, you may also encounter a magical scene of morning mist and sunlight filtering through the trees.

Recommended Walking Route (Full Course: about 4 hours)
For those who want to enjoy photography and nature observation, the route from Yakeyama downstream to Nenokuchi upstream is popular. Since the light comes from behind you, it is easy to take beautiful photos that make the most of natural light. If you have the stamina, it is recommended to explore the following course leisurely on foot.

Sample Walking Course: Nenokuchi → Yakeyama
Nenokuchi
↓ (about 20 min)
Choshi Otaki Falls
↓ (about 50 min)
Kumoi no Nagare
↓ (about 30 min)
Kumoi no Taki Falls
↓ (about 30 min)
Makadoiwa Rock
↓ (about 15 min)
Ishigedo
↓ (about 70 min)
Yakeyama

Along the way, waterfalls, rocky cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters continue to unfold, offering new discoveries every time you visit.

Main Attractions

Choshi Otaki Falls
This is the only major waterfall on the Oirase River main stream, with a height of about 7 meters and a width of about 20 meters. With its powerful torrent and spray, it is also called the “Fish Stop Waterfall,” said to have prevented fish from swimming up into Lake Towada.

Kumoi no Taki Falls
A waterfall about 20 meters high that drops in three tiers, it is admired for its abundant water and majestic appearance. Fed by the Kumoi River tributary, it was formed through long years of erosion.

Ashura no Nagare
One of the iconic scenic spots of Oirase Gorge. The contrast between the fierce current and the surrounding trees is beautiful, making it popular with photographers and painters. As part of tourism development, the placement of rocks has been carefully arranged, creating a picturesque landscape.

Ishigedo Rapids and Legend
This is a beautiful area where gentle currents and rocks of various sizes create a serene space. Nearby is “Ishigedo,” meaning “stone hut,” and a legend remains about a thief named “Oni-gami no O-Matsu.”

Samidare no Nagare
An excellent photography spot in mid-May, where purple azalea flowers bloom among the rocks in the stream. The harmony of the quiet current and the blossoms is especially impressive.

Shimeikei
This area was once known as a famous spot where clear streams shone beautifully, but due to changes in topography and water volume, its former appearance has been lost. Even so, its winter scenery is breathtaking, and it remains a popular photography location.

Diverse Flora, Fauna, and Ecosystem

Birds
In Oirase Gorge, you can observe birds typical of streamside habitats, such as the black-backed wagtail, brown dipper, Japanese wren, and ruddy kingfisher. Listening to birdsong as you walk is part of the charm.

Animals
If you are lucky, you may spot a Japanese serow. They are especially easy to see through gaps between the trees in late autumn and winter, when the leaves have fallen.

Amphibians
Around late May, egg masses of the Tohoku salamander may be seen in puddles. Other salamanders, such as the Hakone salamander and black salamander, also inhabit the area.

Plants and Natural Environment
Thanks to the humid climate and stable water supply, the riparian forests at the bottom of the valley are home to many horse chestnut, katsura, and walnut trees. Honey made from the blossoms of these trees is known as a local specialty of Towada.

In spring, Anemone keiskeana and Anemone flaccida color the forest floor, and later, ferns emerge as the seasons change.

Using Rental Bicycles
In Oirase Gorge, it is also possible to explore efficiently while feeling the breeze by using rental bicycles, available for people 143 cm or taller. This is a great option for those who do not have enough time to walk the entire route or who want to cover a wider area.

Notes and Tips
If you want to avoid crowds, an early morning visit is ideal.

The best seasons are the fresh green period and the autumn foliage season, but traffic congestion is common during peak times, so using public transportation or departing early in the morning is recommended.

Oirase Gorge is a precious place where anyone can easily experience nature at its most magnificent. While sightseeing by car is possible, we encourage you to walk along the trails and enjoy the time surrounded by the sound of the stream, the scent of the trees, and the gentle touch of the breeze.