VOL.197 OCTOBER 2024
JAPAN’S HEALING FORESTS (PART 2)
Autumn Forests with Colorful Leaves
Enjoy Breathtaking Scenery at Tsukechi Gorge with Colorful Autumn Leaves and Clear Blue River
Photo: Nakatsugawa City
Gifu Prefecture is located almost at the center of Honshu, the main island of Japan. At the southeastern tip of Gifu Prefecture lies Nakatsugawa City, home to Tsukechi Gorge. The gorge spreads across the basin of the clear waters of Tsukechi River, also known as Aokawa (‘blue-green river’). Particularly in autumn, visitors can enjoy the combined beauty of the vibrant autumn leaves and the flowing river. We spoke with a staff member from the Nakatsugawa City’s Commerce, Industry and Tourism Department Tourism Division about the charm of the autumn leaves at Tsukechi Gorge.
“Tsukechi Gorge spreads along the flow of the Tsukechi River, a branch of the Kiso River. The Tsukechi River is known for its clear waters, which appear blue and are often described as showing an emerald green color. During the autumn season, a unique natural landscape emerges, showcasing the contrast between the river’s emerald green and the vibrant reds and yellows of the trees.”
The best time to see the colorful autumn leaves at Tsukechi Gorge is mid-November.
Photo: Nakatsugawa City
Recommended spots for the colorful autumn leaves at Tsukechi Gorge include the bridges over the source of the Tsukechi River, notably Seme Bridge and Hontani Bridge, as well as Fudo Park.
Crossing Seme Bridge over the source of the Tsukechi River during the autumn season offers breathtaking views of the magnificent autumn leaves in the depths of Tsukechi Gorge. Trees such as Japanese maple (momiji*), Mongolian oak, and beech typically start to change color around late October, attracting many tourists eager to enjoy the autumn scenery. Meanwhile, Hontani Bridge, which also spans the Tsukechi River, is situated in a tranquil part of the gorge where the delicate and elegant colors of the autumn leaves are particularly stunning.
Fudo Park is an excellent spot for autumn leaves at Tsukechi Gorge, with peak viewing occurring a little later, from early to mid-November. “While it is called a park, it is not an urban park; it offers a mountainous atmosphere within a secluded valley. There is a well-maintained walking path, and the path changes in height, making the experience of exploring the autumn leaves alongside the waterfalls truly exceptional. The walking path is approximately 860 meters long and can be completed in about 40 minutes on foot. This course takes you to three waterfalls, including Kannon Waterfall and Fudo Waterfall. Descending the stairs along the path to view the waterfalls up close while enjoying the surrounding forest is a wonderful experience.”
Tsukechi Gorge is a place where you can fully enjoy a diverse array of autumn leaves. Why not include Tsukechi Gorge in your travel plans and experience the true essence of Japan’s autumn beauty?
Photo: Tsukechicho Tourism Association
* This term refers to a general classification of deciduous trees belonging to the genus Acer. Internationally, these trees are known as ‘maple,’ while in English, momiji specifically refers to ‘Japanese maple.’ The representative species of the Acer genus in Japan is the Iroha momiji (Acer palmatum).
By TANAKA Nozomi
Photo: Nakatsugawa City; PIXTA
