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Oirase Gorge Travel Information Off The Track Japan

Leo Migdal
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oirase gorge travel information off the track japan

Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp The Oirase Stream flows from Lake Towada on the border of Aomori and Akita prefectures through the equally scenic Oirase Gorge. Hiking or biking along it, you'll see why the stream and the gorge have inspired painters and poets for centuries. The area is full of lush woods, waterfalls and odd outcroppings of rocks. Examples of the latter two have even acquired names over the years. Oirase Gorge is most easily reached by JR bus from either Aomori or Hachinohe stations.

Please note service is suspended in winter. From either station, you'll take the bus bound for Towada-ko. There are numerous bus stops, such as Yakeyama, from which the trailhead can be reached. Choose where to disembark based on what you want to see, and how long you want to hike. Located in Towada City, Oirase Gorge is widely recognized as a must-visit destination in Aomori Prefecture. Nestled within lush natural forests, this enchanting gorge offers convenient access, with a dedicated sightseeing route that can be explored by car, making it perfect for casual visitors.

In this guide, we will share about the wonders of Oirase Gorge and provide valuable tips for first-time visitors, ensuring an unforgettable experience. (Main image provided by General Incorporated Association Lake Towada National Park Association) Oirase Gorge is a designated natural monument and natural special scenic spot, and is one of the most well-known scenic spots in Japan. With a 14-kilometer long path surrounded by nature and untouched by mankind, from the huge waterfalls to the beautiful streams flowing, there are numerous breath-taking spots there. To reach Oirase Gorge, there are two main transportation options: ・Option 1: Renting a car from Aomori Airport Rent a car from Aomori Station, which will take around an hour and 15 minutes to... ・Option 2: Taking public transportation If you prefer to travel by bus, from Aomori Station, take a JR Bus that directly heads to Oirase Gorge.

Make sure to get off at the designated stop called "Oirase Field Museum (Oirase Keiryū-kan)." Notably, the JR Bus departs from both Shin-Aomori Station and Hachinohe Station, both of which connect to the Shinkansen... This convenient public transportation option ensures that Oirase Gorge, despite being a natural treasure spot, is easily accessible to foreign visitors without much difficulty. Get 10% off when you book via the special site. (Coupon code: iUzM2RfVlJ) The JR Bus Tohoku offers convenient bus transportation between JR Bus Towadako Station, Hachinohe Station, and Aomori Station. Please note that both the JR EAST PASS and The JAPAN RAIL PASS are valid for the local line of JR Bus Tohoku.

It's important to be aware that the buses can accommodate around 50 passengers and may become crowded during peak seasons. As the buses do not have onboard toilets, it is advisable to plan accordingly and make necessary restroom arrangements before boarding. Sample itinerary: ・Depart Aomori Station at 8:10 AM; arrive at the Oirase Field Museum stop at 10:07 AM. ・Walk or cycle from Oirase Field Museum stop to the Nenokuchi bus stop (around 3 hours) ・Take the 3:15 PM bus at the Nenokuchi stop back to Aomori Station (arriving at 4:38 PM) The Oirase Gorge is one of the most beautiful river valleys in Japan, with vibrant and fast flowing water. The gorge extends over 14 km from the contrastively calm Lake Towada.

The Oirase Gorge shows its beauty in different ways throughout the four seasons. However, the gorge is mostly known for its spectacular autumn foliage in the fall season.The Oirase Gorge has an enchanting atmosphere with many waterfalls and thick woods. Starting in October, the leaves of the trees begin to change to vibrant red and yellow, adding to the already vivid green of the moss on the rocks, adding colors to a magnificent sight. The autumn colors peak every year around the end of October to the beginning of November. Visitors can hike around the gorge on the hiking trail. The gorge is a National Special Place of Scenic Beauty and National Natural Monument.

Rental Bicycles are available for visitors who prefer cycling to walking. The Oirase Stream Museum is located conveniently at the mouth of the Oirase Gorge for visitors to enjoy a break with a light meal or shop for souvenirs. Nestled in the heart of Aomori Prefecture, Oirase Gorge stands as one of Japan's most captivating natural wonders. This picturesque river valley stretches for 14 kilometers, offering visitors a mesmerizing journey through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams. Known for its stunning beauty in all seasons, Oirase Gorge attracts nature enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers seeking a serene escape into Japan's wilderness. As you explore this enchanting landscape, you'll discover why Oirase Gorge has inspired artists and poets for centuries, and why it continues to be a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the raw...

Oirase Gorge is located in the northeastern part of Honshu, Japan's main island, within the Towada-Hachimantai National Park. The gorge runs between Yakeyama at the foot of Mount Hakkoda and Nenokuchi on the shore of Lake Towada. This pristine area is characterized by its gentle gradient, dropping only 200 meters over its 14-kilometer length. The Oirase Stream, which flows from Lake Towada, is the lifeblood of the gorge, carving its way through the landscape and creating a diverse ecosystem. At the heart of the gorge lies the charming Ishigedo rest area, serving as a central point for visitors to pause and take in the surrounding beauty. The gorge is easily accessible by car or bus, with National Highway 103 running parallel to the stream, making it convenient for travelers to explore various points of interest along the way.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, a well-marked hiking trail follows the river, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the gorge's natural splendor. National Highway 103 is the road that follows Oirase Gorge in Aomori Prefecture Oirase Gorge is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and unique natural features. The crystal-clear Oirase River is the star attraction, flowing through a beautiful deciduous forest and creating a symphony of rushing water and rustling leaves. Along the gorge, visitors will encounter numerous waterfalls, each with its own character and charm. Some of the most notable include:

Japan always holds a special place for us and each time we visit, we seek out more immersive and culturally significant experiences. On a recent trip, we came across a true hidden gem in the Tohoku region of Japan that surpassed all expectations in both areas. That gem was the Oirase Gorge in Aomori Prefecture. For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Japan, Oirase Gorge is a must-visit natural wonder. Known for its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams, this breathtaking gorge is not to be missed. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, an overnight stay at Oirase Gorge offers the perfect balance of scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and relaxation.

A visit to Oirase Gorge is not just about hiking its scenic trails—it’s about immersing yourself in the natural and cultural landscape of Japan. And there’s no better place to stay than Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, which offers world-class amenities, traditional onsen baths, and a prime location near the gorge. Oirase Gorge is a scenic river valley stretching approximately 14 kilometers along the Oirase Stream, connecting Lake Towada to the plains of Aomori. The gorge is known for its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and moss-covered rocks, creating a landscape that feels like a scene from a fantasy novel. Information about the scenic Oirase Gorge, popular trails, and waterfalls along the river. Oirase Gorge, located in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, is one of the country’s most scenic river valleys and a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Nestled within [Towada-Hachimantai National Park], this 14-kilometer stretch from Nenokuchi at [Lake Towada] to Yakeyama captivates visitors with its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and the serene Oirase Stream. Known for its year-round beauty, the gorge is particularly enchanting during autumn when vibrant foliage transforms the landscape into a painter’s dream. This article explores the highlights of Oirase Gorge, including its scenic trails, iconic waterfalls, and seasonal charm, providing a guide to fully immerse yourself in its natural splendor. Oirase Gorge is a masterpiece of nature that transforms with the seasons, offering vibrant greenery in spring and summer and a breathtaking display of fiery reds and oranges in autumn. Renowned for its stunning fall foliage, the gorge draws nature lovers and photographers from late October to early November at its peak. The tranquil Oirase Stream flows through this lush landscape, filling the air with the soothing sounds of rushing water and rustling leaves.

Beyond its beauty, the gorge is a haven for biodiversity, home to diverse plant species and wildlife that thrive in this protected sanctuary. Hiking: The scenic trail provides an up-close experience of the gorge, allowing visitors to marvel at its waterfalls, lush flora, and invigorating mountain air. Cycling: Rental bicycles are available for those who prefer a quicker pace, offering a chance to cover more ground while soaking in the breathtaking views. Bus Tours: Ideal for visitors with limited time or mobility, bus tours stop at key attractions along the gorge, providing a comfortable way to enjoy the scenery. Photography: A haven for photographers, Oirase Gorge is especially captivating during autumn when the vibrant foliage is at its peak, offering countless opportunities to capture its seasonal beauty. The main hiking trail through Oirase Gorge spans approximately 14 kilometers and takes around 4 to 5 hours to complete.

This relatively flat and well-maintained path is accessible to hikers of all skill levels, offering countless opportunities to stop and admire the stunning waterfalls, lush greenery, and unique rock formations along the way. The 14-km Oirase Gorge (Oirase Keiryū, 奥入瀬渓流) in Aomori Prefecture is known as one of Japan’s most scenic spots. No matter which season you visit Oirase Gorge, you will definitely be amazed by its beauty. Apart from the artificial walking tracks, the entire valley remains in its original form. The virgin forest, the rocks, big and small, covered by various moss, multiple meandering streams flowing on the riverbank, and not to mention the waterfalls here and there, all will make you want to... And the best thing about Oirase Gorge is that there aren’t too many bugs!

Don’t we all hate being stung by those mosquitos…(´▽｀*). For information about how to get from Hachinohe and Aomori to Oirase Gorge, please refer to our article on How to Get to Oirase Gorge. Tip: Same-day luggage delivery service is available in Oirase Gorge when JR bus services are operating. Refer to HERE for more information and to reserve the service. You can translate the website using your browser’s translation function. If you prefer a guide to introduce you to the charms of Oirase Gorge, how about joining one of the following tours?

Referring to the Oirase Gorge Map, you can enter Oirase Gorge from either Nenokuchi (子ノ口) or Yakeyama (焼山). We recommend starting the journey from the Oirase river’s downstream, called Yakeyama. This ensures you don’t enjoy the main dish before the appetizers. The closer you get to Nenokuchi, the more spectacular the view is! Oirase Stream (�������k��, Oirase Keiryū) is a picturesque mountain stream in Aomori Prefecture and one of Japan's most famous and popular autumn colors destinations. The stream flows along the floor of the Oirase Gorge, winding among trees, which - while a lush green in spring and summer - turn brilliant shades of red, yellow and orange from late...

Over a dozen waterfalls cascade down into the stream all along its length from the walls of the gorge. Oirase Stream is the only outlet draining Lake Towada. It starts at Nenokuchi where there is a bus stop and a boat pier with connections to nearby Yasumiya Town. An easy-to-walk hiking trail leads along the most scenic, upper passage of the stream between Nenokuchi and Ishigedo, with many bridges, waterfalls and bus stops along the way. The trail is about 9 kilometers long and takes about 2.5 hours to walk one way. Unfortunately for hikers, a busy road runs alongside the Oirase Stream, often crisscrossing the stream and hiking trail.

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Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp The Oirase Stream flows from Lake Towada on the border of Aomori and Akita prefectures through the equally scenic Oirase Gorge. Hiking or biking along it, you'll see why the stream and the gorge have inspired painters and poets for centuries. The area is full of lush woods, waterfalls and odd outcroppings of rocks. Exam...

Please Note Service Is Suspended In Winter. From Either Station,

Please note service is suspended in winter. From either station, you'll take the bus bound for Towada-ko. There are numerous bus stops, such as Yakeyama, from which the trailhead can be reached. Choose where to disembark based on what you want to see, and how long you want to hike. Located in Towada City, Oirase Gorge is widely recognized as a must-visit destination in Aomori Prefecture. Nestled w...

In This Guide, We Will Share About The Wonders Of

In this guide, we will share about the wonders of Oirase Gorge and provide valuable tips for first-time visitors, ensuring an unforgettable experience. (Main image provided by General Incorporated Association Lake Towada National Park Association) Oirase Gorge is a designated natural monument and natural special scenic spot, and is one of the most well-known scenic spots in Japan. With a 14-kilome...

Make Sure To Get Off At The Designated Stop Called

Make sure to get off at the designated stop called "Oirase Field Museum (Oirase Keiryū-kan)." Notably, the JR Bus departs from both Shin-Aomori Station and Hachinohe Station, both of which connect to the Shinkansen... This convenient public transportation option ensures that Oirase Gorge, despite being a natural treasure spot, is easily accessible to foreign visitors without much difficulty. Get 1...

It's Important To Be Aware That The Buses Can Accommodate

It's important to be aware that the buses can accommodate around 50 passengers and may become crowded during peak seasons. As the buses do not have onboard toilets, it is advisable to plan accordingly and make necessary restroom arrangements before boarding. Sample itinerary: ・Depart Aomori Station at 8:10 AM; arrive at the Oirase Field Museum stop at 10:07 AM. ・Walk or cycle from Oirase Field Mus...