Kanmangafuchi Abyss

PROS ➕ Nice walking path ➕ Statues ➕ Picturesque view CONS ➖ None Date visited: 05/05/2024 This place was featured on a tourist flyer I received not long after arriving in Nikko. Naturally, I set aside some time to visit it. I walked for about half an hour from the temple area. Following the road through a typical Japanese neighborhood, I reached a park and continued along a trail from there. I recommend using the bathroom at the park, as there were none along the trail. There was also a snack shop where they sold drinks. Small child-like statues marked the beginning of the trail. The path was paved and cut through a forested area. After a short walk, I saw a small cottage or shrine of some sort, which turned out to be the entrance to Kanmangafuchi Abyss. The statues appeared again, but in larger numbers — I believe they are called Jizō. I followed an arched path lined with statues on one side, while the other side faced a deep creek — the Abyss. The area was heavily shaded; we were deep in the woods, surrounded by tall trees and stone walls. All the Jizō were ancient, covered in moss and lichen, but free of other large vegetation. Some were damaged beyond recognition — just piles of rocks and pebbles. The only thing that marked their identity was the red fabric people had placed on them out of respect. The creek was partially visible from the path. It was filled with jagged boulders and a strong river current. There was a small shelter that offered a place to sit and reflect. I could imagine how meditative it would be to rest there and listen to the natural sounds rising from the Abyss. Beyond the statues, the trail turned to gravel and eventually led to a bridge. Along the way, I found a small, rundown shrine that seemed to be dedicated to fox spirits. I would have offered something, but unfortunately, I didn’t have anything with me at the time.

A really nice area out of the way of crowds and noise. A close walk from the Imperial Villa, so definitely one to add onto your list of things to see while in Nikko. Unfortunately the day we visited it was raining heavily so we didn’t get to see much of the trail, but from the little we did see it was really cool. Great lookout point for the river below

I am not sure why google is saying this a ticket is required to enter this place. I've had fun on my little nature walk in this place. Took a lot of pictures of course. But Pictures really will not justify this place. You need to go here yourself. It is worth the trip. The river, the falls, the scenery. This is a wonderland to me.

Wow…this entire area and trail is stunningly beautiful and worth every step I took exploring it all. It was so peaceful and serene and the combination of greenery and nearby water made for a heavenly experience. It’s the perfect place to relax and stroll with your thoughts and reflect on life. There are plenty of places to sit and rest along the journey and take it all in. It was a memorable day and I highly recommend exploring it yourself!

A peaceful place just outside Nikko and 100% worth the walk. Lots of statues with colorful red hats and a calming river running through the gorge. The place feels a lot cooler in the summer and is a perfect place to just sit and unwind for a moment.