Taishaku Gorge

Taishaku Gorge is an 18-kilometer-long limestone canyon carved by the Taishaku River in Hiroshima Prefecture's northern highlands. The gorge formed over 100 million years of geological activity, creating dramatic rock formations, natural bridges, and caves that have drawn visitors since the Edo period. The area takes its name from Taishakuten, a Buddhist guardian deity, reflecting the spiritual significance locals have attributed to this landscape for centuries.

The gorge's most famous natural feature is Onbashi Bridge, a 90-meter-long natural limestone arch spanning 40 meters above the river. Formed through millennia of erosion, this rock bridge is designated as a National Natural Monument and remains one of Japan's three largest natural bridges. Archaeological excavations in nearby caves have uncovered evidence of human habitation dating back approximately 10,000 years, with artifacts now displayed in local museums demonstrating the gorge's long relationship with human settlement.

Visitors typically explore the gorge through two main sections. The upper gorge, centered around Shinryuko Lake, offers a 40-minute pleasure boat ride that glides past towering cliffs and forested slopes. The lower gorge features walking trails that wind through forests and alongside the river, providing access to observation points overlooking Onbashi Bridge and other rock formations. The approximately 3-kilometer hiking course takes roughly 90 minutes to complete and passes through tunnels and over suspension bridges built to enhance accessibility.

The gorge is located in Shobara City and Jinsekikogen Town, accessible by car in approximately 90 minutes from Hiroshima city or 2 hours from Okayama. The nearest train station is JR Bitchu-Shobara Station on the Geibi Line, from which buses run to the gorge entrance but service is infrequent. Driving remains the most practical option for most visitors. Admission to walking trails is free, while the Shinryuko Lake boat tour costs ¥1,200 for adults and ¥600 for children.