The best time to visit Okutsu Valley for autumn foliage is from late October to mid-November. Since Okutsu Valley is located in northern Okayama Prefecture, leaves turn red a little earlier than in Okayama City, with early November typically being the peak period. During this season, the valley hosts the annual Okutsu Valley Maple Festival with illuminated evening viewings, and guided "Autumn Leaves Walk" tours with local guides are particularly popular.
Admission to Okutsu Valley is free year-round. However, during the autumn foliage season, a shuttle bus operates from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM at 30-minute intervals, costing 400 yen for adults and 200 yen for children for unlimited daily rides. Parking is available but limited, with space for approximately 10 vehicles.
Okutsu Valley is located in Kagamino Town and is most easily accessed by car, approximately 35 minutes from Mimasaka-Sendai Station. During the peak autumn foliage season, the main road in Okutsu becomes one-way to provide more walking space for pedestrians. For current transportation conditions and access information, visitors can contact the Kagamino Town Office of Industry and Tourism at +81-868-52-0711.
The valley's most significant geological feature is the Usubuchi Oketsu Group, considered the best collection of potholes in eastern Japan. The gorge is organized around eight scenic spots including Ishiwari-zakura (a cherry tree growing through split stone), Sasaketaki waterfall, Kotobuchi pool, and various rock formations. Well-maintained walking trails run along both sides of the river, with sections featuring iron scaffolding attached to rock walls for close observation of the formations.
Yes, Otsuri Onsen is located just minutes from the valley and offers day-use bathing facilities. The hot spring area has been valued since the Edo period for its beautifying mineral waters, earning it the nickname "Bijin no Yu" (Onsen of Beauty). The onsen is famous for its "Ashibumi Sentaku" (Washing Dance), performed by women in kimonos on Sundays and public holidays from late March to early December, which visitors can enjoy at no charge.
