Takachiho Gorge

The iconic cliffs and muddy water after a torrential rainstorm emikariley (Atlas Obscura User)

According to Japanese legend as old as the geology, Takachiho gorge located in Japan’s Miyazaki Prefecture in Kyushu is the place where the deity of Heaven Ninigi-no-mikoto descended to earth.

The steep colonnade and entablature sections of the gorge formed when Mount Aso, a nearby active volcano, erupted lava into the Gokase River. The striking cliffs formed as a result of the rapid cooling of the lava from the eruption. Visitors can now rent boats and paddle on the usually emerald water to see the stunning formations up close. After taking a boat ride or hiking along the gorge, visitors can also enjoy a “nagashi somen” lunch at the entrance of the gorge where patrons must catch rice noodles flowing down a long bamboo slide with their chopsticks.

Even more interestingly, at Takachiho shrine, townspeople and visitors gather to watch the sacred night dance “yokagura” performed every night. The dance is comprised of three acts following tradition reenacting the myths in brilliant costumes depicting the “kami” or Shinto gods.

Know Before You Go

The quiet town of Takachiho is accessible only by car or bus. The Kanko bus runs from Kumamoto city and Aso twice a day. There are traditional Japanese family-run hotels or “minshuku” available near the gorge.