Dakigaeri Valley

Dakigaeri Valley stretches for 10 km along the middle course of the Tamagawa River, which flows between Lake Tazawa and Kakunodate. It is said to be named after an old and narrow treacherous mountain path, which was so narrow that when two people met, they had to embrace each other to pass.

It's known as a scenic spot for both fresh greenery and autumn foliage, attracting many tourists during the season. With the primitive forests on both banks, waterfalls cascading down the cliffs, and the mystically blue river stream, it's often referred to as the "Yabakei of the Tohoku region." There's a well-maintained walking path up to the "Iimura Shonen Monument," and along the way, visitors can enjoy dynamic rapids, peculiar rocks, and waterfalls of various sizes. It offers an approximately 40-minute hike while admiring the refreshing beauty of the valley.

Among all the attractions, the "Mikaeri no Taki (Look-back Waterfall)" is a must-see. Its beauty is said to be so captivating that you'll want to glance back at it multiple times. The elegant appearance of the waterfall and the surrounding nature offers a sight worth seeing. Other attractions include the 80-meter-long suspension bridge "Kami no Iwa-bashi" at the entrance of the valley and the solemn "Dakigaeri Shrine," which is surrounded by ancient cedar trees.