Terihakyō Gorge (Terihakyō)

Terihakyō Gorge in Minakami, Gunma Prefecture, is a secluded spot packed with natural beauty. Often called the Oirase of the Kanto region, it’s a valley where 11 waterfalls of various sizes are scattered over Approx. 5 km.

From mid to late October, during the fall foliage season, the trees turn red and yellow, creating a captivating landscape. Haiku poet Akiko Mizuhara, active in the 1900s, even praised it as “Japan’s best autumn leaves.” Many visitors come every year expecting this scenery, making it a famous autumn destination.

The best way to enjoy this area is to drive slowly and take in the scenery. There are no maintained parking lots or walking paths, so it’s best viewed from your car. Among the waterfalls, “Tsuzumi Falls,” the 7th from downstream, is easily accessible from the road. You can enjoy the contrast between the waterfall spray and the fall colors. Deeper into Terihakyō Gorge, “Okutone Suigen no Mori” spreads out, and it’s also recommended to enjoy the autumn leaves along with the primeval beech forest.

It’s an excellent spot where you can fully experience the charm of untouched nature.