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Gorge · Miyoshi, Tokushima
Oboke Gorge
An approximately 8 km stretch of the Yoshino River between pale rock cliffs, travelled on a leisurely boat trip; just downstream, the Koboke gorge has the rafting rapids.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Oboke Gorge in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Discover
About Oboke Gorge
The Oboke Gorge is a stretch of the Yoshino River in southern Miyoshi where green-blue water flows between cliffs of pale, crystalline schist polished by the current. The river cuts through Shikoku’s mountains for about 8 km, and the rocks show folded layers formed millions of years ago, designated a natural monument.
The most common way to see the gorge is by boat, departing from a landing beside the road and covering about 4 km round-trip in roughly 30 minutes. The boats are covered and calm, piloted by boatmen who explain the rock formations. You can see the rocks up close, with vegetation on the slopes above.
Downriver, the Koboke Gorge has stronger rapids and is one of Japan’s rafting centers, with local companies running descents from spring through autumn. Roadside viewpoints, such as the one by the statue of the little boy urinating on a cliff, show the gorge’s height. The wooden Oboke Station is nearby, and the Lapis Oboke rock museum along the road explains the geology and the valley’s creature legends.
The national road follows the river and connects the gorges to the entrance of the Iya Valley, making Oboke the natural first stop on the trip. Riverfront onsen hotels have outdoor baths with views of the gorge.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About a 30-minute boat ride; 1 to 2 hours including the viewpoints and the museum.
Best time
From April to November; at the end of October and start of November the foliage usually colours the slopes. With the river high after heavy rains, boats may not run; confirm in advance.
How to get there
The boat landing is on the national highway, about a 20-minute walk from Oboke Station, or a few minutes by taxi. By car there is parking.
Tip
Take the boat in the morning and then continue to the vine bridge. To see Koboke from above, stop at the boy’s viewpoint on the old valley road.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Oboke Gorge
How long is the Oboke boat ride?
About 30 minutes, by covered boat, on a round trip of roughly 4 km through the gorge.
What’s the difference between Oboke and Koboke?
They are two stretches of the Yoshino River gorge. Oboke has calmer waters, with boat rides; Koboke, downstream, has rapids used for rafting.
How do I get to Oboke by train?
The Nanpu limited express, between Okayama and Kochi, stops at Oboke Station. The boat landing is about a 20-minute walk away.
Can you go rafting on the Yoshino River with no experience?
Yes, local companies take beginners, providing equipment and instruction, on sections chosen according to the river’s level. The season usually runs from spring through autumn.
Beyond the guide
