Kitakami River runs through Iwate north to south and branches into a tributary, Satetsu River, where the gorge stands tall. Water erosion created this 50m-tall, 100m-long bluff dotted with bizarre rocks, caves and waterfalls. The divine scene is counted as one of the 100 Scenic Places in Japan and National Historical Spot and Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument.
If you wish to see the mighty scenery from on the water, try a boat ride which goes up and down the river in 90 minutes. A boatman steers the boat with a bamboo stick, singing Geibi folk song which is a local specialty of the Geibi Gorge. Savor the fresh green in spring, wisteria in early summer, fall foliage and snowscape in winter.
At the turning point, you can get off the boat and look around the Lion’s Nose Rock and the Gorge’s namesake, Big Geibi Rock, where you can try your luck - if you throw Undama (lucky stones) to the opposite side of the river into the Wishing Hole, your wish is said to come true. You can choose from the ten kinds of lucky stones such as destiny, longevity, or fortune (100 yen/5).
Tea ceremony boats, 16th-night concert boats, foot warmer boats and other seasonal events are held. Call and find that out before you come.
Highlights
-
The divine scene is counted as one of the 100 Scenic Places in Japan.
-
Try a boat ride to see the gorge.
-
At the turning point, you can get off the boat and look around.
-
Try your luck at the Big Geibi Rock.
-
A variety of seasonal events are held.