Artwork by Ma Yansong / MAD Architects “Tunnel of Light” (A work from the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennial)
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Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel
A photo-worthy mashup of beauty and art at this one-of-a-kind destination.
Kiyotsu Gorge is a site of impeccable beauty, ranked as one of Japan’s “Three Great Gorges”. Carved by flows of the Kiyotsu River, the steep 100-meter high cliffs give way to stark rugged rock faces against emerald-green waters. The landscape’s unique look is thanks to magma flows some 5 million years ago that sculpted through all the drama and grandeur of natural uplifting and erosion.
Step up and feast your eyes from the recently renovated Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel, complete with three viewing points designed by Chinese architect Ma Yansong and MAD Architects as part of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennial, the world’s largest international art festival, held in Tokamachi and Tsunan Town, Niigata Prefecture. The tunnel's final viewing spot, “Panorama Station”, is a spot like no other, bringing together all the best of natural beauty and art at this hot spot that just begs to be photographed. The view from inside Panorama Station changes with each season: lush green in spring and summer, fiery reds and oranges in autumn, and a black-and-white, ink-painting-like scene in winter due to the snow.
Kiyotsu Gorge is also known for its hot springs and inns. The second floor of the entrance facility features a footbath using spring water that emerges within the tunnel, offering a relaxing experience with a view.
Highlights
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Kiyotsu Gorge, one of Japan's Three Great Gorges, as the Kiyotsu River flows between steep cliffs.
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The renovated Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel is always a-buzz thanks to photogenic views.
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A unique space crafted by artists to blend beauty and art.
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Seasonal landscapes from "Panorama Station”, each offering a distinct view.
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Also a hot spring area, with onsen inns and a footbath available.
Photos
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![The striking contrast between the rugged rock faces and the emerald-green clear stream is breathtaking.
Photo provided courtesy of Tokamachi City Tourist Association]()
The striking contrast between the rugged rock faces and the emerald-green clear stream is breathtaking. Photo provided courtesy of Tokamachi City Tourist Association
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![The "Panorama Station" in the Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel is a prime spot for capturing photogenic photos.
Artwork by Ma Yansong / MAD Architects “Tunnel of Light” (A work from the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennial)]()
The "Panorama Station" in the Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel is a prime spot for capturing photogenic photos. Artwork by Ma Yansong / MAD Architects “Tunnel of Light” (A work from the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennial)
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![In winter, the snow adds an extra layer of mystical beauty.
Artwork by Ma Yansong / MAD Architects “Tunnel of Light” (A work from the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennial)]()
In winter, the snow adds an extra layer of mystical beauty. Artwork by Ma Yansong / MAD Architects “Tunnel of Light” (A work from the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennial)
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
English, Traditional Chinese and Simplified Chinese pamphlets available.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
Yes, it is.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
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Are there restrooms available?
Yes, there are.
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Is it possible to re-enter the premises?
Re-entry is not allowed.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 清津峡渓谷トンネル
- Postal Code
- 949-8433
- Address
- 2119-2 Koidemizunoto, Tokamachi City, Niigata
- Telephone
- 025-763-4800
- Closed
- Open year-round (However, temporary closures may occur due to snowfall or snow accumulation).
- Business Hours
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8:30am - 4:30pm,
Winter season（From December to February）9:00am - 3:30pm - Admission
- Adults 1,000yen, Elementary and junior high school students 400yen
- Access
- From JR Echigo-Yuzawa Station, take the bus bound for Morimiyanohara (about 25 minutes) and get off at the "Kiyotsukyo Iriguchi" bus stop, then walk approximately 30 minutes from the bus stop.
- Credit Cards
- Accepted (available for use at ticket machines)
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)