Yamanashi Prefecture may be famous for Mt. Fuji, but Shosenkyo, a gorge in the same prefecture, is another popular spot worth spending some time exploring. The gorge’s clear streams, huge and unique granite rocks and towering cliffs draw many visitors each year.

At the entrance of the walking trail towards Shosenkyo, the first thing that caught my eye was the Sengataki waterfall with its 30-meter-high water drop. Despite the 35-degree Celsius temperatures when I visited, the abundant water splashing made me feel cool and relaxed.

Along the trail, I had a view of the tall, strange rock formations sitting in the raging river. Looking up at the cliffs rising over 150 meters above, I could imagine how the rocks in the river were once part of those cliffs. Throughout the area there were many falling rock warning signs, but if such a huge rock fell from above, there would be nothing that anyone on the trail could do. So, it’s surprising that this area, also a sacred power spot, was once a place where many Shinto priests climbed the rocky terrain (falling rocks and all) to reach the summit.

From a bridge over the valley, a beautiful landscape emulating an ink brush painting spread across the rocky mountain adorned with pine trees and a glittering stream. As I passed through a tunnel formed by overlapping rocks, I noticed that the tips of the two rocks were not touching. These ancient stones did not form perfect arches but were perfectly balanced. Some of these rocks have names depending on what shape they form, like “fur seal rock.” It was fun to imagine names from the shapes I could make out.

To get to Shosenkyo, it takes about 1.5 hours by express train from JR Shinjuku Station to Kofu Station and then about 30 minutes by car from there. This time I rented a car, but it is also possible to take a bus from Kofu Station. There are many sharp curves on the way, so I recommend bringing motion sickness medicine if necessary.

I parked my car at the free parking lot downstream. From the lot, it will take about a 30-minute walk, but there is also a bus that can take you upstream. I recommend taking the bus up, then taking the walk back so you can enjoy the scenery.

You can select a variety of walking courses depending on your stamina and time. This time I chose a 2.1 km-long course which takes about 30 minutes to complete. If you have time, however, I recommend the ropeway to the top of the mountain. Though I visited in the summer, the fall is an especially great time to visit since the autumn colors cover the mountain then. After trekking the gorge trail, you can enjoy fruit and wine from Yamanashi Prefecture at restaurants near Kofu Station.

Shosenkyo will be great option for those who want to take a short trip outside of Tokyo to cool off and enjoy the majestic nature.

Things to know

• Location: Kamiobinacho, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-0083

• Entrance fee: Free

• Parking: https://www.shosenkyo-kankoukyokai.com/parking.html

• Website: https://www.shosenkyo-kankoukyokai.com/

• Ropeway information: https://kofu-tourism.com/en/see-and-do/13

Camp Fuji