Art-filled autumn at Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel!

Hello, fellow travel lovers!

This time, I’m taking you to the Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel — a must-see stop on my autumn trip to Niigata! 🍁

It was mid-October 2025 — usually peak autumn foliage season… but this year, the leaves were taking their time. Still, the blue sky and lush green scenery were absolutely refreshing!

Tickets were priced at the high-season rate of 1,200 yen.

Since it’s a reservation-only period, I recommend booking online in advance.
(*Same-day tickets may be available depending on the season!*)

🚗 Starting from the second parking lot!

I was directed to the second parking lot — if there’s space in the first one, they’ll guide you there instead.

Parked the car along the gorge at the second lot — time to set off on the adventure!

Right in front of me stretched the stunning contrast of the crystal-clear Kiyotsu River and the bright blue sky.

Along the way, a few modest little shops lined the path.

After about a 7-minute walk along the trail, I finally reached the tunnel entrance! ✨

💡 The tunnel’s info is actually written right on the wall!?

The first thing that surprises you once you step inside is this.

Instead of regular info panels, the “overview” and “layout map” are drawn directly on the tunnel walls!

And as you keep walking, you start to notice something.

Wait… the light colors are changing!

The lights shift little by little—blue, green, then orange.

🏞　First Viewpoint | Amazed by the Columnar Rocks of Kiyotsu Gorge

After walking about 100 meters, I reached the first viewing spot.

From here, you can get a close-up view of Kiyotsu Gorge’s famous columnar rock formations.

The rock face looks like a gigantic pipe organ — absolutely breathtaking!

Nature’s artwork is just incredible…

🚻 Second Viewpoint | An Unexpected “Toilet Art”!?!

Next up is a truly unique space.

The walls are covered in striped patterns, with a bulging dome in the center.

Believe it or not, it’s actually a restroom! (Yep, really!) 😆

From the inside, you can apparently see through to the outside — truly an *artistic toilet*!

It’s currently closed to the public, but I totally wanted to try it…! Though honestly, I doubt I could’ve relaxed in there anyway 😅

Even just seeing it in photos leaves a big impression!

💧 Third Viewpoint | The “Droplet” Art Space

さらに100mほど進むと、丸い“しずく”の形をしたアートスペースに。

It’s so unique you might think it’s a Yayoi Kusama piece, but it’s actually inspired by the shape of a falling water droplet.

What you’ll see reflected is your own face—kind of like a Munch painting! And since the mirror behind you shows the back of your head, you can even do a quick style check… though, fair warning, it’s a bit distorted 😂

🌈 The Grand Finale! The Light Cave (Panorama Station)

Alright, here comes the main event!

Heading to the very end of the tunnel — the stunning Light Cave (Panorama Station).

The gorge reflects perfectly on the water’s surface, creating a dreamy, almost unreal world ✨

The edges are shallow, so if you walk carefully, you won’t get wet — but one wrong step and you’ll be taking a surprise dip! 💦

Your face won’t show in the reflection, so go ahead and make funny faces 😆 — strike a pose and you’re guaranteed an Insta-worthy shot!

Since lots of photographers gather here, take turns and enjoy the moment together 📸

☕ Once you step out of the tunnel, take a deep, relaxing breath

As soon as you step outside, the fresh air feels absolutely amazing.

I stopped by a cozy café nearby and took a little coffee break.

Then I wandered into the souvenir shop to check out some local goodies—and ended up staying longer than I planned!

The Kiyotsukyo Tunnel scores full marks for views, adventure, and photo ops! ✨

Next time, I’d love to come back when the autumn colors are at their peak.

The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip! – TabiJun
＊＊TabiJun＊＊