Hello, fellow travel lovers!
This time, I'm bringing you an adventure in Kizetsu Gorge, located in Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture.
This spot is packed with natural beauty, and it was truly one surprise after another!
Arriving at Kizetsu Gorge’s picture-perfect spot: Takimibashi Bridge!
15 km and 23 minutes by car from Toretore Market, and we first arrived at Takimibashi Bridge.
Across the road from the bridge, there’s a public restroom and parking spaces for about 5 to 6 cars.
Beneath the bridge, massive boulders are scattered around, and their overwhelming presence is truly impressive.
After a short walk, we came upon Fudo Waterfall. The air is filled with refreshing negative ions from the falls!
The air somehow feels extra refreshing and crisp (haha).
Head towards the white building on the right side of the waterfall.
The incredibly powerful Fudo Myo-o!
And right above the hall dedicated to Fudo Myo-o near the waterfall, there’s a massive boulder resting on top!
What surprised me even more was finding a huge beehive right in the middle of that boulder!!
Thankfully, there were no bees buzzing around, so I breathed a sigh of relief.
Once inside the hall, there's another massive boulder looming overhead! It feels like the ceiling is about to jut out and crash down!
And the waterfall visible from the window is even more breathtaking up close.
I couldn't help but be amazed at how they managed to build a structure in such a place.
Magaibutsu: The Three Carved Stone Buddhas（まがいさんそんだいせきぶつ）
The Three Carved Stone Buddhas, this is another must-see spot! The scale is truly impressive!
Especially the Amida Buddha sitting right in the middle, towering at an impressive 7.3 meters high!
In fact, this is about half the size of the famous Great Buddha of Nara.
The climb up here was definitely worth it!
However, there’s a key caution point: there are some pretty slippery spots along the way.
And if you happen to slip... there's absolutely nothing to grab onto, making it a thrilling course (haha).
So, be careful
But once you get past the thrill, an awe-inspiring view of the Three Carved Stone Buddhas awaits you. This is something you definitely don’t want to miss!
Returned to the entrance and followed the arrow for the observation point.
Flowing next to it is the crystal-clear Aizu River. Just when I thought, 'Maybe I can go down there,' a sign warned, 'It's dangerous, don't do it.' Thanks, sign! Safety first (haha).
The legend of "Giant Footprints"
According to an old legend, the giant Oobito sat on Mt. Takao and tried to wash his feet in Tanabe Bay, placing one foot on this rock. And here’s the footprint! ...Though, isn’t it a bit small? Turns out the giant had surprisingly small feet (haha).
The view from the observation point
Standing at the viewpoint, you can see both Takimibashi Bridge and the Three Carved Stone Buddhas in one sweeping view, and the sheer grandeur took my breath away.
Summary
Kizetsu Gorge is a breathtaking spot where you can truly feel the power of nature. With massive rocks, waterfalls, Fudo Myo-o, and even the legendary footprint, it’s packed with sights and was an absolute joy to explore!
Duration of stay at Kizetsukyo Gorge: 30 to 40 minutes
