Oni no Shitaburui Gorge 鬼の舌震

Water rushing down from the imposing mountains have eroded the rocks in Oni no Shitaburi Gorge into wild, unusual shapes. With names like Crying Demon, Cows Neck and Whale Rock, these boulder formations carry the tales of millennia of natural history.

Take the Maki Line bus from Izumo-Minari Station (12 minutes) or Izumo-Yokota Station (30 minutes) to Oni no Shitaburi.

The two-kilometer main path follows a boardwalk the whole way. The dramatic walkway clings to sheer cliffs and hugs the water's edge below, where the roar of rushing water fills the air. The path is accessible by wheelchair or baby stroller, and suitable for any fitness level.

Several other walking trails offer detours across small bridges to other viewpoints.

Long ago, this area was the estate of the Itohara, a powerful samurai family. Halfway down the walkway along the gorge, a side road leads up one kilometer to their 300-year-old residence with historical displays and gardens, an engaging detour.

Where the valley widens and opens up, walk across a long bridge suspended high above the river, from which you have fantastic views of the mountains of Okuizumo . Waiting for you on the other side of the bridge is a small cafe and restaurant serving local soba noodles, wild boar croquettes, ice cream and other snacks and drinks.