- 2022.11.01
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Up for a challenge? Visit Japan’s most secluded autumn spot
If you love a good adventure, Kochi might be a great destination, because it is home to what some people affectionately call “Japan’s most secluded autumn foliage spot”. The place in question is Kuroson Gorge, which is about a 4 hour-drive from Kochi City into the deep mountains. Up for the challenge? Come follow me on my journey!
I set out early on a crisp autumn morning with my adventurous spirit ignited. I took my time, feeling brave and bold as I traversed the narrow mountain roads, particularly during the last portion of the drive (cue Indiana Jones theme song). After following a seemingly hand-etched wooden sign (which is when you know you’re heading off the beaten path), I arrive
The Kuroson River is among the most pristine of the tributaries flowing into the mighty Shimanto River. Walking along the forested trail of primeval beech trees to reach the gorge, the air gets cooler and my spirit becomes lighter. The fall foliage is reflected in the clear-as-crystal waters, and I marvel at the stunning vistas around me. I lingered to take photos in many different places, but I think my favorite spot was being on the Jinden Bridge, which affords a breathtaking view of bright red leaves around the river below
Here's a tip! Being so remote, there's nowhere in the vicinity to pick up food so make sure to pack your own. Also, there's no cell phone service, which might sound like an inconvenience at first, but I find it an absolute blessing. No messages, emails, or calls to distract from the serenity...it's just you and dazzling autumn views
Today, I came well-prepared with simple salt-flavored onigiri (rice balls) and a bright red apple that matches the leaves perfectly. A wooden pavilion with a bench provided an ideal place to sit and enjoy my solo picnic
After a leisurely lunch, I sat and soaked in the silence for a while longer. Was it worth the effort to get here? Oh my...the answer is an unequivocal YES!
Learn more about Kuroson Gorge: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10055
I set out early on a crisp autumn morning with my adventurous spirit ignited. I took my time, feeling brave and bold as I traversed the narrow mountain roads, particularly during the last portion of the drive (cue Indiana Jones theme song). After following a seemingly hand-etched wooden sign (which is when you know you’re heading off the beaten path), I arrive
The Kuroson River is among the most pristine of the tributaries flowing into the mighty Shimanto River. Walking along the forested trail of primeval beech trees to reach the gorge, the air gets cooler and my spirit becomes lighter. The fall foliage is reflected in the clear-as-crystal waters, and I marvel at the stunning vistas around me. I lingered to take photos in many different places, but I think my favorite spot was being on the Jinden Bridge, which affords a breathtaking view of bright red leaves around the river below
Here's a tip! Being so remote, there's nowhere in the vicinity to pick up food so make sure to pack your own. Also, there's no cell phone service, which might sound like an inconvenience at first, but I find it an absolute blessing. No messages, emails, or calls to distract from the serenity...it's just you and dazzling autumn views
Today, I came well-prepared with simple salt-flavored onigiri (rice balls) and a bright red apple that matches the leaves perfectly. A wooden pavilion with a bench provided an ideal place to sit and enjoy my solo picnic
After a leisurely lunch, I sat and soaked in the silence for a while longer. Was it worth the effort to get here? Oh my...the answer is an unequivocal YES!
Learn more about Kuroson Gorge: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10055
