Geibikei Gorge, Iwate, Japan
I was looking for things to do in Iwate Prefecture and found Geibikei Gorge (猊鼻渓). This stunning gorge is just outside Hiraizumi, about a 500-meter walk from Geibikei Station.
I started my trip from Sendai, taking the Shinkansen and then a local train. There’s also a bus-and-train option, but that takes about three hours. I arrived at the boat tour entrance about 20 minutes before opening. While waiting, I explored the area and saw the flat-bottomed boat I’d be riding.
Only two other people joined the 90-minute tour, since the busiest times are spring and autumn. Even without the seasonal colors, the scenery was beautiful. The boatman shared some history of the gorge and pointed out landmarks as he navigated with a long pole.
At the turning point, we got off the boat to look around. There’s even a spot where you can throw small “lucky stones” across the river. We spent about 30 minutes there enjoying the view.
On the way back, the boatman sang a traditional Japanese folk song. I wished I understood the lyrics. We also saw more boats heading out, and I was glad I’d taken the first boat — being almost alone on the water made it a unique experience.
Route Detail
Distance: 1km out & back from Geibikei Station
Total elevation gain: 0m
Time: 0h 12m (total time with breaks 0h 00m)
Difficulty: Easy
Boat Ride Time: 90m
Transportation & Miscellaneous
Train from Sendai Station to Geibikei Station ¥4480
Geibikei Gorge River Cruise ¥1800
Food ¥686
