Omogo Gorge

The Omogo River rises from the snow and rainfall of Mt. Ishizuchi. In Ehime, the river is called the Omogo River and when it enters Kōchi, it becomes the Niyodo River. Its famous in Japan for its crystal-clear water and turquoise hue. In Kuma Highland, it passes through the Omogo Gorge, an area of large and interestingly shaped rock formations of vertical and horizontal slabs.

At the trailhead near the carpark there’s the Omogo Sangaku Museum with displays about the flora, fauna and fossils found in Omogo. A path winds up the gorge for several kilometres, and there are numerous side routes, including a path up to the Kamehara lookout which affords a panoramic view of the gorge.

In summer, Omogo is several degrees cooler than the cities of Shikoku providing a pleasant respite from the heat. A dip in the cold water is very refreshing. From November, the autumn leaves are particularly dramatic.

There’s a Road Station on the route leading to Omogo and this is a good place to eat before visiting the gorge. There’s also a restaurant in the gorge itself.

Information

Name in Japanese: 面河渓
Pronunciation: omogo kei
Address: Omogo Gorge, Wakayama, Kumakogen, Kamiukena District, Ehime 791-1710