Autumn Foliage at Naruko Gorge

About this event

Naruko Gorge, located in Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, is a canyon carved by the Otani River over many years, with columnar jointed cliffs exceeding 100 meters in height stretching like folding screens for about 2 kilometers. Renowned as Tohoku's premier autumn foliage spot, oak, beech, and Japanese maple trees grow densely in the deeply carved valley from mid-October to early November each year, turning into vivid reds and yellows. The coloration changes from moment to moment depending on the angle at which sunlight enters the bottom of the gorge; in the morning, the leaves appear to blaze as light shines through them, while in the afternoon, the sunlight illuminates the rock surfaces, highlighting the contrast between red and white. Coloring begins from the higher elevations, and at peak season, the entire gorge dyed in three colors—orange, crimson, and yellow—is truly a spectacular sight. From the observation deck near the rest house developed along the gorge, you can overlook the autumn foliage spreading out as if bordering the cliffs while gazing down into the approximately 60-meter-deep valley. Walking further along the trail, you can enjoy a corridor of brocade autumn colors continuing deep into the valley alongside the sound of the mountain stream. Staying at an inn in Naruko Onsen allows you to experience the luxury of having the quiet morning mist-covered gorge and autumn leaves all to yourself. Multiple parking lots are available along National Route 47, but traffic congestion becomes severe during peak times, making an early morning visit essential.

Venue

Naruko Gorge

13-5 Hoshinuma, Naruko-onsen, Osaki, Miyagi 989-6832