Hisui Gorge is a beautiful gorge stretching approximately 12 kilometers from Hichiso Town to Shirakawa Town in Kamo District, Gifu Prefecture. Its rugged cliffs, rushing waters, and extraordinary rock formations create a spectacular landscape that resembles a vast, mysterious sculpture carved by nature. In June, visitors can also see rock azaleas blooming with vivid red flowers among the rocky slopes.
The area surrounding Hisui Gorge forms part of the river park within Hida-Kisogawa Quasi-National Park, which encompasses the Hida River basin.
Of particular interest is the section of the gorge extending approximately two kilometers upstream from Kamiaso Bridge, located about 600 meters east of Kamiaso Station on the JR Takayama Main Line. The riverbed here contains numerous naturally formed potholes in the bedrock. Known as the Pothole Group of Hisui Gorge, this remarkable geological formation has been designated a National Natural Monument of Japan.
This area is also called Rock Garden. In early summer, visitors can admire rock azaleas blooming across the rugged stone surfaces, adding splashes of color to the dramatic scenery.
The geology around Hisui Gorge belongs to the Kamiaso Unit of the Mino Belt. Radiolarian fossils dating from the Triassic to Jurassic periods of the Mesozoic Era have been discovered in chert pebbles collected in the area.
Even more remarkably, the oldest gneiss found among the riverbed conglomerates is estimated to be approximately two billion years old. These ancient rocks offer a fascinating glimpse into the Earth’s distant geological past.
A viewing platform provides an excellent vantage point for appreciating the gorge. Visitors can also descend a short flight of steps from the parking area to get a closer look at the Pothole Group of Hisui Gorge, where numerous potholes of different sizes are scattered across the riverbed.
The viewing platform and parking area are on relatively flat ground, but the area beyond the steps is rocky and uneven. Wearing comfortable, sturdy footwear, such as walking shoes or sneakers, is recommended for a safer visit.