Iya・Oboke・Ikeda

Oboke Gorge Cruise

The majestic flow of the Yoshinogawa River, which runs through Tokushima Prefecture from west to east, has created beautiful gorges in the valley. The V-shaped valley of the Oboke Gorge, with its steep slopes and rock walls approaching from both banks, has been known as a difficult place to pass through. The rocks on both banks of the Oboke Gorge are said to have been created 200 to 100 million years ago. While listening to the boatman's guide, the boat will take you on an 8-kilometer tour of the canyon, where you can enjoy the magnificent scenery and the mystery of nature.

Highlights

1

Oboke Gorge

Both banks are rocks called crystalline schist. You can see beautiful rocks and V-shaped valleys that were formed when the area was once an ocean floor. This is a valuable place where visitors can learn about the formation of the Japanese archipelago.
2

Spring in the Valley

You can feel spring when you see Hachisuka cherry blossoms and Someiyoshino cherry trees blooming around the Oboke Station. Additionally, beautiful iwatsutsuji (azaleas) can be seen on the rock face of the ravine.
3

Carp Streamers (Koinobori)

From March to May, approximately 100 carp streamers are displayed over the river. They look as if they are swimming in a beautiful valley, delighting passengers on sightseeing boats. Many photographers come to see the carp streamers moving in the wind.

Details

Kotatsu Boat

During winter, the "Kotatsu Boat" (a kotatsu is a low, wooden table frame covered by heavy blanket used in the winter) is in operation for a limited time. While warming yourself with a kotatsu, you can see the beauty of the snow-covered valley up close.

Roadside Station Oboke

Here you can find a "Yokai Yashiki" (ghost house) which exhibits yokai that are well-known in this area. Various events such as Yokai Night Walks are held here, and there is also a footbath for visitors to use (only on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays).