Sounkyo Gorge
A hidden sanctuary called Kamuy Mintara - the playground of the gods
A majestic gorge where columnar jointed cliffs stretch for about 24km along the upper Ishikari River at the northern foot of the Daisetsuzan mountains.
Called "Kamuy Mintara" (playground of the gods) by the Ainu people, this land preserves its primeval appearance unchanged since ancient times. Originally called "Sounkyo," meaning "river with many waterfalls" in the Ainu language, this valley was named "Sounkyo" by the writer Keizuki Omachi who visited in 1921. The vertically towering rock walls reach heights of about 200m, with countless waterfalls cascading down the rock faces in white spray.
From the surrounding primeval forest drifts the fragrance of trees changing with the seasons, while the roar of waterfalls and birdsong echo through the valley. Deep in the gorge, quality hot springs bubble forth, gently healing the minds and bodies of visitors. In winter, an ice waterfall festival is held, where illuminated ice art creates a fantastical world. Using the Kurodake Ropeway, you can view the entire Kamuy Mintara from the summit at 1,984m elevation.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- With friends
- Girls' trip
- Couple
- Family
- Travel style
- Lake and marsh, waterfall, pond, dam
- Mountain, ridge, plateau, marshland, canyon
- Red leaves, scenic spots, observation platforms
- Natural scenery, spectacular views
- Travel Inspiration
- Enjoy spectacular views
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒078-1701
- Address
- 北海道上川町層雲峡
- Telephone Number
- 01658-5-3350（Sounkyo Information Center）
- Directions
- ●By bus: About 30 minutes from JR Kamikawa Station, get off at “Sounkyo” and walk About 5 minutes
●By car: About 25 minutes from Asahikawa-Monbetsu Expwy Kamikawa Sounkyo IC - Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
