Teninkyo Gorge: Shichifuku-iwa
Towering Pillars of Stone: The Sacred Sentinels of an Ancient Volcanic Gorge
Discover the dramatic beauty of Shichifuku-iwa (Seven Lucky Gods Rock), seven majestic pillars shaped by 34,000 years of volcanic activity and river erosion in Daisetsuzan National Park.
Teninkyo Gorge lies on the southeastern slopes of Daisetsuzan National Park along the upper Chubetsu River, and has been a renowned scenic spot for over a century. Its landscape was formed by a massive eruption in the Daisetsuzan range about 34,000 years ago. As pyroclastic flows cooled, they created "columnar joints"—regular, pillar-like rock formations—later shaped over millennia by river erosion.
Among the formations along the Chubetsu River, Shichifuku-iwa stands out, with seven stone pillars rising toward the sky. It is often paired with nearby Namida-iwa (Tear Rock), a massive monolith where water trickles down like falling tears.
The area is especially popular with photographers in early October, when autumn colors transform the gorge. The contrast between rugged rock walls and vivid red and yellow foliage leaves a lasting impression. Visiting Teninkyo offers a chance to experience nature’s vast artistry, shaped by the timeless interplay of volcanic fire and flowing water.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒071-1473
- Address
- 北海道上川郡東川町天人峡
- Telephone Number
- 0166-82-3761（Higashikawa Tourism Association）
- Closed
- Closed in winter
- Car Park
- 20 spaces, free
- Directions
- ●By car: About 45 minutes from Asahikawa Airport
●By car: About 70 minutes from Hokkaido Expwy Asahikawa Kita IC - Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
