Shibagoya-Asahigamaru Watershed Road
Shibagoya-Asahigamaru Watershed Road
Begin at the bus stop of the Yorii shopping district, where nostalgic retro townscapes linger. Climb the road along the steep valley, following the Kounedani River upstream until you reach the Amagoi Waterfalls. Continue along the steep mountain trail to reach Higan Temple. After passing through a cedar forest path, pause to relax at the Shibagoya Rest Area. From the summit of Mt. Shibagoya, wind turbines come into view, giving you a true sense of the mountain’s elevation. Walk along the gently sloping ridgeline of Mt. Shibagoya, passing through natural beech and hornbeam forests, and discover clusters of azaleas. After passing through Umenoki Pass and Mt. Takahoko, reach Ookawara Highland via the Asahigamaru summit at 1019 meters, where a 360-degree panoramic view awaits.
Shibagoya-Asahigamaru Watershed Road（33.2km）
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Spots to photograph
If you wish to receive a certificate, please take a photo that includes yourself at the designated photo point for each course.
Nearby sightseeing spots
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1
Amagoi WaterfallsThis is a two-step waterfall, with the larger cascade on the left and the smaller on the right. This iconic site is listed among Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls. The smaller falls drop 45 meters, tumbling over three ledges into the basin below. Along the way, you'll pass five other waterfalls, including Uguisu Falls and Momiji Falls on the left, so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of cascading water as you walk this rugged, refreshing trail. This waterfall enshrines the deities Dragon King and Acala. In times of drought, villagers performed rain prayers here, clad in straw raincoats and hats, beating drums and bells, and dancing before the falls.
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2
Higan TempleIn autumn, this temple is blanketed in vibrant red maple leaves. It sits in a quiet, secluded spot at an elevation of 700 meters. This site is believed to have once been part of the Yamataikoku Kingdom. Deities such as Senju Kannon and Amaterasu Omikami are said to have been enshrined here since ancient times. It is also revered as a guardian deity of silkworm raising.
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Shibagoya Rest AreaThis rest area sits at an elevation of 1,249 meters near the summit of Mt. Shibagoya. Nearby, around 20 hectares of precious natural forest remain, including beech and hornbeam groves. Plants such as Nikko fir and evergreen azaleas can be seen along the ridge.
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Ookawara HighlandThis highland area stretches east from the vicinity of the Asahigamaru summit, offering uninterrupted views all the way to the Kii Channel on clear days. Around 30,000 hydrangeas burst into bloom in early July. Village-run pastures, clusters of azalea flowers, and other features add to the many highlights of this area.
