The granite rock faces in the gorge exhibit unique vertical jointing caused by cooling during the Cretaceous period.
The Senga-taki Waterfall drops 30 meters over a sheer granite cliff face.
The gorge serves as a habitat for Japanese serow, a goat-antelope native to Japan.
Local artisans in the gorge area specialize in crystal and gemstone carving, reflecting the historical mining of quartz in the surrounding mountains.
The shape of the 'Iwa-no-hana' rock is often compared to a cliffside flower, serving as one of the gorge's most famous natural monuments.
Shosenkyo is a designated Special Place of Scenic Beauty located within the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park in Yamanashi Prefecture. The gorge was carved by the Arakawa River through granite rock, resulting in unique formations and deep ravines spanning approximately 4 kilometers. It is widely recognized for its vibrant autumn foliage, which typically peaks in early to mid-November. The hiking trail follows the river from the Nagatoro Bridge to the Senga-taki Waterfall. The area features a concentration of rare rock formations such as the Tengu-iwa, a large boulder formation resembling a long-nosed goblin. A cable car operates at the upper end of the gorge, providing panoramic views of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu area. The gorge entrance is marked by the Shosenkyo Bridge, a steel arch bridge constructed in 1925. The area remains a significant geological site showcasing distinctive erosion patterns in the Japanese granite batholith.
The Senga-taki Waterfall basin for the best vantage point of the water hitting the granite rocks.
Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip as the trail surface is uneven and can be slippery near the river.
Carry a light windbreaker even in summer, as the gorge floor stays significantly cooler than the surrounding city.
Start your hike at the bottom of the gorge and walk upward to experience the most impressive geological features in sequence.
Attempting to walk the entire length in flip-flops or open-toed sandals; ignoring the weather warnings during heavy rain.
The ropeway service may be suspended during high wind conditions or severe weather events.
Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile moss and vegetation growing on the granite boulders; do not collect stones or plants.
