Shosenkyo Gorge

Shosenkyo Gorge (昇仙峡), a designated Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument of Japan, is a picturesque gorge located in the northern part of Kofu City in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. It is renowned for its stunning scenery, particularly during the autumn season when the foliage transforms into a breathtaking display of vibrant colors. The gorge was carved out over millennia by the Arakawa River (荒川), which winds its way through the valley, creating a dramatic landscape of towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and unique rock formations.

Visitors can explore the gorge in various ways. The Shosenkyo Ropeway offers a convenient and scenic way to ascend to a vantage point, providing panoramic views of the gorge and the surrounding mountains. For those who prefer to explore on foot, there is a well-maintained hiking trail that spans approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and takes about two hours to complete. The trail winds along the Arakawa River, passing by several waterfalls, including the iconic 30-meter-high Senga Falls (仙娥滝), and numerous interestingly shaped rocks, some of which resemble animals like monkeys and turtles.

In addition to its natural beauty, Shosenkyo Gorge is also home to various attractions, such as the Shadow Picture Museum, which showcases unique shadow art, and the Kanazakura Shrine, dedicated to the god of match-making. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) and savor local cuisine in the nearby town of Kofu.

Shosenkyo Gorge is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking to experience the captivating beauty of the Japanese Alps. Whether you choose to hike through the gorge, ride the ropeway, or simply admire the scenery from afar, Shosenkyo Gorge promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.

Getting there

By Train and Bus

1. Take the JR Chuo Line Limited Express “Azusa” from Shinjuku Station to Kofu Station (about 1 hour 20 minutes)
2. From Kofu Station, take a Yamanashi Kotsu Bus bound for Shosenkyo

• To Shosenkyo-guchi: About 30 minutes, 710 yen
• To Green Line Shosenkyo: About 40 minutes, 1000 yen
• To Shosenkyo Takiue (last stop): About 50 minutes, 1090 yen

Buses run every 1-2 hours from Kofu Station.

By Highway Bus

From Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kofu Station: About 2 hours 10 minutes

By Car

• About 1 hour from Hachioji IC to Futaba Smart IC
• About 20 minutes from Futaba Smart IC to Shosenkyo (Total about 1 hour 20 minutes)

During winter (December to March), buses only operate to Shosenkyo-guchi. During this period, an on-demand small bus runs from Shosenkyo-guchi to the ropeway (Reservation required by phone, 300 yen per ride).

Shosenkyo Ropeway

Hours	April to November ・Up line / 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ・Down line / – 5:30 PM December to March ・Up line / 9:00 AM – 4:10 PM ・Down line / – 4:30 PM
Fare	One way ・ Adults: 700 yen ・ Children: 350 yen ・ Age 3 and under: Free Round trip ・ Adults: 1,300 yen ・ Children: 650 yen ・ Age 3 and under: Free
Official Website	http://www.shousenkyo-r.jp/

Details (Shosenkyo Gorge)

Hours	Open 24 hours
Admission	Free
Phone	+81-551-35-2421
Address	Shosenkyo, Kofu, Yamanashi Prefecture 400-1213, Japan