Mugenkyo Gorge

Nestled between Kaneyama Town and Mishima Town in Fukushima Prefecture, Mugenkyo Gorge (霧幻峡) is a mystical valley shrouded in river mist during the early mornings and evenings of summer. Its ethereal beauty inspired its name, “Mugenkyo,” which translates to “Mist Phantom Gorge.” The site of the abandoned village of Misora, deserted about 50 years ago, it is a special place accessible only by the hand-rowed ferry, “Mugenkyo no Watashi.”

The greatest allure of Mugenkyo is the experience of riding the hand-rowed ferry through the mist-laden Tadami River. As you listen to the boatman’s guidance, you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery. The early mornings and evenings from June to September are particularly recommended as they are prone to mist formation. With luck, you might witness the magical moments of the mist clearing and sunlight filtering through.

Crossing to the other side of the river on the Mugenkyo ferry, you can explore the ruins of the former Misora Village. Remnants of the past life remain, including old houses said to have been built 300 years ago and a shrine. Guided tours are also available, offering deeper insights into the village’s history and culture.

The area around Mugenkyo Gorge offers other captivating attractions as well. The Daiichi Tadami River Bridge, a beautiful bridge spanning the Tadami River, is popular among railway enthusiasts and photographers. The Fairy Museum in Kaneyama Town exhibits works related to fairies from both Japan and abroad. Lake Numazawa, with its lakeside campsites and hot springs, is a haven for nature lovers.

Getting there

From Fukushima Station to Mugen Gorge:

Train

Fukushima Station ↓ Tohoku Shinkansen ↓ 14 minutes (Nonstop) Koriyama Station ↓ Ban-Etsusai Line ↓ 1 hour 17 minutes (14 stops) Aizu-Wakamatsu Station ↓ Tadami Line ↓ 1 hour 31 minutes (17 stops) Hayato Station ↓ Walk about 13 minutes ↓ Mugenkyo Hand-rowed Ferry (4,290 yen)

Mugenkyo Hand-rowed Ferry

Hours	7:00 AM – Sunset
Fare	Round trip plan About 45 minutes per reservation (6,000 yen for up to 2 persons, 3,000 yen per person for more than 3 persons) Plan with walking tour Approximately 90 minutes per reservation (8,000 yen for up to 2 persons, 4,000 yen per person for 3 or more persons)
Phone	+81 241-42-7211
Address	19 Hayato, Mishima, Onuma District, Fukushima 969-7406
Official Website	https://www.mugenkyo.info/
Reservation	https://www.mugenkyo.info/reservation/